We ensure students have a good grounding in Tai Chi hand form before moving into advanced techniques such as self defense and weapons. We balance old school methods of training, with a friendly and modern approach to teaching.
Everyone have different reasons for learning Tai Chi, so we offer different curriculum options.
Beginners start by learning a solo hand form called 'square' form. A simplified version of the traditional form, it is designed so you can easily learn the basic sequence and postures of Wu style Tai Chi.
This form will benefit your breathing and circulation, build your stamina and improve your coordination. It is also an important foundation for further learning.
Square form is taught over a class term of 20 weeks.
Once you have achieved a level of profiency in square form, you will be invited to learn 'round' form - this is the original, traditional form, and it builds on the fundamentals you learn in square form.
Further detail to added each of the moves, and the transitions are smoothed so the entire form becomes practiced as a continuous, graceful, circular movement.
Learning this form will further build your fitness and coordination and open the door for different options in advanced Tai Chi training.
Chi Kung (Qi Gong) is a series of breathing exercises based on Tai Chi movements that improve your circulation and flexibility, and develop your internal strength.
A low impact and easy exercise that can be done anywhere and is very good for helping you relax when things get stressful, or as an effective cool down after exercise.
Regular practice is known to help to prevent, and help you recover from, illness and injury.
We incorporate Chi Kung exercises 'Eight Treasures' and 'Tai Chi Eighteen Movements' into our training sessions, followed by a short meditation.
Exercise chart from the Han dynasty (168 BC). Chi Kung is believed to be at least 4500 years old.
Push hands is a two person drill that teaches the ability to deflect an opponent in close quarters.
Sense or 'read' your opponent through touch, and control their movements by keeping them off balance.
Push hands is a very safe exercise, that does not involve striking or blocking, and is suitable for all ages and abilities.
Advanced students may pursue push hands as a competitive sport here and overseas.
Wu Chien Chuan (1870-1942), our great grandmaster (left) demonstrates push hands.
In Tai Chi, weapons are considered to be an extension of the body, and follow the same principles of movement. We teach weapon forms, drills and practical applications.
Wu style Tai Chi has four traditional weapons - Spear, Sabre, Sword and Whip (stick). We also teach Staff and Walking stick forms.
Sword 劍
Staff
Sabre 刀
Spear 槍
Tai Chi is a martial art and a very effective form of self defence. It takes time to learn and master, but empowers you with a high level of control.
Tai Chi in conflict resolution
Boxing drills
Kicks and kick defense
Grappling and throws
Tumbling and break falls
Sparring
Internal strength training or 'Nei Kung' is a high intensity form of tai chi training, it is usually attempted only after you have developed and practiced all other aspects of the art.
It involves committing a period of time to a fairly intensive training regime designed to build your strength, skill and understanding of Tai Chi.
In keeping with tradition, the Nei Kung methods of training are kept secret, performed behind closed doors and revealed only to dedicated students of good character.
Nei Kung is not for everyone - you can still attain a high level of skill in Tai Chi without it, but it is a badge of honour for those who take on the challenge.
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