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1. My legs are weak, and I sometimes use a wheel chair. Can I do Tai Chi?

   Yes, but first check with your health care professional. You'll be able to do all the upper body movements, and some of the leg motions can be adapted.

2. Tai Chi seems so relaxing. Is it really a martial art?

   Yes. There are two basic types of martial arts: the hard martial arts and the soft (or internal) martial arts. The former includes karate and TaeKwon-Do. Tai Chi is a soft one, emphasizing relaxation—for many, it is a form of meditation. Nevertheless, Tai Chi movements, like those of other martial arts, are executed with careful precision and grace.

3. Since practicing Tai Chi, my blood pressure has gone down. Can I go off my medicine?

   That's something to ask your health care professional. Generally, though, Tai Chi is considered an adjunct therapy—one that works best in partnership with other approaches. Make sure you tell your health care professional if you are planning to try Tai Chi.

4. My arthritis makes exercise painful. Why should I try Tai Chi?

   People with painful, stiff joints usually want to avoid exercise. But exercise actually keeps bones, muscles and joints healthy and as strong as possible. Tai Chi is gentler than most other exercises, and it can be modified to fit your special needs. Tai Chi also helps strengthen the muscles around an arthritic joint, improves flexibility and increases range of motion; it may also relieve some of your joint pain.

5. If Tai Chi is rooted in Taoism, does that make it a religious practice?

   No. Tai Chi is part of Taoism, a "natural science" rather than a religion. It is therefore compatible with any and all religions.