Martial is both relative & subjective

 Link to "Winning Execution of Applications"

 

“At  first  glance,  it  appears  to  be  very  complex,  but gradually  it  becomes  simpler  because  every  element in  it,  no  matter  how  minor  it  is,  follows  certain  rules and  these  rules form  a  logical structure  with  calculated, scientific reasoning behind it.  Every element  is  optimized toward  two  objectives; martial  art  applications and  health benefits.”

Excerpt From

"Uncovering the Treasure Tai Chi's Path to Internal Energy and Health"

link to sample of the book above

by Stephen Hwa  

 In the book it answers these questions which are also links:

 * What is meant by "internal energy" and what is the way to get it?
* How do all those types of "forms", (large,compact, square, etc.) fit into a learning program?
* What pieces am I missing in order to learn Tai Chi?
* How does the way I align myself contribute to gaining internal energy?
* Why are there seemingly so many rules to follow when learning this?
* Why does it seem so complex and difficult many times?
* If Tai Chi originated from martial artists, why is it what I see many times looks like dance?
* What in the world can I gain from doing Tai Chi?
* Are there any dangers in doing this, what should I cultivate, what should I avoid?
* Why does it take so long to learn?
* This art has no "belts" what distinguishes beginners from advanced?

The need to learn the martial aspects of  Classical Tai Chi is both  subjective and relative, depending largely on a practitioner’s personal goals, physical condition, and dedication to mastering the full, original intent of the art. While Master Hwa's teachings emphasize that the martial aspect is the foundation of the art’s health benefits, the "need" to train for combat is not universal. 

Here is a breakdown of why this need is subjective and relative:

1. Subjective Aspects (Personal Goals & Needs)

• Health vs. Combat: For many practitioners, the primary goal is improving balance, flexibility, and stress reduction (health), rather than fighting. In this context, the intense, sometimes higher-risk martial training may not be necessary.
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•  "Internal Power" vs. Fighting: Master Hwa emphasizes that understanding martial applications is necessary to unlock the full internal power (using the torso, rather than arms) needed for better health. Therefore, one might study martial arts subjectively to enhance personal energy and strength without ever intending to use them in a fight.
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• Mental Well-being: The martial aspects can be viewed as "metaphorical" or a way to cultivate discipline, focus, and emotional resilience. 

2. Relative Aspects (Context and Intensity)

• The "Small Circle" Method: Classical Tai Chi teaching of the "Small Circle" (or Small Frame) is rare, focusing on precise, advanced internal movements meant to preserve the art's original, highly efficient self-defense capabilities. The "need" to learn this depends on whether one seeks an authentic, traditional experience or a modernized, simplified version.
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• Individual Capability: The "need" for martial training varies by the individual’s physical capability and age. While martial Tai Chi is effective for self-defense, modern life seldom requires actual physical fighting.
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• The "Square Form" Necessity: Hwa teaches a "Square Form" for beginners to learn structure, which is vital for those intending to teach correctly, but less critical for casual practitioners. 

Why Study Classical Tai Chi Martial Aspects Anyway?

Master Hwa suggests that without understanding the martial roots, the Tai Chi form becomes just a "geriatric dance" and loses its depth. The "need" to learn the martial applications is, therefore, a desire for depth and authenticity, rather than an immediate need for self-defense.