T'ai Chi for All

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We promote Dr Paul Lam’s ideal of
T'ai Chi for All.

We find that Qi Gong and Sun form T’ai Chi with its upright stance and follow-through steps provides improvement in balance for all ages and, even if done seated due to a physical limitation, and the ability to complete an acceptable coordinated 13 part form in around 10 lessons. This inspires confidence and introduces people to T'ai Chi, allowing them to progress further to longer forms if they wish, or just to practise and enjoy their achievement level.

Our classes try to accommodate differing levels of ability and have included all ages from 3 to 105, from the extremely fit to those wheel-chair bound with severe disability.

R e a d t h e H A R V A R D M E D I C A L S C H O O L r e p o r t o n t h e h e a l t h b e n e f i t s o f T ’a i C h i

T’ai Chi is for All

T’ai Chi originated as a martial art in ancient China. Nowadays its training routines (Forms) are practiced in a gentle way throughout the world as an effective exercise for health.

T’ai Chi forms, combined with associated static breathing exercises, Qi Gong, consist of fluid, gentle movements that are relaxed and slow in tempo. Breathing is deepened and slowed, aiding visual and mental concentration and coordination. With its emphasis on posture and coordinated movement, improvement in balance and mobility are quickly achieved.

It can be practised almost anywhere and is a suitable form of whole body exercise for just about anyone. Studies have shown that T’ai Chi improves fitness, hypertension, muscular strength, flexibility, balance, relaxation and cholesterol levels. We specialise in teaching traditional Sun style and were Dr Paul Lam’s Health Form Instructors for 16 years.

Classes include some simple internal Qi Gong for use as a "stress-buster" and to build an awareness of Chi. This Qi Gong addition introduces the concept of Qi, and we find that 85-90% of beginners physically feel it in the first lesson.