Teaching with the Tai Chi Foundation

Perhaps you’ve taken tai chi classes in the past and are curious about becoming a tai chi teacher. Perhaps you are interested in deepening your practice. Or, maybe you’re interested in understanding the background of your Tai Chi Foundation (TCF) teachers.

The TCF is a unique alliance of 30 tai chi schools and over 300 teachers worldwide who have taught tai chi and qigong to thousands of students. We are part of the lineage of our founder, Patrick Watson, and his teacher, renowned tai chi master Professor Cheng Man Ch’ing. For nearly 50 years, TCF has been dedicated to teaching tai chi using Patrick’s distinctive curriculum and signature team-teaching program.

Our mission is to improve health, well-being, and awareness through the study, practice, and teaching of tai chi and qigong. We strive to make these practices accessible to an increasing number of people worldwide.

Our Philosophy

“Success in T’ai Chi Chuan depends on three conditions: correct teaching, natural talent, and perseverance. Of the three, correct teaching (or right method) is of primary importance. When the method is incorrect, or the right method is wrongly taught, no success is attainable even if the student is highly gifted and diligently and conscientiously applies himself. On the other hand, given the right kind of teaching, even if one’s natural talent should be below average, success can be achieved through perseverance.”

-Professor Cheng Man Ch’ing

The TCF Teaching Experience

Many of our teachers share that imparting this centuries-old Chinese art is deeply gratifying. They often recount how their own tai chi journey began decades ago and how they’ve since helped others integrate tai chi’s calm and well-being into their lives.

At TCF, we pride ourselves on offering a consistent tai chi experience across all our schools. Our thoughtfully trained teachers follow a prescribed series of courses and content, allowing students to seamlessly continue their practice at any TCF school worldwide.

Teacher Training Program

For those inspired to share tai chi with others, TCF offers a comprehensive Teacher Training Program. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Preparation: Teaching with TCF starts with studying at one of our schools. If you are not already taking classes with TCF, please visit our School Locationsand Find a Tai Chi Class Page, where you will find links to our online, in-person, and on-demand Teachable classes. TCF retreats are also a great place to start your tai chi practice.
2. Application: After completing several levels of study, interested students may choose to investigate our teacher-training through discussions with their local teachers and a curated application process.
3. Training Process: The training involves a logical step-by-step process guided by TCF teachers and administrators.
4. Teaching Opportunities: Upon completing each level of training, you’ll progress through a series of teaching levels, beginning as a silent observer and ultimately teaching as a senior member of a team. Your local teachers will be able to guide you through this process.
5. Certification: While optional, we encourage all our teachers to pursue TCF certification for official authorization to represent our school.

For more details about becoming a teacher, please visit consult with the teacher(s) you’re studying with.

Teacher Certification

Certification is an additional step that authorizes you to teach at TCF-sponsored trainings and programs at on-site client organizations. If you’ve been trained elsewhere, you’re welcome to apply for certification by providing:

• The source of your teacher training
• A teaching transcript
• Two letters of recommendation

For more information, please visit this page. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Continuing Education

We encourage all TCF teachers to continue developing their practice and teaching skills through:

• International tai chi training weeks
• Biannual online classes led by senior teachers and legacy holders

The Benefits of Tai Chi and Qigong

Tai chi and qigong are mind-body practices that combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intention. Often called “moving meditation,” these practices offer numerous benefits:

• Improved physical well-being
• Enhanced mental relaxation
• Better overall health

For many, tai chi and qigong have become lifelong practices, offering continuous growth and benefits.

Please Join Us!

TCF’s live online courses allow you to participate in guided sessions from the comfort of your home. These virtual classes provide unique opportunities to connect with experienced instructors, ensuring that you receive personalized guidance and feedback. We also present numerous Teachable on-demand, learn-at-your-own-pace classes. Whether you’re a beginner or a dedicated practitioner, these online resources offer a wealth of knowledge to enrich your tai chi and qigong journey.

For those seeking hands-on classes, check out the regular course offerings of TCF’s affiliated local schools.  Over 300 TCF-affiliated instructors teach in 30 cities worldwide.

The Tai Chi Foundation’s mission is to improve health, well-being, and awareness through the study, practice, and teaching of tai chi and qigong by an increasing number of people worldwide. Find a tai chi class in your area or online, become a member, and join TCF in making the world a healthier and more mindful place today.

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By Marina Muhlfriedel & Oliver Herzfeld

Tai Chi Foundation 2024