Learning Tai Chi on Your Own vs With a Teacher
- Theresa Perry
- Dec 19, 2025
- 5 min read
Is it better to learn Tai Chi independently or with guidance? This in-depth guide explores the pros, cons, and best approach for long-term wellbeing.
Tai Chi is often described as meditation in motion — a gentle yet powerful practice that supports balance, posture, stress relief, and overall wellbeing. Originally a martial art, Tai Chi is now widely practised for health, mindfulness, and longevity.
With the rise of online learning, many people ask:
"Should I learn Tai Chi on my own, or is it better to learn with a teacher?"
This article explores learning Tai Chi on your own vs learning with a teacher, outlining the pros and cons of each approach, who each option may suit best, and why a blended approach can often provide the most balanced and effective learning experience.
Today, there are countless resources available — videos, blogs, image guides, books, pictorial cards, and full online courses — making self-learning more accessible than ever. At the same time, learning with an experienced teacher remains invaluable for personalised feedback and deeper understanding.
Learning Tai Chi on Your Own vs With a Teacher
OVERVIEW :
What Makes Tai Chi Unique?
Before comparing learning methods, it’s important to understand what Tai Chi involves. While Tai Chi movements appear slow and simple, the practice is highly nuanced. True Tai Chi involves:
Postural alignment
Weight shifting and balance
Relaxation without collapse
Coordinated breath
Mindful awareness and intent
Moving energy through the body
Because these elements are subtle, how you move matters as much as what you move. This is why the way you learn Tai Chi can significantly impact your progress and results.
Learning Tai Chi on Your Own
Self-Guided Tai Chi Learning Resources
There is an abundance of self-learning material available, including:
These resources range from free to paid, and many allow you to practise entirely in your own time.
Subscribe to our youtube channel to access free videos with some instructional videos or forms to inspire your practice.
👉 Enter your details below to receive the free Tai Chi video and begin your journey with confidence.
Pros and Cons: Learning Tai Chi on Your Own
Pros | Cons |
Learn at your own pace | No personalised feedback |
Practice anytime, anywhere | Easy to miss subtle errors |
Flexible scheduling | Mirror feedback can be misleading |
Free or low-cost resources | Risk of ingraining poor habits |
Ideal for self-motivated learners | Limited adaptation for your body |
Finding the right resources for your learning style |
Benefits of Learning on Your Own
Flexibility & Freedom You can practise when it suits you — early mornings, evenings, or short daily sessions.
Accessibility Perfect for those without local Tai Chi teachers or with busy schedules.
Cost-Effective Free resources allow you to explore Tai Chi before committing to classes.
Challenges of Learning on Your Own
Even when using high-quality videos and checking your movements in a mirror, you may unknowingly practise incorrectly.
Mirrors do not reveal:
Subtle weight imbalance
Excess tension in joints or shoulders
Inefficient posture
Disconnected movement
Over time, these habits can become difficult to correct.
Learning Tai Chi With a Teacher
Learning with a teacher provides guidance that goes beyond copying movements.
Pros and Cons: Learning Tai Chi With a Teacher
Pros | Cons |
Personalised corrections | Fixed class times |
Faster improvement | Higher cost |
Learn subtle alignment & balance | May need to travel |
Adapted to your body & learning style | Teacher availability varies |
Accountability & consistency |
Why Teacher Guidance Matters
A skilled Tai Chi teacher can:
Correct posture and weight balance
Identify tension you may not feel
Adapt movements for injuries or mobility
Help you progress safely and efficiently
Demonstrate the difference in incorrect and correct movements
Answer questions to aid with understanding
Show the applications of movements to provide deeper learning
Everyone learns differently — visually, auditory or kinaesthetically. An experienced teacher adjusts instruction to suit you, rather than offering generic guidance.
This prevents long-term mistakes and helps you experience the full benefits of Tai Chi more quickly.
If you’re based in Sydney, learning with guidance can fast-track your progress while keeping the practice gentle and enjoyable.
✨ Monthly Mindful Movement & Sound Bath Meditation
Experience gentle Tai Chi-inspired movement followed by a deeply relaxing sound bath meditation — perfect for beginners and those seeking calm, balance, and nervous system regulation.
👉 Ideal if you want structured guidance, personalised cues, and a supportive environment.
Or if you are looking for a regular Tai Chi Class in the Hills District, visit our website for our current classes and workshops.
The Power of a Blended Approach
For most people, the most effective way to learn Tai Chi is a combination of both methods.
A Balanced Learning Model
Learn With a Teacher | Practise on Your Own |
Establish foundations | Reinforce learning |
Receive corrections | Build consistency |
Fine-tune alignment | Practise at your pace |
Ask questions | Deepen body awareness |
You might learn initial movements and principles in class, practise at home using videos or guides, then return to class for refinement and progression.
This approach offers flexibility without sacrificing quality.
Learn Tai Chi in Sydney
If you’re based in Sydney, learning with guidance can fast-track your progress while keeping the practice gentle and enjoyable.
✨ Monthly Mindful Movement & Sound Bath Meditation
Experience gentle Tai Chi-inspired movement followed by a deeply relaxing sound bath meditation — perfect for beginners and those seeking calm, balance, and nervous system regulation.
👉 Ideal if you want structured guidance, personalised cues, and a supportive environment.
Free Tai Chi Video: Try Before You Commit
Not sure where to start?
🎁 Get a free Tai Chi video to experience the practice in your own time.
This short guided session introduces:
Gentle Tai Chi movements
Basic posture and breath awareness
A calming, accessible flow you can practise anywhere
👉 Enter your details below to receive the free Tai Chi video and begin your journey with confidence.
(Perfect as a gentle introduction before joining a class.)
Who Is Each Learning Style Best For?
Best for Self-Learning | Best for Learning With a Teacher |
Self-motivated learners | Those wanting faster progress |
Busy schedules | Beginners wanting confidence |
Limited access to classes | People seeking refinement |
Budget-conscious | Those valuing personal feedback |
Most people benefit from both.
Final Thoughts
Tai Chi is a lifelong practice — not something to rush or perfect overnight. Learning on your own offers freedom and accessibility. Learning with a teacher offers depth, safety, and personalised insight.
When combined thoughtfully, these approaches complement each other beautifully.
Whether you begin with a free video, practise at home, or join a guided class, Tai Chi meets you exactly where you are — supporting balance, calm, and wellbeing every step of the way.
🎁 Fill out your details to Download your free Tai Chi video
🌿 If you're in Sydney, join the next Monthly Mindful Movement & Sound Bath Meditation
Other related articles
If you’d like a gentle way to begin, my free Tai Chi for Calm & Focus video is perfect. It blends mindful movement and breath awareness — ideal for those who find sitting meditation difficult. Fill out your details below 👇to start now.
💫 Sydney friends — come join me in person!Experience calm and connection at my next Mindful Movement & Sound Bath Meditation session. We blend mindful Tai Chi movement with the soothing sounds from Tibetan singing bowls, handpan, and chimes.
Reserve your spot below 👇
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