FAQs
What do I need to wear / bring?
Clothes: Wear comfortable clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Avoid wearing restrictive jewellery or watches.
Shoes: Any comfortable shoes that allow for unrestricted movement. Trainers are okay to begin, but often the padded insoles makes certain balancing exercises more difficult. We recommend wearing flat, thin-soled shoes.
Others: Please ensure you are well hydrated and bring water along to classes.
If attending outdoor classes, please make sure you are wearing weather suitable clothing.
What if a class is cancelled?
If a class is cancelled, we aim to make sure we put it on our Facebook and Instagram accounts as soon as we know.
What should I do if I have an injury or health condition?
Tai Chi is a very accessible form of exercise that is regularly practised for its therapeutic benefits. It is often uses as recovery exercise from ill health or injury. We ask that you make all your relevant health conditions known to the instructor at the beginning of class, so they can advise you on any activities that might require altering.
Regular attendees will be asked to fill out a health declaration form so that are able to cater our practice to any injuries or conditions that might affect your participation..
Is Tai Chi like Yoga?
Tai Chi and Yoga have a lot in common. Both use slow, mindful movement to develop body awareness, relaxation, balance and a calmer, more meditative quality of attention. Both hold postures and use clever body mechanics to move between postures. The main difference is in how the body tends to move, which is much easier to be seen than explained in words. Tai Chi generally involves less floor work and less emphasis on flexibility, and the stepping and walking practices are uncommon in most Yoga.
Do I need a certain fitness level to start?
Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It focuses on gentle movement and balance rather than high-intensity exertion, making it accessible for beginners and those returning to activity.
What is the pricing for classes?
We offer flexible pricing options, including 'pay-as-you-go' session rates and monthly memberships for frequent practitioners. Your first 'taster' session is free!
Please check out our pricing structure on the Classes page.
Will sessions include partner work?
Occasionally we might pair up to help each other test our structure or posture, or do the cooperative “pushing hands” exercises to teach the body how to safely absorb and release force. Anyone uncomfortable with these exercises is free to sit out.
What about the martial arts aspects of Tai Chi?
Tai Chi, or Taijiquan, has a rich martial history, popularised after becoming the fighting art of the imperial bodyguards of Qing dynasty emperors. At Two Lakes, our instructors take the martial aspect of the art very seriously, training daily in the combative side of the internal martial arts. However, at this time, our focus in classes is on bringing relaxed, healthy, and revitalising physical exercise to people. If you are interested in the self defence part of Tai Chi, please let us know via email or in classes and we'll see how we can help.
How do I get started?
Simply click the 'Enquire Now' button on our home page or visit our contact page to book your first session. We'll send you all the details you need to prepare for your first visit to Two Lakes Tai Chi.