Tai Chi for Beginners Tai Chi is an exercise form that uses gently flowing movements to improve flexibility and balance. It also reduces stress and tension. Since Tai Chi emphasizes technique over strength, anyone regardless of age or physical ability can practice it.Originally developed in China for self-defense, Tai Chi is a graceful exercise whose origins are over 1000 years old. This course teaches the Tai Chi form for health and well-being. The class is based on the 85 movement Yang Style Tai Chi and includes low impact warm-up exercises and meditation.