Mobility · Mind Body

Tai Chi Brush Knee and Push

Tai Chi Brush Knee and Push combines a slow forward weight shift with a sweeping hand and an opposite-hand push. It practices balance, coordination, and controlled leg movement.

  • Beginner
  • Compound
  • Low injury risk
  • No rest timer
Video by Begin with Breath Tai Chi | Dr. Adam Potts, PT on YouTube

How to do it

  1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent, and right toes turned slightly outward.
  2. Shift your weight onto your right leg.
  3. Position your arms with your right palm beside your shoulder and your left hand palm-down in front of your chest.
  4. Place your left heel forward and slightly left of your right foot.
  5. Shift forward onto your flat left foot, bending your left knee with your right heel grounded.
  6. Sweep your left hand down past the outside of your left knee.
  7. Press your right palm forward at chest height, finishing with your elbow slightly bent.
  8. Shift your weight back onto your right leg to finish the repetition.

Form cues

  • Let your weight shift carry both hands.
  • Keep your shoulders relaxed.
  • Breathe easily throughout.

Common mistakes

  • Front knee falling inwardKeep your front knee pointing in the same direction as your toes.
  • Stepping too far forwardShorten your step until you can transfer your weight smoothly without wobbling.
  • Leaning into the pushKeep your torso upright over your hips rather than reaching with your chest.

Safety

An uncontrolled weight shift can cause a loss of balance. Turning your body against a planted foot can strain the knee, especially in a deep stance.

  • Practice on a level, nonslip surface with space around you.
  • Keep a stable support within reach if your balance is uncertain.
  • Reposition your feet between sides rather than twisting on a loaded leg.
  • Stop if you feel joint pain, dizziness, or increasing unsteadiness.

If you have ongoing knee or ankle pain or frequent balance problems, ask a physiotherapist about a supported, shallower version.

Muscles worked

Front
Back

Primary muscles

  • Glutes
  • Quadriceps

Secondary muscles

  • Calves
  • Foot & Ankle Stabilizers

Equipment

No equipment needed.

Sets and reps

Sets
1–2
Target
5–8 reps per side
Rest
No rest timer

Move slowly through one side before reversing the arm and leg positions for the other side.

Variations