Classes Details are listed by day on the side menu

Classes FAQs

What happens in a class?

As we have just commenced after the various lockdowns, we are following covid protocols to make the classes as safe as possible.  When you book into a class the specific details of one way systems etc will be emailed to you ahead of the class.  For all the classes we are hand gelling on arriving and before leaving the venue, maintaining 1 metre social distancing and keeping an air flow in the room.  Chairs are wiped down before and afer class.  Masks are necessary in communcal areas of each venue but optional in class.  A typical class starts with a warm-up, breathing exercises and some partnerwork (socially distanced during covid) followed by work on the T'ai Chi hand form.  Your teacher, together with teacher's in training or advanced students will circulate around the class to help you at the stage you are at.   This allows you to progress at a rate that suits you and means you don't have to worry about falling behind if you miss a few lessons.  We want you to have a positive learning experience and welcome any questions.  Over time and as you progress, you will also learn the T'ai Chi Dance, Staff, Silk and Sword forms.

 

What should I wear to class?

Loose comfy clothing is best and flat soled shoes if possible - such as plimsols.  Trainers tend to be too bulky for T'ai Chi, and make the foot unstable.  Feel free to wear them initially if you have nothing else.  Some attendees choose to go bare foot or wear socks with grips on the bottom but not every hall has a lovely clean floor.    If you prefer you can purchase a uniform or T-shirt - your teacher can help with this.  Tai Chi shoes can be purchased online at various websites such as Amazon.co.uk : Tai chi shoes , Tai Chi Link Tai chi Kung Fu Martial Arts Training shoes (taichilink.net)  or Martial Arts Footwear, Feiyue Shoes, Kung fu slippers, Shaolin, Tai Chi, Zori Slippers, Tatami, (playwell.co.uk)

 

How much does it cost?

Class prices range depending on the venue.   Usually this is between £7.50 and £10. This is detailed in the info for each class.   You can choose to pay by 10 week term (£75 for 10 consecutive lessons) or pay as you go at £10/class.     

 

There is an association annual membership fee of £25 per annum or £15 per annum retired.  This also includes your grading card if you wish to grade (although there is no pressure to do this).

 

Can I start at any time? 

We try to accommodate new members as much as possible but we generally prefer new members to begin in October, January, April or June to try to avoid disrupting the class progress and to give you a chance to feel more confident starting with others at the same level.  From Monday 4th October 2021 there will be a Zoom class specifically for those who are new to our style of Tai Chi.  This is so that a good foundation can be taught in small groups and I can get a better chance to help you directly.  You will then have a good basis to fit into any of our classes.  

Are there classes aimed at beginners? 

Unless a class is new it will not be solely beginners.  Generally, our classes are mixed abilities unless specified in the class details.    Classes are usually beginners to intermediate level.  We find this works very well as more experienced students can be very helpful in sharing methods which helped them learn particular moves.  As mentioned above, from 4th October 2021, there will be a new Zoom class for beginners with the aim of creating a foundation to help you transition more easily into a face-to-face class.  Please get in touch with angela@leetaichi.co.uk for further details.



I have an injury/illness, can I still do T'ai Chi? 

Generally yes, but its sensible to discuss any new exercise regime with your doctor first.  Its also good to make your teacher aware of any health complaints that may restrict your movements.     Our classes are not competitive and our teachers encourage you to work to your own ability so there is no pressure if you need to take a bit longer on some aspect of the class.  There are also chairs around the hall for you to use at any time.  We encourage you to relax into movements rather than forcing the body.  You should also feel free to miss anything out if you need to. and some movements can be adapted.

 

Should I bring anything? 

You may want to bring a bottle of water: T'ai Chi can make you surprisingly thirsty as the deep breathing helps move toxins out of the body.  Also, during covid protocols with increased air flow, it is good to bring a fleece or similar layer in case you feel cool.