Final Results Fitness Tai Chi Academy
About Tai Chi Chuan
Tai Chi Chuan is a Chinese exercise system and a martial art. The literal translation of the name is “Supreme Ultimate Fist”. Many people associate Tai Chi with the image of a large group of people in a park in China moving slowly in unison through a series of "dance like" movements. This is one aspect of the art, although the complete system encompasses much more than simply performing a series of movements.
Tai Chi training is based on slow, continuous, gentle and flowing movements of the whole body and a calm, focused, and centered state of mind. Tai Chi is an exercise practiced by millions daily in China, and is gaining popularity around the world. Our classes focus on the standardized syllabus (8-step, 16-step, 24-step, 32-step, etc.) for beginners. Students may go on to study the traditional Yang Style "Long Form", traditional Sun Style, the International Competition Routines (42-step, 42 Sword), Weapons (Broadsword, Straight Sword, Spear, Fan), and Push-Hands (two-person work).
The Benefits of Tai Chi
Improved health, flexibility, balance, strength, relaxation and mental calmness and focus are benefits proven by a series of studies of Tai Chi in a medical setting. The Tai Chi practitioner focuses on correct posture, rooting, breath, flexibility, relaxation, mind/body connection, and a centered, focused, calm and alert state of mind. In studies at major hospitals and Universities Tai Chi has been shown to be effective in providing support for those suffering with pain from Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Shingles, and a variety of other conditions. For those people attracted to martial arts training, Tai Chi represents a balance between soft, yielding, and redirecting principles and relaxed applications of force through rooted and whole body integrated movements. It’s effectiveness does not depend on size, strength or speed, making it an appropriate martial art for anyone to learn regardless of age or physical attributes.
Class Price
$10 per class for the public. $5 per class for members.
Tai Chi & Qigong
Join us on Fridays at 5:30 am for our "OPEN" class. Everyone is welcome to attend and beginning or less experienced students will benefit from the opportunity to work with advanced students as we enhance our balance, flexibility, and foundation skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I don't want to learn a martial art should I still join the class?
Yes, absolutely! Most students are only interested in the health and meditative aspects of Tai Chi, while some students will want to pursue its martial applications as well. Our classes are designed to accommodate both types of students. Each student is encouraged to pursue their own interests.
Is the class suitable for beginners as well as advanced students?
Yes, we are offering classes ssuitable for beginners as well as students with Tai Chi experience.
What is the typical class structure?
The class begins with gentle warm ups. Next, we’ll review material we’ve covered previously. We’ll follow that with a demonstration and explanation of new material, and we’ll practice together. Questions and discussion are encouraged and are an important part of the learning process. The class concludes with a cool down routine and closing.
About Dr. CJ Rhoads
Tai Chi and Qigong expert Dr. CJ Rhoads is an integrative health practice researcher, and has 30 years of experience in Tai Chi and Qigong. When you take her class you will hear her personal story about how Tai Chi and Qigong got her out of pain to live a healthier, fuller life after devastating injuries from a car accident. Learn self-defense and develop leadership disciplines as well!
There are several styles of Taijiquan. Dr. CJ Rhoads has studied the following styles:
- Xin 8, 10, 24, 42
- Yang 37 (Chen Man-Ching)
- Yang, 88, 108, (Traditional & Yang Zhenduo)
- Sun 108 & Dr. Lam for Arthritis
- Taiji Sword and Taiji
- Fan EBT 7 & Chen 16
Dr. Rhoads has also developed a Pain-Freeing Qigong. She has studied with the following teachers: Betsy Chapman, Sara Gellhorn, Steve Higgins, Janet Louise, Rick Marth, Maggie Newman, and Yang Yang.
She has also traveled extensively to attend Tai Chi workshops and camps with some of the world's foremost experts including: Li Deyin, Ben Lo, Nick Gracenin, Ma Hailong., Yang Jwing Ming, Wolf Lowenthal, Zeng Nailiang, Bill Phillips, Jou Tsung Hwa, Peter Warr , Wu Wenhan, Wu Kwong Yu , Sun Yongtian, Cheng Xianhao, Yang Zhenduo, Chen Zhenglei and many others.
Finally, CJ Rhoads has competed both nationally and internationally in Chinese Martial Arts tournaments, has won 3 Bronze, 3 Silver, and 1 Gold medal. She is also the 2009 Women's National Champion in Push Hands.
