Benefits of cross-training Tai Chi for a Karate Practitioner.
Karate is known for its hard hits and explosive power performed with recognizable stances and direct, powerful movements. So where does something like Tai Chi come in to play for a karate student? The benefits are many and the overlap between them is too. Performed softly with slow relaxed movements, Tai Chi reinforces (or perhaps enforces) balance in the practitioner. Without balance, all movement is clumsy and ineffective. You can see it in a newer karate student, or perhaps you've felt it yourself. Moving forward quickly and sharply and something doesn't land right. The foot makes contact with the floor sooner than expected, or the momentum is too great and your weight carries past ....
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