Tai Chi pose

Learning Tai Chi with Mei Quan

As a result of teaching thousands of students in London over many years, Mei Quan Academy of Tai Chi has developed a highly effective beginners course that enables the student to learn the basic elements of Tai Chi (also written as Taiji or Taijiquan). The course has proven successful in helping beginners to overcome any anxiety or particular difficulties they might have.

Classes at the Mei Quan Academy

Classes entail a mix of warm-up and conditioning exercises, Tai Chi Form, Qigong, and partner work.

Tai Chi training

Form

The Tai Chi forms are sequences of flowing movements, generally lasting between five and twenty minutes. Students first learn the Beijing 24-Step Short Form. This highly enjoyable form is the basis of the beginners’ course, providing a strong foundation for learning the full Long Form in later classes.

Qigong pose

Qigong

Our students learn a variety of easy but highly effective Qigong exercises, primarily from the famous Eight Pieces of Silk Brocade sequence and 28-Step Qigong set, as well as Standing Stake meditation, which all contribute to improving health and developing awareness of the body’s energy.

Pushing hands practice

Partner Exercises

We also use, in combination, three very simple and highly enjoyable partner exercises, Sticking, Yielding, and Centring, to develop balance, co-ordination, spacial awareness and sensitivity.

Tai Chi pose

Warm-up, Conditioning, Basic Stepping and Stance

Warm-up and conditioning, basic stepping exercises, including Tai Chi Walking, and the basics of stance and body mechanics, complete the overall picture to give a well-rounded and satisfying introduction to Tai Chi.

Broadsword training

Advanced Training

Students studying with Mei Quan Academy can progress their training through workshops and other classes.

Frequently Asked Questions.

What shall I wear for class?

You’ll need some loose comfortable clothes, plain subdued colours if possible. All our classes are done barefooted.

Is it possible to join a course if it has already started?

This depends very much on the teacher of the branch; the best thing to do is simply to get in touch with them. Follow the link of the beginner course you are interested in joining and you’ll find the contact information on the branch page.