Tai Chi certification requires formal classes, instructing Tai Chi classes, and passing a written exam. Certification is voluntary but can be beneficial for those who have other related certifications. Most schools require 150 to 2,000 hours of instruction and hands-on experience. Tai Chi centers and instructors offer certification programs, and organizations such as the International Association of Fitness Professionals and the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association offer continuing education classes. Tai Chi certification can expand the scope of classes for those with other fitness certifications.
To earn a certification in one or more of the styles of the Chinese martial art of Tai Chi, or Tai Chi Chuan, you must first take formal Tai Chi classes and then demonstrate your understanding and experience by instructing Tai Chi classes. A candidate for Tai Chi certification may also be required to pass a written exam on the history and health benefits of the art. Approximately 2,000 hours of classes and hands-on experience may be required to qualify for Tai Chi certification offered by a recognized school or master. The certification process is voluntary, however, and is not always necessary to teach Tai Chi, but it can be a good option for those who have already obtained other certifications related to the exercise.
Most schools that offer Tai Chi certification do not have pre-requisites to start face-to-face classes. Study topics include subjects such as the technique, history and philosophy of Tai Chi Chuan, including its martial applications. You must also demonstrate an understanding of the various Tai Chi forms, the ability to execute the movements, postures and applications correctly, and the skills to help beginning students with proper technique and alignment. Additionally, Tai Chi certificate programs can include instruction on how to run your own Tai Chi classes and how to market your own school.
Although the number of hours required to obtain Tai Chi certification varies greatly, most schools require approximately 150 to 2,000 hours of formal instruction and hands-on experience teaching Tai Chi classes to others. More advanced Tai Chi certifications require more hours training and instructing others. Tuition fee for classes varies. You may also have to pay an annual fee to keep your Tai Chi certification active.
Many Tai Chi centers and instructors have websites with information on the details of obtaining certification. To find the program that meets your needs, contact several different schools, compare courses, and get information about the lead instructor’s credentials and experience. Organizations that offer Tai Chi certification and continuing education classes include the International Association of Fitness Professionals, the American Association of Fitness Professionals, and the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association.
Individuals with other types of fitness certifications, such as personal trainer certification, yoga instructor certification, or other martial arts training, often decide to become certified in Tai Chi. This allows these instructors to increase the scope of classes they can offer to the public. As the population ages, more and more people around the world are turning to low-impact Tai Chi for health, fitness and stress reduction. As such, the demand for Tai Chi classes may be increasing.
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