Frequently Asked Questions

What does Tai Chi mean?
"Tai Chi" means "Supreme Ultimate". This relates to the "Tao" or "Way of Nature". The ancient Chinese endeavoured to live in harmony with nature to gain the full benefits of life. Tai Chi reflects this ideal.

The full name "Tai Chi Chuan" translates as "Supreme Ultimate Fighting Art" This speaks for it's self!

Who can do Tai Chi?
Any able bodied person can practice Tai Chi regardless of age or fitness level. There is even a method of practicing for people who can't stand. Many conditions that would restrict someone in most exercise can actually be improved by Tai Chi.

Is Tai Chi easy to do?
You can work at your own level of comfort, so it need not be massively physically demanding. There are ways of pushing yourself harder if you are interested in accelerating the increased fitness levels you can achieve.

The "Tai Chi Form" can be confusing and difficult to learn at first until your coordination improves. With a little patience and perseverance the movements will soon become deeply relaxing yet invigorating to perform.

Do I need to wear a uniform?
We like to promote a relaxed, laid back atmosphere in our classes so uniforms are not compulsory. There is an option of buying an HTK T-shirt (we find this gives people a sense of being part of the School).

What style of Tai Chi do you teach?
We teach the Traditional "Yang Style" syllabus as taught by Master John Ding (sixth generation Yang Style lineage). This was invented by Grand Master Yang Lu Chan around 200 years ago and is the most popular style worldwide.

Master/ Lineage (what is the significance)?
To learn Tai Chi Chuan to its full potential it is important to seek out a Master (or someone certified to teach by one). This is because of the hidden complexity of the art which can be misinterpreted, thereby watering down its true depth.

When a Tai Chi Master passes down his knowledge to his/her chosen Disciple (traditionally their son/daughter or sometimes a person of exceptional character) the next Master in the Lineage is created.

When will I feel any benefits?
You can immediately feel more relaxed or energized, and the physical or emotional benefits can be experienced after a few weeks of practice. The better you get at Tai Chi, the better you feel!

How often should I practice?
This is personal. People normally start with a weekly class, and depending on their motivation to advance may start another, and practice at home in their own time. The more practice, the greater the benefit, and the quicker the advancement.

Can I get hurt?
Because Tai Chi is mainly slow and controlled, the risk of injury is very small. As with other exercise, the body may ache a little afterwards as the muscles develop.

The self-defence side of the art (which is not compulsory) is relatively more controlled than other martial arts (we don't try and kick and punch each other!) and injury is very rare. We work cooperatively in order to help each other progress with our practice.





What is complementary health?
Complementary health is a broad term used to encompass a wide range of therapies and treatments that differ from conventional medicine. They focus on the individual as they work to enhance the body's own ability to fight illness and disease. They emphasize 'wellness' and aim to maintain balance within the body at both an emotional and physical level, preventing illness and relieving symptoms to restore good health.

How many treatments will I need?
It is not possible to say exactly how many treatments any one person will need as everyone is different and therefore has individual needs. Each case is assessed through a thorough consultation and a tailor-made treatment plan is formed. Generally for chronic complaints, we recommend a course of four to six treatments to see long term results.

How long does the treatment take?
Sessions normally last for 1 hour including consultation (the treatment itself about 45 mins). Back, neck and shoulder massage is also available and takes about 25 mins.

What should I wear?
The client remains fully clothed (including socks) during a Shiatsu treatment, something loose and comfortable is best.

Acupressure/Sports/Remedial Massage requires a client to partially undress depending on the area to be worked on. The client's modesty is of high importance and they are covered appropriately at all times.

Can I eat before a treatment?
It is best not to eat during the hour prior to treatment, but if you need to then a light snack is preferable.

Does it hurt?
Massage is deeply relaxing but occasionally some areas may be tender, especially if there is a lot of tension in the body. We like to think of this as "good pain" the tenderness eases with the muscle tension.

When will I feel any benefits?
You can be feel immediately more relaxed and stress free following a treatment.

Are there any side effects?
Sometimes following a treatment, mild feelings of nausea, headache, or lightheadedness may be experienced. These are perfectly normal responses, and are the result of the body releasing toxins following the stimulation of the lymphatic system.