I started tai chi about 4 years ago. First started Yang Style at the gym. When the gym closed down I found another class near me but doing Northern Wu Style. I really enjoyed training with that group and I would schedule my life around my tai chi classes. Nothing came between me and my tai chi. But then my instructor emmigrated. The new guy who took over, while a really nice guy, I didn't enjoy his teaching style, so I moved on.
So I ended up back in a yang style class, and again, I found I didn't enjoy the class. I would have to convince myself to go. Firstly, the location while beautiful, I always felt uncomfortable there. Our classes are in a conference centre, but we have to move furniture around before and after classes, and I always feel as if I have to tip toe around there. Secondly, the instructor, while obviously competent, I found talked too much.
Is it just me. When I do tai chi, I like quite and still. Yes tell me when I'm doing something wrong, but I don't want to hear jokes and stories during tai chi. Also I believe in the theory of doing tai chi barefoot, we have people wearing their boots, and yes while it's cold, wearing windbreakers that rustle while they're moving.
Should I just ease up? I'm currently without a class again. Busy looking for one, will attend one on Monday and see what it's like.
Those of you that attend classes, what are your classes like?
recommend this
email
print
link to this page
Comments: 4
I also enjoy the interaction with other people, and I feel the "chi" in a room with people doing tai chi in unison is awesome. Of course it's all about finding the right group of people.
I do practice in what little space I have at home, but I haven't given up finding a new tai chi home either.
For your situation, I think you should communicate with your classmate to see if they think the same way or just you. You can also suggest the teacher that you need to have more time to get your form corrected. If the teacher doesn't listen, then you have a good excuse to exit the class. That will not leave a impression that you quit things in the middle.
I wish I could suggest some class which you can attend in your area, unfortunately I don't know any one in you area.
Good luck on finding a new class.
I think my instructor is a bit of a drill sergeant as well - we spend the first 1/2 hour doing stretching - a lot of leg work - it seems the yang style fundis like pain :-) It's good pain though. I understand the importance of strong leg muscles for good solid stances and although I joke about the pain, I actually enjoy it. After the class it feels like I've had a good work out and learned something new.
I now look forward to my weekly classes again. Yah!