Camrose Tai Chi

Frequently Asked Questions

What other styles of tai chi are there?
The most commonly taught one in this country is the Yang style and its shorter version, the Cheng Man Ching.  The Chen style is physically more demanding, with wider stances and lower postures, with some swift movements interspersed among the slow ones.  Less common again is the Wu style, and there is also the WuDang, which lays a lot of emphasis on moving from the waist.

What is your own experience of Tai Chi?
Enthused by seeing the benefits Dr Lam's arthritis form, I went on to obtain his teaching certificate for his Sun style based Diabetes form, which I taught for 2 years, but was then introduced to the Sun based VETCH system which is more flexible in that there is no need to offer separate sequences for different purposes. In an area with a small population its important to have classes which are as inclusive as possible.  I'm also an instructor member of the Tai Chi Union for Great Britain. In my spare time I practice yang style.

You mention qigong - what is it and what's your experience of it?
Basically, its a method of cultivating your personal energy. There are many different systems, utilising movement, breathing, meditation, and even simply standing. We usually do some qigong movments and occasionally will work our way through the Shibashi '"18 steps" - incidentally an excellent and invigorating start to the day if done on rising. I'm at present a student member of the Bodidharma Chi Kung Society (a common alternative spelling) and attend monthly seminars.

What should I wear for a class?
You need flat comfortable and flexible shoes and comfortable clothes which give you unrestricted movement. Most ladies wear trousers but this is not absolutely essential.

How do I know if your class will suit me?
Give it a try!  If having tried it you feel a different approach would suit you better we can suggest a couple of others.  However, be aware that most will only take new beginners about twice a year.

I get tired easily and don't know if I could stand for a whole hour
You are advised to take a rest whenever you feel you need it. Also,many of the exercises can be adapted to being done seated and this can be arranged if you request it.

I am fit and lively - this class sounds too low key for me!
You start  where you are and people can work at the same exercise at very different levels. The class covers a wide ability range, and everyone can be challenged. There are depths to the forms which are not immediately apparent to the newby. Tai Chi is sometimes seen as "old people's exercise"  and so it can be one one level - but have a look on YouTube for any of the styles mentioned in the answer to the first question!