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1. While you can buy books and videos about Tai Chi, the best way to learn is to attend a class and receive instruction first-hand.

2. Tai Chi is particularly beneficial to women, since it can help prevent osteoporosis and ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis, all of which strike more women than men.

3. Chinese martial arts—including Tai Chi—was featured in the 2004 Olympics as a demonstration sport and are expected to be an official event by 2008.

4. Several studies show that Tai Chi enhances balance and reduces the risk of falls among the elderly.

5. Medical science remains unclear about how Tai Chi works, but studies performed in the U.S. and abroad demonstrate that is has practical health benefits.

6. Tai Chi can lower blood pressure and heart rates.

7. Tai Chi movements are taught step by step; eventually, all the steps become one continuous sequence or form.

8. You may need to practice Tai Chi regularly for weeks before you see the health benefits. Daily practice is recommended.

9. Tai Chi and qigong are both modalities for health and healing from traditional Chinese culture.

10. Tai Chi is based on the concept of chi, the vital life energy that sustains health and calms the mind