Two new Tai chi and Qigong classes are starting in Fishponds this Autumn. These are:
- 10.45 – 12.00 – Tai Chi 37 Form
- 12.15 – 1.15 – Tai Chi and Qigong
From September 2026, our Thursday morning Tai Chi form class will move to the Beechwood club. We are also starting a new class at the same venue on a Thursday lunchtime. This one will be Tai Chi and Qigong. If you are free on Thursdays, want to learn some Tai Chi and improve your health, but not sure which class would be best for you, then read on.
10.45 – 12.00 noon – Tai Chi 37 Form
In this class we will focus on learning the Tai Chi 37 form (Taiji 37), as taught by Grandmaster Dr Shen Hongxun. This form is based on the principles of the Nanpai tradition (Southern Tai Chi School). It consists of 37 postures naturally flowing from one to the other. It has some similarities to the Yang style form, well known in the west. We will also study some standing postures (a traditional way to learn Tai Chi in the southern school) and some Qigong exercises.
If you study Tai Chi with me, it is not just about racing through the postures so that you can tick a box and say that you know the form. My approach is about learning the form as a way to understand Tai Chi principles and internal force. It will help to heal and strengthen the body and mind. We will not be doing any fighting or partner work in this class. This means that you do not need to join at the beginning of the form, but you can join in anytime.
Find out more about Tai Chi 37 form classes here: https://www.taichibodyandmind.co.uk/taiji-37/
Cost: This class is payable in advance in termly blocks of 6/7/8 weeks. This is not a drop in class and termly commitment is required. Don’t worry if you miss the start of term – you can join any time. Classes are £12 each.
12.15 – 1.15 – Tai Chi & Qigong
In this class we practise standing and moving exercises from the Taijiwuxigong system. These are qigong exercises which are essentially a very simple form of Tai Chi. Hence Tai Chi and Qigong. This does not necessarily make it the easy option! The main difference is that you are not learning a form. The exercises are specifically designed to improve health through improving posture, activating the body’s energetic system, and letting go of tension or ‘binqi’. They can help with common problems such as aching joints, back problems, chronic conditions, co-ordination and balance. This practise is very good for overall health and well-being, including general levels of fitness, boosting strength, energy levels, and relieving mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression. We also use breathing and sound techniques to help open up the body.
Find out more about Tai Chi and Qigong classes here: https://www.taichibodyandmind.co.uk/qi-gong-classes-bristol/
Cost: £12.00 per session – This is payable weekly but regular attendance is encouraged – dropping in now and again will not really bring much benefit. If you would like to pay up front for a whole term, the cost is reduced to £11 per class.
Is this for me?
If you would like to come along to Thursday Tai Chi and Qigong in Fishponds, you are more than welcome, whatever your age or experience. You do not need to have done any Tai Chi or Qigong before. You will need to be able to exercise standing.
Registration: Places are limited so you will need to register in advance. Please email me to register on claire@taichibodyandmind.co.uk If you have any questions about whether this class will be suitable for you, I will be more than happy to discuss with you.
Getting there
Address: The Beechwood club, Beechwood Road, Bristol, BS16 BTP
The Beechwood club is a lovely community venue just off Fishponds Road. (See below for map). There is a free public car park right next door, and it is close to local shops, cafes and bus services.
If this does not work for you, please see my classes page, for other options. If none of these suit you, have a look at the UK national Tai Chi site