Posted by Sean on January 05, 1997 at 01:43:23:
In Reply to: Tai Chi posted by Jason on January 04, 1997 at 00:49:52:
: Does anyone know much about Tai Chi? I've heard some claims that
: Tai Chi masters have paranormal abilities. For example, one claim
: is that a Tai Chi master can immobilize an attacker simply by pointing
: at him. Naturally, I'm skeptical of these claims.
: I guess if Tai Chi masters did have extraordinary abilities, it may
: not necessarily be a supernatural or spiritual phenomenon. It may be
: some physical effect that we have yet to understand scientifically.
: - Jason
Having wasted a few years now, on and off, on tai chi, I can offer you
my opinion. Tai Chi is a good exercise for elderly people who are
starting to loose their balance. It teaches body awareness, and may
prevent someone from falling and breaking a hip. There is no aerobic
benefit.
As far as developing paranormal abilities, the martial arts is filled
with self-delusion. People trying to transform thenselves into
supermen. I have seen a kung fu "master" get seriously stomped in
a bar fight with a larger person. If this stuff was possible to any
degree, law enforcement and military people would have figured it
out by now.
So save yourself the time, unless you are someone who has trouble
unwinding. If, like me, you are trying to "cultivate a vigorous
spirit", stay well away from it.