Newcastle Tai Chi

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What is tai chi?

When most people say 'tai chi' they mean tai chi for health. Tai chi for health is a simplified, non-martial exercise adapted from taijiquan.
It is intended to improve health and wellbeing through frequent, regular practice using low effort.


Isn't tai chi just slow motion exercise?
 
No. Some of the training methods are slow, and some are not. As the student gains greater skill, their movements become fluid and dynamic. They move at whatever speed the situation demands.
Slow motion movement, chilled out exercise or dance cannot be considered tai chi. Tai chi is more than this. It adheres to certain parameters, guidelines and rules of practice.
 

Not all tai chi is equal. Just as there are different models of cars, makes of computers and universities of varying calibres, so too are there different kinds of tai chi.

(Bruce Frantzis)

Tai chi fitness

Tai chi for fitness is a cross-training approach to the study of tai chi.
It combines standing qigong, moving qigong, tai chi form and partner work with core strength, psoas work, leg stretches, cardio training and Taoist Yoga.
Moderate, varied exercise can significantly enhance physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Learn how to move with balance, control, agility and grace.


Taijiquan

Yang style taijiquan (supreme ultimate fist) is an advanced kung fu system based on the yin/yang principle.
This fluid, dynamic, exciting martial art involves a wide variety of training methods, technical skills, weaponry and unarmed combat.
The Art is physically and mentally challenging; but in a very different way to mainstream martial arts.


A balanced approach

The taijiquan fighting method is thought-provoking and insightful; with lessons about living as well as about fighting.
There is nothing macho, aggressive, confrontational or competitive about taijiquan.
Health, fitness, strength, wellbeing, character development and philosophical study are just as important as combat skills.
 

How we move conveys energy and youth – not how buff we are.

(Anne Elliott)
 

Invest in your wellbeing

Tai chi offers a balanced approach to the cultivation of health, vitality and wellbeing. There is gain without pain.
In addition to exercise, tai chi focuses on 'motor learning' - how we use our bodies, the way in which we move, the processes involved.
The benefits of tai chi are significant, medically proven and long-lasting:

1. Age with dignity and grace

2. Stay calm

3. Develop your memory skills

4. Mindfulness

5. Boost energy

6. Increased brain activity

7. Better focus/concentration

8. Cultivate an unusual form of strength

9. Improved joint function

10. Feel balanced

11. Increased stamina and endurance

12. Release deeply-held muscular tension

13. Improved circulation

14. Meditation & awareness

15. Increased flexibility

16. Coordination

17. Learn to relax naturally

18. Improved poise and posture

19. Avoid strain, exertion and exaggeration

Lifelong exercise

Dr Michael Greger (author of How Not To Die) recommends 90 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every day.
The three doctors who wrote The Okinawa Program maintain that tai chi - with its ancient origins and incredible health benefits - is the ideal form of exercise for modern people.
In the longevity book The Blue Zones, Dr Robert Kane emphasised the fact that many forms of exercise - especially sport - often have adverse side effects that impede long-term practice.
By contrast, as a milder form of exercise, tai chi can be practiced throughout your entire lifespan, making it a safer, sustainable choice.


Welcome to our tai chi school

Have fun in a calm, vibrant, training environment; free from bullying, cliques and politics. The atmosphere is friendly and stimulating. Individual progress is important to us.
 

Most people come to our classes because they are seeking to learn tai chi properly and recognise that this is by far the best tai chi in the North East.

(Patricia)

Professional

We have a detailed tai chi syllabus in place in order to optimise the learning experience. Both of our instructors are registered with The Tai Chi Union for Great Britain.
The senior instructor has been practicing since 1975, teaching since 1995.
 

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Website designed, built and written by Sifu & Rachel Waller
Page created 3 November 1995
Last updated 02 November 2018
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