Any new class can be a bit daunting at first, so here are a few pointers and some info on what to expect from your first class:

BEFORE THE FIRST CLASS

• Some prefer to jump right in and face a challenge head on, in which case you can probably ignore the rest of this section!
• Some feel a bit anxious before attending their first class, but consider how anxiety and anticipation are very similar experiences so keep focusing on all the positive, exciting aspects of joining a new class full of rewarding exercises and friendly students and ignore any negative / worrisome thoughts.
• If you have questions or concerns just contact us ​before your first class and ask away - don't be shy!

​WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

• Some students worry about whether they are wearing the right clothes or not. For the first few classes it really doesn't matter what you wear, so long as your clothing is loose and comfortable, and appropriate for the refined art of Tai Chi (i.e. not too revealing, not too tight, no offensive slogans etc.). T-shirts and tracksuit bottoms / baggy trousers are ok and after a few classes you can decide if you'd be better off sourcing more comfortable / suitable clothes.
• We recommend training in flat soled shoes and avoiding trainers with an upward curve at the toes or formal shoes with tight pointed toes (these make it harder to engage the toes) but, again, feel free to wear whatever you like to the first few classes and decide later if you need to find something more suitable. High heels are not permitted as they pose a high risk of injury.

DO I NEED TO BRING A MAT OR ANY EQUIPMENT?

• You don't need any equipment to do Tai Chi, so for your first class maybe just bring a small towel and a change of shirt if you tend to get hot very easily.
• Bring water if you like but please keep it in your bag or around the edge of the room and don't place it on the floor next to you during the class because during someone might accidentally trip over it during stepping sequences.
• If you are attending a meditation class you will be notified if you need to bring in a cushion.
• If you are doing a weapons class (e.g. sword) you will be given specific information about what to bring beforehand.
• If you are doing a stretching class you may be asked to bring a mat or a large towel to class.

GETTING TO THE THE VENUE

• Check the venue location in the Info section before heading out to the first class.
• Please aim to arrive early to the first class to allow yourself time to find the entrance and get changed without having to run or rush.
• If you find you're running late or can't find the venue then don't stress - it's ok to arrive late to the first class, just take your time and join in whenever you arrive (but please aim to be on time to the next class!).

 
WHO ELSE WILL BE THERE?

• We are often asked what the make up of the class will be, and the short answer is that there are usually a wide variety of students of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
• Some students will be more experienced than others but there will always be other beginners joining alongside you on the first day of a new course.
• We discourage competition and arrogance in our classes and encourage friendly, supportive interactions, so expect a warm and inclusive atmosphere and if you experience anything to the contrary please have a chat with your teacher about it rather than assuming that sort of culture is supported in the class.

WHAT WILL WE BE DOING?

• This will depend on the type of class you join but in general we begin with mobilising the joints and warming up the body in preparation for Tai Chi and Qigong movements.
• When you first join you will be guided through a simple series of movements to help you become familiar with the underlying principles of Tai Chi. If you're attending a Guided class then there is no need to memorise movements - just copy along and enjoy!
• If you are attending a Sequential class, you will be shown a movement in detail, given time to perform it on your own and will need to remember the movement in order to learn the next movement in the sequence. For beginners, we recommend attending Guided classes to begin with until you are very family with Tai Chi principles and comfortable with memorising simple movements, otherwise it can be frustrating and potentially overwhelming to try and remember long sequences of highly detailed movements. Slow and steady is the key!