Diffusion, transformation and hybridization: Taijiquan body culture in the United Kingdom

This study analyzes texts in British books, journals, newspapers, magazines, and websites alongside field research, interviews and visits to training institutions to document the history and expansion of Taijiquan (also known as Tai Chi) in the United Kingdom (UK). By applying Eichberg's “body cultures” model and suggested methodology, this paper explores the spread and change of Taijiquan, and the communication-based dynamics of its diffusion and transformation. This UK-focused research seeks to understand how the cross-cultural spread of Taijiquan contributes to cultural diffusions as part of the globalization process.