T'ai Chi Ch'uan is an ancient form of slow, graceful and rhythmic exercise which originated in China, where it is still extremely popular, often being performed in public parks early in the morning when the air is at its freshest. The style taught here is the Yang style Short Form as developed by Professor Ch’eng Man Ch’ing, currently the most practised form of Tai Chi in the U.K.

Tai Chi is sometimes referred to as ‘meditation in movement’ or ‘swimming in air’ for externally that is how it appears. It is a soft martial art, quite unlike karate, ju jitsu or any of the ‘hard’ martial arts which rely on force and speed. Tai Chi strengthens our internal energy, and allows it to flow more freely through the body.

Tai Chi is gentle and non-violent, though after much practice it is an extremely effective form of self defence. More detailed information can be found at Tai Chi for Health.

The classes are co-operative rather than competitive – there are no grades or belts to achieve, and the emphasis is on small amounts of regular practice. A new ‘posture’ is learned every week – in Tai Chi this is a series of fluid, flowing movements rather than a static pose. We repeat the posture the following week, and when everyone feels sure they have remembered it, we add on another.

By the end of the first term you will have learned the first section of the Short Form. For some students this will be adequate, and will certainly be a useful introduction to the art of Tai Chi. Others may wish to learn more – normally the Short Form is taught over four terms. There are extra opportunities for revision classes, outdoor classes in the park, private tuition and learning aids for students of all levels.

People of all ages and abilities can benefit from Tai Chi. No special equipment or uniform is needed, just wear loose, comfortable clothing to the first class, and flat- soled shoes if you have them (not trainers) although Tai Chi can be performed in socks or bare feet. Students will find that a couple of minutes daily practice at home greatly enhances appreciation of the weekly classes. The entire short form takes about 12 minutes to practice.

Although Tai Chi can eventually be used in self-defence, and our classes incorporate some of the practical applications, it is initially practiced for its health-giving benefits. It is particularly useful for calming the mind and body, increasing alertness and body awareness, and for developing concentration and sensitivity. Tai Chi helps with balance and posture, and most students report a greater sense of ‘groundedness’.

Regular classes, and private one-to-one lessons, are held in Lewes and Newhaven. 10 week Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Courses are held at the All Saints Centre, Friars Walk, Lewes every Monday evening. A mixed level class is held at the Summerhayes Centre, Marshall Lane, Newhaven every Friday morning.

Terms begin in January, April and September – prior booking is essential. The next Lewes class begins on Monday 15th September 2008.

What equipment do I need?

Just loose comfortable clothing is all you really need to start Tai Chi. Eventually, you may like to obtain the canvas-soled Tai Chi shoes that we wear in class. The Costume Store at 16 Station St, Lewes (above Equilibrium Health Centre) sells them, at £7.05 a pair. In Brighton, you can buy them at Yum Yum's Supermarket in the North Laines for £10.50 a pair.

If you are planning a trip to London, there are shops in Chinatown which sell them for around £5 a pair (turn left out of Leicester Square tube and head into Little Newport St). Occasionally they can be picked up at street markets for even less than this (though they tend to be seasonal). Make sure you try them on first if possible, as sizing is not always accurate.

More info is available in the tutor's books, from £4.95 at all good bookshops, or available at the classes.

External classes and workshops at home or workplace available by arrangement.

Lewes Beginners Classes: Monday 6.00pm - 7.00pm from Monday 15th September 2008

Lewes Improvers Classes: Monday 7.00pm - 8.00pm from Monday 15th September 2008

Lewes Advanced Class: by invitation

Newhaven Mixed Level Class: every Friday 11.30am - 12.30pm from Friday 12th September 2008

Private lessons: Monday 10.00 - 11.00am, Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday 5.00 - 6.00pm

External courses: by arrangement

Monday evening classes: £70 per 10 week term

Friday morning classes: £65 per 10 week term (£60 Carers/Concs)

Early Birds booking before 31st August receive £5 discount on the above prices