Stirling elementary school Midtown West : Martial arts comparison series
Stirling elementary school Midtown West : In the world of martial arts, you may not see karate and Tai Chi in the same light. Tai chi has a more meditative reputation, but it does also have martial arts elements. So what are the differences between these practices, and which one is better? Here we explore those very questions so you can find the best sport for your kids.
Differences between Karate and Tai Chi
When observing people doing karate or Tai Chi, you will see distinct differences. Karate uses fast, crisp movements, but Tai Chi is a slow and stabilizing practice. Some of the main differences between the two disciplines include:
- Tai Chi originates from China
- Karate comes from Japan
- Tai Chi promotes relaxation and balance
- Karate is for sport and self-defense
- Tai Chi is for internal meditation
- Karate uses movements to neutralize an opponent
Tai Chi uses more of a meditation approach for achieving balance, but it does also use martial art techniques. It is for both defense and maintaining a healthy body. The movements in this style use weight transference and depend on the opponent’s energy.
In karate, movements are crisp and fast-moving in comparison. Kata promotes strength and technique to help overcome an opponent. The fast pace of karate helps develop the cognitive function and problem-solving.
Which one is best for kids?
The meditative movements in Tai Chi are excellent for promoting balance but may not hold the interest of kids. The steps are slow and deliberate, so don’t have the visual appeal of karate. Because of this, Tai Chi tends to be something that attracts older students.
Kid’s karate classes are fun because they include kata and the latest teaching techniques. Your kids will learn the technical steps of karate but the principals of the sport too. It allows them to get a fun workout while also gaining focus and better concentration. Stirling elementary school Midtown West