If you have ever watched someone perform the art of Tai Chi before, you probably already know that each movement is slow, coordinated, and perfected. This can make it a little intimidating to attend your first Tai Chi class. With that said, there is nothing to be intimidated about. Everyone learns Tai Chi at their own pace, and instructors are always understanding of individual needs. But to calm your mind, let’s answer a few commonly asked questions regarding your first Tai Chi classes.
What should I wear to my first class?
Tai Chi requires a great deal of bending, stretching, and moving. As such, you will want to wear clothes that are comfortable and stretchy. While you want to be able to move in your clothes, you also want to make sure that they are not too baggy, as this can also make movements difficult. You should bring a sweatshirt along with you for the end of class, but make sure the clothes you wear are cool – you will be working up a sweat!
What if I don’t know the moves?
If you are attending your first Tai Chi class, you won’t know the moves. You may feel silly and have a hard time keeping up with more advanced Tai Chi students, but it is always important to remember that everyone needs to start somewhere. Even the most coordinated students were beginners at once and all beginners struggle during their first few classes. Pay attention and do your best – the rest will come with time.
What is the appropriate class etiquette?
Class etiquette in Tai Chi comes down to one thing – respecting those around you. Try to show up to class 5-10 minutes before class begins. If you are late, come in quietly and wait for the instructor to invite you in. Other than that, listen carefully to your instructor and be respectful of those around you. If you have any questions, save them until the end of class. Finally, try your best. You won’t learn the movements over night, but if you try your hardest every class, you will catch on quickly.
What should I do when I get frustrated?
If you have never taken part in a Tai Chi class before, you will definitely become frustrated at some point. Tai Chi movements are very technical and coordinated and take a long time to master – which can be very frustrating for new students. The key to handling this frustration is practice. The more you practice, the quicker you will learn and the less frustrated you will become. In the meantime, just remember that everyone starts in the same place – you are not expected to learn the moves right away, just have patience with yourself!
Before attending your first Tai Chi class at TCSociety.com, it is recommended that you watch one or two classes first. This will help you to become more familiar with the pace of the class, the atmosphere of the class, and a few of the moves. Watching classes beforehand will also give you the opportunity to meet some students so that you can become comfortable with your peers when attending your first class.