What are basic tai chi exercises?

One basic type of exercise is called, "chi-gung". There are hundreds of styles of chi-gung but their purpose is to clear the channels of chi in the body (the meridians) and to strengthen the flow of chi. Some styles are very active, such as those based on animal movements (like "zookinesis", a modern translation), also increase range of motion of the joints and develop fine motor coordination. Other styles involve very little movement. Chi-gung is not only a physical exercise but includes concentration and proper breathing.

Slow forms such as Yang, Chen and Wu styles develop the fluidity of body movement and eliminate the tendency of the mind to lock up. Attention becomes distributed throughout the body rather than just in the head. You learn to relax all joints so that you are well connected to the ground (root).

From these exercises you then go on to Push Hands, training in healing and self defense.