To obtain the maximum benefit from Tai Chi Chuan, even if one is only interested in the health aspect, we must perform the movements correctly by understanding the original meaning behind each movement, i.e. its correct martial art application
— Master They Soon Tuan, Tai Chi, The Treasure of Mankind, 1997

Tai Chi

What is Tai Chi?

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that is often described as meditation in motion. Although Tai Chi is a martial art it is more widely practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing.

Tai Chi, also called Taiji, is a noncompetitive, self-paced system of gentle physical exercise and stretching. Each posture flows into the next without pause, ensuring that your body is in constant motion.

Tai Chi has many different styles. The most widely practiced are Yang, Chen, Wu, Hao and Sun. Yang is the most widely practiced. Within Wutan we teach all five. We also teach the complimentary arts of Bagua and Xing Yi. To help students gain a better understanding of Tai Chi, we explain the martial benefits as well as the health aspect.

Who can do Tai Chi?

Tai Chi is low impact and puts minimal stress on muscles and joints, making it generally safe for all ages and fitness levels. In fact, because Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise, it may be especially beneficial if you’re an older adult who otherwise may not exercise.

You may also find Tai Chi appealing because it’s inexpensive and requires no special equipment.

You can do Tai Chi anywhere, including indoors or outside. And you can do Tai Chi alone or in a group class.

Why try Tai Chi?

When learned correctly and performed regularly, Tai Chi can be a positive part of an overall approach to improving your health. The benefits of Tai Chi may include:

  • Decreased stress, anxiety and depression

  • Improved mood

  • Improved aerobic capacity

  • Increased energy and stamina

  • Improved flexibility, balance and agility

  • Improved muscle strength and definition

Some evidence indicates that Tai Chi may also help:

  • Enhance quality of sleep

  • Enhance the immune system

  • Help lower blood pressure

  • Improve joint pain

  • Improve symptoms of congestive heart failure

  • Improve overall well-being

  • Reduce risk of falls in older adults

Classes

  • Tai Chi Beginners / Intermediates

    Teacher: Sarer

    Tuesday

    Beginners 7.00pm – 8.00pm

    Intermediates 7.00pm-8.30pm

    ( £8.50 each or £30 for 4 lessons)

    Cotham Gardens Primary School, 18 Cotham Grove, Cotham BS6 6AL

    Please call or email to reserve a place

  • Tai Chi for Beginners

    Teacher: Will

    Wednesday 7.30pm-8.30pm

    £8.50 each or £30 for 4 lessons

    Southville Centre, Beauley Road, Southville, BS3 1QG

    Please call or email to reserve a place

  • Advanced Tai Chi

    Invitation Only

    Wednesday at 8.30pm – 9.30pm

    St Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Stackpool Road, Southville BS3 1NW.