When I started Tai Chi class in February 2013 I was too sick to work. I was looking for a way of improving my health and fitness but the thought of going to the gym or jogging around the park was too painful to contemplate. Tai Chi offered me a gentler way of introducing exercise without feeling pressurised or overworked. The movements are slow and deliberate but you still get a great workout. My health and balance has improved greatly and I’ve lost a stone and a half of weight.
The Dao Lu group is very special as the instructors are friendly and very patient if you forget the moves! The class atmosphere is relaxed yet focussed and gets me out of the house for the fresh air and the chance to socialise with the other students. It has now become my Sunday morning ritual.
It’s been 11 months since I participated in my first Sunday morning Tai Chi class and I am still enjoying the sessions as much as the first. The class has grown so large now that there are 2 groups – a 9am group consisting of the more experienced students, and a 10:15 group of beginners and newcomers.
Personally my balance, stamina, fitness and flexibility have all improved. Body movements which seemed difficult in February now come naturally. However I still work hard enough to raise a sweat by the end of the class, which is important when you are practicing
in the open air!
In November it was my pleasure to take part in my first grading ceremony. I had to demonstrate First Form Tai Chi in front of all the Dao Lu leaders and students. I was nervous at first, but then I imagined my instructor’s voice in my head as I performed every move. I must say I was very pleased to achieve the yellow sash, medal and certificate when I passed the grading!
Since then I have moved on to learning Second Form Tai Chi which incorporates more exciting and challenging moves! I look forward to 2014 and progressing my Tai Chi skills.
Adrian Sobers
A participant from Senior Tai Chi Corner