A tai chi association is a professional organization dedicated to supplying members of the public with information about tai chi, while also improving practice among tai chi professionals, such as instructors. There are several international associations dedicated to the promotion of tai chi and many countries have nationwide tai chi associations, along with smaller organizations active in specific regions.
One aspect of the work of a tai chi association is certification of instructors. These organizations set standards that are established by a board of individuals, most of whom are tai chi practitioners with lengthy experience. By setting standards and insisting that members adhere to them to obtain and retain certification, tai chi associations improve the overall quality of tai chi instruction and practice. Practitioners take written exams and may also interview and provide demonstrations in order to be certified and many associations provide continuing education opportunities as well.
Tai chi associations also promote tai chi to the public. They make members of the public aware of the health benefits of tai chi and provide listings of their members so that people can locate certified instructors. A tai chi association may be active with hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other health care organizations to bring tai chi to patients as well as health care providers. Educating members of the public also includes publishing books and pamphlets on the history of tai chi and current tai chi practices.
For professionals, belonging to a tai chi association opens a lot of doors. Their names are published on member listings for the benefit of students and they also have access to trade journals, conferences, and other events that allow them to develop professionally. Networking with other tai chi professionals is enabled by membership and people may also be able to get information about job opportunities that are closed to non-members.
Members of the public can find a tai chi association a valuable resource. Whether people are just starting to explore tai chi or considering certification as an instructor, a tai chi association will have ample information and resources. Members of such organizations are passionate about tai chi and enjoy having opportunities to share information and ideas with fellow enthusiasts, as well as professionals. Many tai chi associations maintain an online presence and people can find a local organization by searching for their nation or area and “tai chi association” with their favorite search engines.
