Tai Chi and Qigong tournaments have become increasingly popular in the 21st century. In competition, form is judged and scored in the same fashion as gymnastic tournaments. And just as in gymnastic tournaments, you must attain a certain level of competency and accomplishment before entering. There are many different types of tournaments. Some are very martial in nature where one has an opponent and others are solo performances. The goal of each is different to a degree. Of course, like everything else today, there are many different opinions about the value of tournaments.
There are mixed feelings regarding tournaments in the internal martial arts community. The focus of many of these tournaments is often aesthetics, not the flow of Qi. And, of course, Tai Chi and Qigong are aesthetically pleasing. Those who see little value in competitive Tai Chi frequently referred to it as “pretty Tai Chi”. They feel that this is not the goal of internal martial arts. And is it any surprise that many Masters and/or instructors do not even find the form presented in tournaments pleasing to the eye? This may be because Shen or the flow of Qi in the body is missing. As well, competitors don’t always follow the Tai Chi principles. Many of the stances are so extreme, they are quite impractical in the martial sense or for self-defense. It is merely a performance designed to please the judges.
On the pro side, other Masters, instructors and students enjoy the tournaments because it is a chance to network, discuss Tai Chi issues, and just hang out together. They also enjoy an opportunity to test how calm and focused they can stay while being judged. This is not an easy task and requires an inward focus rather than on the judges, other competitors, and the audience.
Tournaments also offer an opportunity to watch and listen in order to improve your own skills. If the tournament is one where you are facing an unknown opponent (as in push hands competitions), you will a chance to compete against someone you have not practiced with. At times, your opponent may become somewhat aggressive. This is a chance to test your mettle, as well as an opportunity to learn how to maintain your calm (both physical and mental) while under pressure. Obviously, it becomes extremely important that you react appropriately!
Many participants love watching everyone else going through their routines. Once it is over, participants are often exhausted but invigorated. Most schools/organizations are very supportive and their students and winning is always a real kick! Another benefit of tournaments is that they often attract younger people who may find Tai Chi and other internal martial arts somewhat boring compared to the external or hard martial arts. Competitions may be more interesting and appealing to this younger group. By preparing for and competing, they have an opportunity to increase their self confidence, improve their coordination, self discipline, strength, and focus.
One thing is for sure, no matter what type of tournament a participant enters, it is vital to train hard, be well balanced, and mentally and physically as strong as possible in order to compete.
On the plus side, the experience and self-mastery gained through competition can be “priceless”!
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