Q: "I'm xx years old. Am I too young/old for the class?"
A: Generally speaking there is no upper, or lower, age range for playing Tai Chi. Currently Yuang Chi School of Tai Chi has a policy of only admitting those under 16 if they accompanied by a parent or guardian.
If you are older and you have some physical limitations on your mobility, this will not, generally, prevent you from taking part in a Tai Chi class. However, you need to be aware that the majority of each 2 hour class is done standing and if you have difficulty staying on your feet for this period of time you should contact someone at Yuang Chi School of Tai Chi before enrolling.
Q: "I have bad knees/back/etc. Can I still take part in the class?"
A: First of all if you are currently receiving or have recently received treatment for an injury or illness then you should consult with your doctor or other health care practitioner.
If you are carrying a long-term injury or are simply suffering from an infirmity then assuming that you have no problem standing you should be able to play the form to some extent.
Tai Chi, as taught at the Yuang Chi School of Tai Chi is not an exact form and adjustments are made to the form for individuals to suit their abilities.
Q: "I have a disability, can I attend the class?"
A: Having a disability does not automatically prevent you from attending Tai Chi classes. However, you should contact Yuang Chi School of Tai Chi, using the details on the Contacts page, to discuss your particular needs/requirements.
Q: "Do I need any special clothing or equipment?"
A: In short, no. Loose-fitting clothing is recommended, especially during the warmer months as playing the form can make you quite warm.
Footwear is one issue you should consider. Most people play Tai Chi in bare or stockinged feet. Others wear flat, soft-soled shoes such as martial arts 'slippers', old-fashioned school pumps or even ballet shoes (without the points).
A number of types of suitable clothing in the colours of the Yuang Chi School of Tai Chi as well as shoes can be purchased via this web site by going to the Clothing page.
Q: "Are there any belt or grade exams that I will have to pass?"
A: No. Tai Chi is very different from other martial arts in this respect. Tai Chi is played by each individual to the best of their ability regardless of what that level is and each individual that plays the form is considered to be equal to every other one.
There are a number of different elements of the form, of Chi Kung and of other forms of Tai Chi that are taught to students who have mastered, to some degree, one aspect or another of Tai Chi but this is simply based on experience, a willingness to progress further and gain a greater understanding than on the attainment of any grades as such.
Q: "What happens on the first night?"
A: Registration, for those who have not registered in advance, is the first order of business. Each student will be asked to complete a questionnaire about their current medical state. Once these formalities have been completed the class will start with introductions to the class and to the Form. From this point on you are learning.
Q: "Where can I find out more about Tai Chi?"
A: As well as the information on this web site about Yang-style Tai Chi and Chi Kung there are a number of books and videos detailed on the Books and Videos page. Additionally there is a wealth of information on the Internet.
Q: "Do I have to bring a partner or can I come on my own?"
A: There is no need to being a partner unless you want to. Most of the instruction takes part in groups.
