Taiji (also spelled Tai Chi) is a martial art and a healing art. For those who are fit and athletic, practicing taiji can be as challenging as you choose to make it. In martial arts lore, taiji is well known as one of the most effective fighting systems. Taiji is also gentle enough to be practiced by older adults and those recovering from physical illness and injury.

Literally translated taijiquan (t’ai-chi ch’üan) means “great extremes fist.” The term taiji refers to the complementary opposites, yin and yang, and quan means boxing style. One way of describing the practice of taijiquan would be to say it is a martial art based on creating harmony between apparent opposites. These principles include using softness to defeat hardness, the mind to heal the body and relaxation and flexibility to overcome rigidity.

Taiji training consists of choreographed movements; strength and flexibility exercises; qigong exercises to improve the circulation of blood, energy and breath and push hands or sparring practice to develop technique and sensitivity. People who practice taiji often benefit from improved balance and coordination and better resistance to illness (colds, flu and serious conditions such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis and high blood pressure). For many, the study of taijiquan is a life-long endeavor and a continual refinement of skill and understanding.

We offer Taiji Forms at 5 different times and offer Taiji Weapons twice during the week. Everyone meets as a big group and does warm-up and fundamental exercises togther before breaking into smaller groups based on the form you are currently studying.

Beginners get grouped together with an instructor and learn our easy to remember 10-step routine. As you learn the material you change groups and work with the group that is appropriate for your stage of learning.

Taiji weapons classes are available for those interested in taking their taiji further than barehand study. Among the weapons we learn are fan, straight sword, spear, and broadsword. Other weapons available by request.

Instruction in advanced topics and other internal styles such as xingyiquan, baguazhang and bajiquan are available with instructor’s approval in either group class or private lessons.