New Tai Chi Sword Book

No review yet. I'll write something up once I've finished reading it.

The book is not meant to be a practical how-to but is more for the philosophical underpinnings of taiji jian in the CMC/ZMQ tradition.

I agree to a certain degree.

I think that the so called philosophy adds special flavor to the martial art, that it enriches the martial aspect. But there is a limit on how much of the "philosophy" must interfere with it.

I don't know exactly why, but CMA in general tend to overlook the martial and give way too much credit to the "philosophy". I am not criticizing the book or traditional schools that give importance to the "philosophy", I'd just like to point out that sometimes one aspect shouldn't be overglorified over another.

Agreed, in many cases the practical application is neglected or not taught in schools.

Tai chi properly taught should reflect all its aspects, the martial application and the art, the part which is focussed on personal development and delivers health benefit.

The philosophy weaves through both the martial and art sides, it defines how we act and react in response to an attack, how we move, and the overall philosophy of combat of soft defeats hard, "using four ounces to move a thousand pounds." The philosophy, which is also reflected in Chinese medicine, lays the foundation for a health and wellbeing strategy.

You need all parts of tai chi to have a complete system, and finding a school that teaches it in a balanced way is very important.

Ok, the much overdue review:

Tai Chi Sword by Ken Van Sickle.

www.amazon.com/Tai-Chi-Sword-Kenneth-Sickle-ebook/dp/B00R9SXPRQ

DISCLAIMER: The author, Sifu Ken Van Sickle was a direct student of Cheng Man Ching (Zheng Manquing). I am a student of Sifu William C. Phillips, also a direct student of Cheng Man Ching. This makes Sifu Van Sickle my taiji "uncle." Therefore I am going to be a bit biased in the positive direction.

REVIEW: If you want a book to teach you how to do Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan) sword, this is not it. This is meant for students who already know the form and the practice, and want to gain a deeper understanding of their art. Sifu Van Sickle was attempting to create something resembling the enigmatic Tai Chi classics but with a focus on sword rather than the hand form.

As a small inexpensive book, it is filled with quotes from famous swordsmen, little bits of advice on taiji sword and taiji fencing practice, and quite a few Sifu-isms like "Slow is smooth and smooth is fast." This is a book I will probably keep going back to for insight on my practice but not for practical advice on techniques.

I do think this book is worth picking up but only for people who already know taijiquan sword.