Title: The Complete Illustrated Guide to Tai Chi
Reviewer: The Tai Chi Union for Great Britain

Angus Clark, one of our long-established instructors based in Okehampton, Devon has just released a beautiful new book, The Complete Illustrated Guide to Tai Chi Chuan (CIGTCC).

Following on the heels of their superbly produced range of titles like the Complete Illustrated Guide to Shiatsu and Complete Illustrated Guide to Traditional Chinese Medicine (also by one of our members, Tom Williams from Glasgow) this ambitious publication introduces a new concept of the production of material of Tai Chi Chuan. Presented in large format with stunning illustrations the CIGTCC covers all aspects the keen beginner needs to know about the subject.

Each section is neatly laid out as it gently, but efficiently guides you thought the history, philosophy and psychology of learning and practicing this wonderfully multifaceted art. Whilst the teaching focuses on Angus's interpretation to the Cheng Man-ching style there is much to be gained for the serious beginner and devotees of any style. Angus provides a comprehensive history and background in a clear, comprehensible manner which lays firm foundations to a deeper exploration of the roots of tai chi chuan.

He then goes on to provide an amazing range of introductory, basic exercises which will help the beginner (and the open-minded regular practitioner) understand the quality of movement required for effective training. The section covering the form is superbly illustrated with full colour photographs depicting each movement and the clever use of strobe photography illustrating the transudations.

The latter pages of this massive tome provide a wide range of partner exercises which look quite fun together with a range of 'Tai Chi Experiences from various students. CIGTCC finishes with a brief overview on styles and sound, practical advice on how to find a teacher.

Whilst £18.99 for the hardback may seem expensive for an introductory book on any subject, anyone who is seriously considering taking the first steps towards a tai chi class would do well to invest in little more than the price of three or four classes to gain an insight and understanding that could take many years to acquire."

Title: The Complete Illustrated Guide to Tai Chi
Reviewer: Marsha from Nashville, Tennessee, USA.

This is my favourite tai chi book. It has helped me relearn tai chi and then go beyond. As an exercise that seems so non-strenuous, tai chi has significantly improved my muscle tone and control.

I agree with another reviewer in that I don't think tai chi can be learned entirely through a book, but I had taken tai chi lessons for over a year. I stopped practicing and quickly forgot most of what I had learned. The book has helped to bring it back to me.

My first reason for choosing this book is that it matched the form I learned in class - the Chen Man Ching version of the Yang Short Form. There is a recommended variation part way through the book, but it also provides the original postures.

Even better, the book's instructions include a visualisation / meditation to go with many of the postures. For example, with the first movements of the single whip, you are asked to imagine your hands casting a small fishing net and "surrounding yourself with a spray of silver light."

I have found the warm-up exercises in this book to be helpful too. Some are deceptively simple yet powerful. Finally, the end provides some suggestions on how to incorporate tai chi practice into daily home and work life. You don't have to go through the whole form. If you have only a few minutes or a small space, you can practice one or two movements and concentrate on those.

This book is worth seeking out.

Title: The Complete Illustrated Guide to Tai Chi
Reviewer: Jim Jacobs from Leesburg, VA USA

If you wish to learn Tai Chi, any book alone is probably insufficient. That said, an introductory reference and overview is equally likely essential. Angus Clark has drawn from his broad experience and deep understanding of the history, forms, and practical benefits of this art in crafting this lovely book.

The book begins with a very helpful historical perspective of Tai Chi and articulates well its relationship to other Chinese martial arts. The presentation of the Short Form (a variation of the Cheng Man Ching short form) is quite well done with additional material on useful variations.

Throughout the book the breadth of Tai Chi's value is constantly reinforced. From relaxation and exercise, through general health and fitness, to defence and martial forms, Clark nicely opens the door to the cosmos of Tai Chi.

Of particular value are a collection of short notes from Westerners who have taken up this art for a variety of reason and for varying lengths of time. I found these particularly encouraging.

As a newcomer to Tai Chi, I will be supplementing this book with videos and probably local courses. Clark's work is superbly supported with that of the numerous talented illustrators. The result is a lovely book to enjoy, share, and reread often.

Title: Secrets of QiGong
Reviewer: Elvis Pughsly from Wales

Qiogong is an ancient Chinese exercise deigned at promoting health an longevity. Being a martial artist myself, I personally found this book very beneficial as qigong exercises can enhance your martial arts skills,although does offer many other benefits including improved energy levels and a greater sense of well-being.
The exercises in this book are not specifically geared towards martial arts, and will give you a stepping stone to reach higher levels.
If you would like to start practicing the art of qigong, or would like to gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating exercise, then 'Secrets of Qigong' is the place to start. The book takes you from the beginning, starting with the history of qigong, and how it was developed which gives you a feel for the art, an aspect which is lacking in many of the traditional books. Secondly, it introduces the fundamentals of qigong, including an explanation of qi, energy centres and breathing. You are then taken through each exercise thoroughly from warm up to finish, with detailed explanations on theory and what what you should be thinking and feeling. The pictures are clear and easy to follow. The final section sets the book apart from others in it's field by explaining how qigong can be used in everyday life, while training, doing desk work or even parenting.
Overall I found this book to be an excellent all round starting point with a jargon free, easy to follow format, which has helped take me to higher levels, and a deeper understanding of qigong.