IADMS London 2003   [back to the Category]

Tai Chi as a paradigmatic approach to refining inter-limb coordination patterns   [read the french version]

Author :   Steven J. Chatfield, PhD

Tai Chi as a paradigmatic approach to refining inter-limb coordination patterns


Steven J. Chatfield, PhD
Dept. of Dance, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, USA

Potentially therapeutic elements of Tai Chi practice have been identified and utilized in research studies to condition entire reflexes rather than individual muscles. This movement session will explore two contrasting Tai Chi forms called Step Back, Repulse Monkey and Fair Lady Works at Shuttles. These forms will be learned and practiced, and their component parts isolated and worked on through a variety of techniques. The forms will be examined through a neurodevelopmental lens commonly used in dance training and related therapy.

Applications to dance training, injury prevention and injury rehabilitation will be discussed throughout the session. The purpose of this workshop will be to practice and gain a deep conceptual appreciation of these two contrasting Tai Chi forms. The forms will be analyzed as assemblages of fundamental reflex actions strategically organized in time and space for optimal functional responses to the balance and force generating requirements of contrasting inter-limb relationships. Both Repulse Monkey and Fair Lady are repeating sequences that alternate right and left sides during a stepping pattern. The stepping pattern is synchronized with integrated torso, arm and leg requirements. Hips and shoulders on both sides are involved in a full range of motion during each cycle of these forms. Repulse Monkey emphasizes a homo-lateral coordination pattern that synchronizes actions of the hips and shoulders with a backward weight shift through a parallel stance. Fair Lady emphasizes a contra-lateral coordination pattern that synchronizes actions of the hips and shoulders with a forward weight shift through a stance with outwardly rotated legs.

During the movement session we will learn and perform each form and explore and refine their component parts. Participants will learn to use neurodevelopmental concepts to isolate and re-assemble the fundamental reflex components of these forms in a way that optimizes their functional intent.

Finally, each form will be explored as a paradigm or motif, from which derivative movement variations can be developed for functional as well as abstract purposes.