Absolutely!
I realize that a good majority of students either tolerate, dislike, or don’t truly understand the value of the warm-up exercises we do before class. Of course, they are eager to get to “the good stuff.”
Warm-ups are a vital element of the main schools or styles of Tai Chi, and usually include exercises that are actually present in the form. A high level of thought and design go into the warm-up exercises, which are a very effective way to prepare and condition your body for Tai Chi practice. They improve your health, flexibility and fitness, as well as help you relax your body, which in turn helps you stand for long periods in a relaxed and alert manner.
Everyone, including the instructor, arrives to class from a different place emotionally and physically. Some are tired, some are wired, some are distracted and some are stressed. The warm-ups help bring everyone to the same calm center before we begin practicing form.
Each Tai Chi school, style or instructor has a particular way to warm up. However, all warm-ups should prepare your body for the lesson ahead and ensure your improvement over time.
The warm-ups must be done slowly and correctly with the goal of waking up the tissues and ensuring the joints are lubricated in order to move freely and gently. The joints need to get the major muscle groups moving slowly, continuously and smoothly.
What else will the warm-up exercises do for you?
warm your muscles and gradually increase your body temperature
help prevent injuries
improve respiration and digestion
increase elasticity of blood vessels at the capillary level
speed up the healing process
improve concentration
increase saliva secretion and body fluids
improve posture, stance and agility
When warming up, pay attention to any stiffness, pain, weakness, tightness or tension. Discontinue any movement that is painful and always stay within your comfort range. Remember to breathe slowly and deeply as you rotate the joints several times continuously with a slight pause between repetitions.
Everyone wants to be a skilled Tai Chi practitioner. In order to attain the desired skill, you need to be proficient at whole body, integrated movement. The warm-up exercises play a vital role in attaining that proficiency.
Warm ups are part of the journey!