Tai Chi Teacher Certification
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial arts practice involving mind-body work, also known as a “moving meditation,” according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Tai Chi teacher certification can be a lengthy, involved process of intense study and practice.
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Purpose Of Certification
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Tai Chi teachers don’t have to be licensed to teach, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. As of 2010, the U.S. government doesn’t actively regulate Tai Chi practices. However, earning a Tai Chi teacher certification may deepen an individual practice and provide professional credibility. Aspiring teachers also may want to learn proper Tai Chi techniques to ensure student safety and well-being.
Teacher Certification Schools
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Aspiring Tai Chi teachers may choose to study beneath their master to learn the martial art. For others, training at a teacher certification school or formal workshop may be a good choice. Tai Chi certification programs are not standardized, and may vary greatly from school to school. In-person instruction and distance learning are both available.
The certification program at Tai Chi Healthways in San Diego, California, requires no prerequisites. Students earn credits through workshops and private lessons. To complete certification, students must be able to accurately name and perform poses, offer correct cues for entering the pose and complete a written exam. To become certified as an instructor, students must complete 300 hours of class credit and 30 hours of leadership training.
Tai Chi Healthways
5051 Sterling Grove Lane
San Diego, CA 92130
858-793-8939
Taichihealthways.com
The American Tai Chi and Quigong Association offers certification for students independently studying Tai Chi. Teachers must have documented 150 hours of formal teacher training at any studio, and documented 500 hours of experience teaching Tai Chi. After submitting two letters of recommendation, teachers may receive a Level I Instructor certification.
The American Tai Chi and Quigong Association
2465 J-17 Centreville Road, #150
Herndon, VA 20171
Americantaichi.org
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Curriculum
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Besides lectures and hands-on practice, Tai Chi certification may include studying DVDs, manuals and other materials. Students may study the philosophy and background of Tai Chi, but also learn practical teaching skills.
Length Of Programs
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Some certification programs require only a few weekend workshops. Others are more intense, requiring months or even years of study, depending on the school’s instructional goals and free time of the student.
Cost
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Training costs can vary depending on the school. At Tai Chi Healthways, each hour-long class costs $15, so final certification cost hovers around $5,000 in 2010. Certification costs between $100 and $200 through the American Tai Chi and Quigong Association, but this does not include the costs of required classes taken independently prior to applying for certification.
Job Opportunities
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Tai Chi Healthways considers Tai Chi to be the fastest-growing practice in the fitness and wellness industry, according to its website. Some training programs offer referrals to certified students seeking teaching jobs at Tai Chi studios or fitness studios. Others may choose to offer private instruction.
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References
- Photo Credit movimientos de tai chi image by Amalia Arriaga de GarcÃa from Fotolia.com
