Question 1

Am I too old / young / short / tall / heavy / thin to practice Tai Chi or learn self-defense?

Accepted Answer

All ages and sizes are welcome and can benefit from both Tai Chi and other gentle self-defense.  We work at your ability and many sensei continue to practice until very advanced age.  As long as you can move gently, even with some range limitations, you can practice these arts.

Question 2

I'm not very fit OR I have arthritis- can I still participate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can start from your current level of fitness and flexibility/mobility and practice within your current capabilities, likely improving them with regular practice or at least preventing advancing stiffness.

Tai Chi will gradually extend your range of movement and your fitness levels will rise though if may not be evident for several sessions.  Many have found they can see increases fitness and stability as they notice they stop wobbling when we stand on one leg!  Improved balance is a useful marker of increased health.

Question 3

I have trouble standing for long periods, can I join in still?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  Many of the Tai Chi and Qigong postures can be done sitting down, focusing on upper body motions, and you’ll still get lots of benefits from them.  You may also find seating and observe between some standing periods as you need it.

We suggest you consult your doctor, therapist or chiropractor to determine which  postures are within your range of abilities to start.

Question 4

I am so stressed, is this helpful for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes and Yes again.  Especially if you have trouble with traditional forms of still quiet meditation and want to feel accomplished.  Finding the time out of a busy schedule for Tai Chi can improve many symptoms of stress and make it worth that time.

And there will likely be some humor, which we can all use to de-stress.

Question 5

I could never learn dances, so will I be able to learn Tai Chi moves?

Accepted Answer

Of course. Even with two left feet, the physical patterns of Tai Chi and other self-defense can become ingrained in muscle memory and are broken up into smaller motions to learn, with repeat practice during each session.  We don't need music and beat-counts to learn, so we can move at our own pace to start.  Tai Chi does not rush.

Question 6

I feel like I wouldn't have the time, so should I try?

Accepted Answer

Of course.  We don't believe what Yoda says about not trying.  It's worth a try and worth fitting into a schedule.  You can find time to practice between lessons in other every day activities- walking the dog, waiting in line, mopping the floor (waxing the car?), at the beach, walking to the office from the parking lot, etc.

You don’t need a lot of space to practice, as long as you can stretch your arms fully out to the side and above your head – you’ll be able to do most individual Tai Chi moves and some can be done as smaller arm motions. You may even end up starting a conversation and finding new friends.

FAQ

Snip-its from Library Class