FAQ

What's currently on the schedule?

What if I just want to try Tai Chi or Qigong without committing to it?
As of October 2024, classes are $20 + HST ($22.60) if you want to come try just one. 

Do I have to live local to Hamilton, Ontario, in order to practice with you?
Regular attendance is a good idea. I will sometimes offer Sunday workshops that will allow you to attend for one afternoon and reap substantial benefits. However, you get more from Tai Chi and Qigong through long-term commitment and persistence.
 
What makes your classes different from other Tai Chi or Qigong classes?
I wrote a blog post about this here. In short, I value and am deeply committed to each of my students, and I offer a high level of expertise in internal martial arts, Qigong, and the energetic and spiritual aspects of these arts.

I want to learn Qigong. How do I start?
Weekly Qigong classes are always open to beginners. Go here to view the list of classes. 

I want to learn Tai Chi. How do I start?
Check the Tai Chi for Beginners page for the next start date, or contact me by phone or email.

What is Tai Chi?
An old Chinese method of exercise and meditation that is also a martial art. Learn more here.

What is Qigong? 
An even older Chinese method of exercise and meditation that is not a martial art. Learn more here.

Should I do Tai Chi or Qigong?
Yes. If you want to choose one or the other, learn the difference here.

Where are you located?
Regent Health Centre, 150 Locke Street South in Hamilton, Ontario. If you are driving, there is metered parking behind Starbucks (next door to the Regent Centre) or reasonably priced street parking; free street parking can be found in the streets surrounding the Centre if you're willing and able to walk for a block or two.

What do I wear to class?
Comfortable clothes you can bend and stretch in. Basically, what you would wear for any workout. Shoes are optional, but running shoes or training shoes that you would wear to the gym are good. The Regent Centre studio policy is no outside / street shoes, so bring a pair you can change into if you want to work out in shoes.

How much do you charge?
A very reasonable amount.

Do you have special rates for seniors, students, and people on ODSP / OW?
If your finances are limited and you can't afford classes but you still want to practice with us, please contact me.

Do I need to contact you before I join?
It's always nice to touch base with a new student before you join, but if you want to just come, that works too.

I am dealing with pain, an injury, or other physical limitation. Can I still do Tai Chi or Qigong?
This post is about Tai Chi and physical limits, but it applies to Qigong too. If you're worried about how your body is going to take Tai Chi or Qigong practice, and especially if you have balance issues or trouble standing on one foot, start with Qigong. If that sits well with you, then give Tai Chi a shot. Unless you're fierce and refuse to be intimidated. In that case, dive into Tai Chi or both.

I am dealing with serious illness. Can I still do Tai Chi or Qigong?
In my opinion, you not only can do Tai Chi or Qigong, but you need them more than most people. I think it is possible to achieve improvement for just about any condition, but it does require serious commitment. This series of posts on Tai Chi and Qigong for health recovery is for you.

Are Tai Chi and Qigong Related to Taoism?
Yes. This is how I understand the relationship.

My Mom / Dad / person of my acquaintance needs to exercise, and I heard Tai Chi or Qigong is good for [person in their situation]. Can they attend your classes?
Absolutely they can, but if they haven't asked you to contact me or research this on their behalf, chances are they won't want to. My best suggestion for a reluctant exerciser is that you offer to attend classes with them, and make it an experience that you can enjoy together. They might figure out that they like it, or they might attend because they enjoy spending time with you. However, Tai Chi and Qigong take a lot of effort and commitment to learn. Someone who doesn't really want to do it is highly unlikely to agree to come to class or continue attending. (Have you considered that you're overfunctioning? Tai Chi and Qigong are excellent for stress relief.)
 
Wait. Why do I want to do any of this?
Lots of reasons.

Tai Chi isn't really a martial art.
That's not a question, and yes it is.

Why do you move so slowly when you practice Tai Chi or Qigong?
So we can really relax for real. 
 

Last updated July 28, 2024

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