Midwest Branch
New Class FAQs
- What does it cost?
- Do I have to wait until the next session to start?
- Can I take classes anywhere?
- What is it like to be a Member?
- What will you learn in beginner class?
- How should I dress?
- What happens after the beginner class?
- Who attends our classes?
- May I visit a class?
- More FAQs on the internal arts and methods of the Taoist Tai Chi Society of the USA
What does it cost?
The Taoist Tai Chi Society® is a volunteer charitable organization. Dues are tax-deductible. We have monthly, quarterly, yearly rates and new member packages. No one is ever turned away for financial reasons. Please contact us for details.
Member allows you to attend as many classes a week as you like at your level.
Do I have to wait until the next session to start?
No. Some poeple feel comfortable jumping in after a class has started, some do not. Please feel free to drop by and judge for yourself.
What is it like to be a Member?
Members may attend any class, anywhere. The Taoist Tai Chi Society of the USA has many branches and locations around the country. Internationally, the International Taoist Tai Chi Society has member organizations throughout the world. When you travel, you can improve your practice by visiting and practicing with members throughout the USA and the rest of the world.
When you are ready to register as a member, you will need to complete the registration form, which is available at any of our locations. Please visit our International and USA websites for locations of other branches. You can register at the first class by filling out a registration form. One of the aims and objectives of the Society is to make the health benefits of taijiquan available to all, regardless of financial ability. Suggested contributions can be reduced or waived for those in need.
What will you learn in beginner class?
Our beginner class offers a friendly environment in which to introduce students to the 108 moves of the Taoist Tai Chi™ internal art of taijiquan. In each class one of our nationally-accredited instructors will demonstrate the moves, explain their benefit, and give you guidance on how to perform each move correctly. Beginner classes last three to four months. After that, you go into continuing classes and deepen your practice with more sitting and stretching.
In the Midwest, beginner classes are offered in Arlington Heights, Chicago, Lombard and Iowa City. Visitors are always welcome.
How should I dress?
Loose fitting clothes that allow you to move freely are best. We recommend pants or shorts and a t-shirt and comfortable shoes such as gym shoes that don’t have too much of a tread.
What happens after the beginner class?
After completing the beginner course, students move into continuing classes, which are taught by instructors who have been certified to teach more advanced skills. Learning the internal art of taijiquan is a life-long process in which one discovers many layers of development. With diligent daily practice you will notice changes in your health and physiology. In this way, you benefit from a comprehensive training path.
Who attends our classes?
Our students include a diverse group of people of all ages, ranging from teenagers to seniors. We offer a friendly, welcoming environment for people of all physical abilities to learn and practice taijiquan at their own pace.
May I visit a class?
Yes, you are welcome to visit any of our regularly scheduled classes. At our beginner classes, you can observe how students learn the moves step-by-step. Visiting a continuing class will give you the opportunity to see the entire set performed by a group. Drop in at any of our regularly scheduled classes in Chicago, Arlington Heights or Lombard. Feel free to call or email us for more information.