Traditional Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan classes are taught by Chris Wilson. He is a member of the Yang Family Association, and a Certified International Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan Instructor.
Every effort will be made to accommodate those interested in studying Tai Chi Classes. If the times and locations do not work for you or your organization please send an email to: chris@todaystaichi.com Private instruction can be arranged at a mutually agreed location or online.
Balance and Flow Studio
10 Lackawanna Ave
Gladstone, NJ
This is a half hour long class. The purpose of this class is learn some basic fluid movements of tai chi as well as work on basic balance skills such as tai chi walking. The practice here is to focus on movements without too much force. This is a very basic class which can be done by anyone, but especially designed for seniors and those that have limited range of motion.
Cloud Hands can be practiced anywhere, by anyone, even by those who don’t know tai chi. Not only will tai chi boost one’s immune system but also will help the practitioner feel connected with people all over the world in the same situation. Tai Chi masters believe that just practicing cloud hands is equivalent to practicing tai chi overall, because it contains all the essence of tai chi.
In Tai Chi we will do a series of stretches and slow moving movements. It is important that you are comfortable and relaxed. There is no dress code. However, it is suggested that you where loose fitting clothing and sneakers. Kung Fu pants, sweat pants or yoga pants will allow for a nice range of motion to do the exercises. There is a bathroom for changing if needed and there are places to store your belongings. Please remember to take all of your belongings with you since this is a shared space. We are not responsible for lost or miss placed items.
It is not necessary to buy specific tai chi shoes to practice tai chi. It is recommended though to wear shoes that are not tight fitting. You want to be able to spread your toes out inside of your shoes and for them to be as comfortable as possible. In addition, thin soled shoes are preferred, but not required. These types of shoes will help achieve a closer contact with the floor. Many running shoes have soles that are too thick and bouncy. This can interfere with connecting your whole foot to the floor.
NOTE: Please be mindful that some locations require that no outside shoes be permitted in the practice space. If you are uncertain about this requirement for your class check with your instructor prior to attending.
No, you do not need to bring a yoga mat to tai chi classes. Nearly all tai chi classes are done standing. That said, there are several stretches and light tai chi exercises that can be done lying down. For these special classes a yoga mat will be required. The instructor will make clear to students prior to attending class what will be required to bring or the items will be provided for the students by the instructor.
A good attitude and willingness to learn something new! Along with a water bottle are the most essential items. It is also recommended, but not required, that you bring a notebook or electronic device to take notes during Tai Chi Classes. Classes are a time for building your home practice. Reviewing old material and learning new material. Asking questions that arise during home practice. The notebook serves as your journal and personal text book. At your request a few minutes of class time can be used for updating information that has been learned in class.
