Foundation Chen Tai Ji (tai chi) Classes
Shifu Liu Quanjun’s London classes and workshops are now being run via the new Taiji Circle Lucky Dragon website, all bookings can be made from there. Thank you.
Discover the roots of Tai chi (taiji) and try the traditional form of Chen Taijiquan (tai chi chuan) with renowned London Chen master Liu Quanjun. Learn how to relax and benefit health through our practical Chen Foundation classes, discover the hidden power in this authentic internal martial art, and understand theories and philosophies that underpin the practice.
In 2024 there will be four weekly Chen Foundation Taijiquan classes (Sunday mornings, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings) that beginners can attend and join, these classes are in venue and online. Plus two early morning Online Zoom classes Wednesdays and Fridays 7:30-8:30am. See timetable below.
Shifu Liu teaches the syllabus of standing practice and silk reeling exercises that are the basis for learning Chen taijiquan forms practice. Learning Chen Taiji takes time, persistence, perseverance and repetition of the movements to improve posture, balance and coordination, it’s not a quick fix!
Foundation Classes with Shifu Liu from 7 January 2024 – Venues
The Islington Chinese Association
Sundays: 10:00 – 11:00
Mondays + Tuesdays: from 18:30-19:30
21 Hatchard Road, London N19 4NG
Archway underground or Upper Holloway (Rail), walk or bus down Holloway Rd, to Marlborough Road.
St Paul’s Church Hall
Thursdays: 18:30-19:30
Camden Square, London NW1 9BP
Camden tube or Upper Holloway overground
To qualify for concessionary fees (please apply to support@taijicircle.com):-
• full-time student
• unemployment, housing or on incapacity benefit
• over 60 or under 18 years
• chronic health issues, ask Chris or Shifu Liu (email us) and check with your doctor that it is alright for you to practice
• children under 16 in adult Foundation classes are free with parent
Whether you are new to Taijiquan or more experienced, practicing the foundation training is essential to build strength, calmness, and to gain full energy which is necessary for more advanced practice. Our Foundation classes are recommended for all new students to gain a grasp of the essential requirements of the Chen style.
Everyone welcome, no previous experience is required.
If you have health issues please let us know and have permission from your doctor before joining our classes.
Training for our Chen Tai ji Foundation includes:-
• Nei Gong, internal practice
• Jiben Gong, warm ups and silk reeling exercises
• Understanding tai ji movement principles and the role of the dantian (energy centre) and kua (groin),
• Training for health benefits, agility and better balance
Objectives of the Foundation Chen Taijiquan Classes
• Release and learn to soften and relax tension, using your natural breath
• Learn the basic stances and hand positions of the Chen style
• Gain better alignment, balance and coordination
• Standing practice and posture correction for improved alignment and strength
• Understand Silk Reeling exercises, to gain control of balance and weight changing, and to circulate energy throughout the body
• Use of yin yang theory in Tai ji practice
• Understand some of the basic theories and philosophies underlying Chen Taijiquan
• Understand how the martial applications are within apparently simple movements even at the Foundation level.
“Thank you so much for this amazing material and for organising everything in such a clear way. This course is by far the best one I have ever taken, and I’ve tried quite a few places!”
AN. 2020