Classes
Hiromi T’ai Chi offers two distinct tracks for students:
To choose a course of study that is right for you, please contact Hiromi T'ai Chi to discuss your interest.
Cheng-Ming Track
Experience a complete system of martial art that integrates all three internal styles as was developed and passed down by Great Grandmaster Wang Shu-Jin. Students of Cheng-Ming progress systematically through the curriculum.
99-step T'ai Chi (Taiji) was created to preserve the essence of T'ai Chi Ch'uan. Great Grandmaster Wang Shu-Jin incorporated Hsing-I and Ba Gua fundamentals into this form. We teach this form in stages, starting with the 14-step form. Its slow steady pace provides an invigorating workout while calming the mind and reducing stress and develops the calmness and suppleness essential for training in the internal martial arts. No previous skill is required.
Hsing-I (Xing-Yi) translates as "Form and Mind." Hsing-I develops mind intent and fa-jing (expressed force). It is based on powerful linear forms and fist sets derived from the Five Element Theory. Training continues with linking forms and the 12-Animal fists. Various weapon forms (short stick, sword, and staff) will be introduced at this level. Prerequisite: Completion of 99-step T'ai Chi.
Children and adolescents can start with Hsing-I, because it helps channel their excess energy while helping them to develop confidence, cultivate calm, and achieve a disciplined mind.
Ba Gua (Pa Kua) translates "Eight Trigrams." It is based on the I-Ching and characterized by its "circle walking" combined with palm changes. The complex and beautiful Ba Gua is considered the "crown jewel" of the internal martial arts. Ba Gua is a vast curriculum reserved for advanced students. Prerequisite: Completion of both 99-step T'ai Chi and Hsing-I.
Standing Meditation (Zhan Zhuang) is a form of Ch'i Kung (Qigong) training. These sets are fundamental to developing proper posture and conditioning, while promoting healing. Meditation helps students improve their sensitivity to both external and internal movement. Standing Meditation is integrated at every level of training.
Ch'i Kung (Qigong) Track
Eight Pieces of Brocade: The most widely practiced form, to be performed sitting or standing.
22-set Ch'i Kung: A balanced set of warm-ups, standing meditation, movement exercise and reclining meditation created by Master Wang Sheng-Zhi, senior disciple of Great Grandmaster Wang Shu-Jin.
Five Animal Frolics: An ancient style in which the movements of five animals were copied for their martial arts and therapeutic value. Good foundation for T’ai Chi practice.
Incense Ch’i Kung: A set of 15 postures mostly requires simple upper body movement. Good for beginners and the elderly.
15-set T'ai Chi Ch'i Kung: Developed by Master Li Tian-Ji in Beijing, China. Movements are based on T'ai Chi and require flowing movements coordinated with breath and intention.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are available by appointment. Call Hiromi at (434) 244-0999, or send email to Hiromi.