Managing injuries from practicing Tai Chi

Nan Lin Gardens, Diamond Hill

I was speaking to a student about things we should do, but often neglected. That is the subject of warming up. At the beginning of every session, we should warm up, regardless of your age and fitness. We might think that is is ok, because it is light exercise we do. However, we forget about the risk.

It is easy to pull your back and hamstrings. Poor posture also plays a part to injuries. As does not knowing your limits. Think about what you are doing and how much movement or force is involved. Over the years, I've seen people just arrive and go straight into weapons and the more physically challenging varieties of pushing hands. Plan your training and listen to your body. On the other hand, it isn't you, but the people you train with. Some are very heavy handed and we've have been known to come home with bruises. It is about applying technique, not use brute strength.

I have been injured many times. Injuries are part and parcel of martial arts. It just depends on how bad. But, no matter how bad, I just have to get up and deal with it. Over the years, I've tried many ways to treat or manage injuries. I used to use Deep Heat, but I disliked the smell. I prefer Chinese herbal rubs and oils like Tiger Balm and Tit Dar Oils. You really have to rub it in for it to work and yes it can hurt. Especially if you have to apply it on yourself. It really works, but not if you gently apply it like face cream. However, it can smell a bit. If you need to go out, then, try the non-scented version of Tiger Balm or arnica gel.

I've always kept a small supply and when the pandemic meant no travelling, I had to be careful as as I only had less than half a bottle of Tit Dar Oil left. I had no idea as to when I can visit Hong Kong again. When I did, Tit Dar Oils was on the top of my shopping list.

So what is Tit Dar? Tit Dar refers to an area of traditional Chinese medicine. When traditional herbs are used to make an analgesic liniment. It can be alcohol based (not for drinking or internal use) or an oil. Tit Dar is favoured by martial artists. After a good training session, masters would encourage students to use Tit Dar to help you heal or recover. Some schools have a formula for making their own Tit Dar wine and these have been passed down for generations. We don't have this in my school, but I encourage students to use traditional Chinese liniments. Tai Chi might be a soft style, but softness can still cause injuries.

At the very least, keep a cold pack in the freezer. You'll never know when you might need it. Injuries will happen, but if you are careful, you'll live to train another day.

How do you recover in your style?

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