A typical class

A typical beginning level work table with (from the top left clockwise) optional suglasses, water bottle,

t-shirt, rubber ball, [the DVD and picture of Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei would be for remote and

internet students only] a Cool Wrap, a tai chi ruler, two padded batons, shoes, an optional mouthguard,

a cap and a bag. Optional wrist-based biosensors, ear buds and eyeglass strap not shown.

A gong sounds and class formally begins with an exchange of bows and salutes between the instructor and

the students. Students begin with a few minutes of seated meditation on chairs. Usually the instructor

corrects postures. Sitting is followed by a few minutes of WuJi standing meditation and then traditional

warm-up exercises. If the class is learning the 18 movements set the last lesson will be reviewed. We will

then do 18 movements twice. There is then a short break for water - bottles are always available on a table.

A lesson featuring the tai chi ruler tool follows and the class then does the ruler exercises. Next there is

is usually a lesson on the next movements for the Lao Jia (Old Frame) set followed by doing the set. Then

we take a break for a light snack - 13 Treasures. In the early stages of training this is followed by a set

using a single padded half-length staff. This gradually changes to an unpadded half-length staff and then

to two unpadded half-length staffs. The class will review the previous lesson on the double maces set and

then do that set. As proficiency increases the class will do saber, sword, staff and spear. Then a brief break

for water (*) followed by tai chi bang (another tool) and ball exercises and a qigong routine such as Eight

Brocades or Yi Jin Jing. Reminders of future events are followed by formal salutes and bows to close the

class. Water bottles get returned; clothes are changed; and another fingertip swipe confirms the exit.

Parents and interested parties will be emailed the day's scores. * = or one of several select teas

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