Written specifically for the Western practitioner, "Taijiquan: Through the Western Gate" blends modern science and philosophy with the traditional wisdoms-- drawn from classic t'ai chi literature-- that underlie Chinese martial arts. Author Rick Barrett authoritatively describes a wide range of movements, practices, and positions in the context of such topics as being in the zone, effortless power and force versus power, the whole-body energetic connection, instant meditation, and energetic coherence. Step-by-step exercises help make this sometimes daunting discipline simple and accessible.