![A close up of someone's hands outstretched in a Tai Chi pose](https://mac-birmingham.transforms.svdcdn.com/production/Learning-and-Participation/2024/Courses/WB30-_-Tai-Chi-Beginners.png?w=760&h=504&q=100&auto=format&fit=crop&dm=1714134661&s=7625c59ca72da2815649698ca0e09758)
About Tai Chi Beginners (WB30 Spring)
Learn the basics of Tai Chi and increase your flexibility and suppleness while experiencing meditation in movement.
What will you learn on this course?
Tai Chi is a Chinese exercise system and martial art. It has been called meditation in movement, and people come to Tai Chi for a variety of reasons including relaxation and to improve balance and health.
There are different styles of Tai Chi. On this course, you will learn the Chen Man-Ch’ing form, a sequence of 37 moves, which was adapted from the Yang Form of 108 moves, in order to meet the needs of people in the West who had less time to commit to practice.
You will be introduced to basic Tai Chi stances and exercises and learn how to practice these using safe and effective posture and technique in a relaxed manner. Most classes will start with loosening exercises and will finish with some Chi Gung breathing exercises. You may also do some individual and partnered exercises including Tai Chi walking and push hands.
Tai Chi has a number of health benefits including improved:
- Flexibility
- Posture
- Co-ordination
- Stamina and cardiovascular health
- Balance
- Blood pressure levels
- Body awareness
- Use of intrinsic strength
On completion of this course, participants will have learnt the first third of the Chen Man-Ch’ing form. The remaining two thirds of the form are taught in the Improvers class.
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for adults aged 18+. It is suitable for beginners; no prior experience is necessary.
At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. The room is wheelchair accessible. A support worker or carer may assist; carers must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support.
You should avoid having a meal during the 2 hours before the class. All students should inform the tutor of any ongoing health problems.
Do you need to bring anything?
Please wear comfortable clothes that allow free movement.
Are there any additional costs?
There are no additional costs.
Who teaches this course?
Phil Shelton