Meet Our Students
Over the years Jian Taiji have taught a wide variety of students at both public classes and organised groups. We asked some of them to comment on why they started Taiji and what keeps them coming. Below are their responses along with some photos of them in classes.
John - Reddish CC
I have had problems with my left hip for a few years, at times having to use a walking stick. Physiotherapy did not help much. Then I heard about the Tai Chi classes in Denton so decided to give it a try. I attend twice a week and find it very beneficial. The gentle exercise in a quiet friendly atmosphere not only helped my hip but my balance as I also suffer from vertigo. I no longer use the walking stick. I would recommend to anyone, any age. You're never too old to start, I am 77.
Peter - Denton West CC
I started going to Tai Chi classes to please my daughter (she seemed to think I was in need of some exercise) much to my surprise I really enjoyed it. I now go to two classes a week. I don't always get the movements right but there is no pressure, Janet and Ian are reassuring it will come right in time. I leave each class feeling very calm and looking forward to the next lesson.
Anne - Denton West and St Hilda's
I enjoy the Tai Chi class. It has a friendly atmosphere. The warm up exercises and routine help keep your joints moving, it is a relaxing way to keep fit. It is also enjoyable.
Mary - St Stephen's School
I'd had it in mind to try tai chi for years before I actually did so. Having now attended classes for over six months, it's an important part of my life as I aim, yet again, for the centred control and flowing movements that are so much a part of this art. It doesn't matter what I'm worried about, or even if I am very tired; the intense 'in the moment' experience of tai chi means that I end up refreshed both physically and mentally, and calmer emotionally. It's this deeply grounded stability and mindfulness that brings me back week after week.
Susan - St Stephen's School
I have been attending Ian and Jan's TAI CHI classes in Reddish for nearly a year and find it has helped my overall fitness and has greatly improved my balance and I would recommend it for all ages.
Adam - Reddish CC
I joined the Denton Tai Chi class in 2013, it's a very friendly class and Ian and Janet are very patient and encouraging and I really look forward to going. I feel that Tai Chi helps me with my anxiety and I always feel much better when I have been to class.
Sharon - Denton West CC
Having danced & skated previously I was attracted to Tai Chi because of the graceful controlled movements. I have found Tai Chi to be an enjoyable, relaxing form of exercise with many benefits. Regular practice has helped me to maintain/improve my flexibility, balance, concentration and memory and in my everyday life helps with stress to allow me to remain calm and focused. I enjoy the challenge of developing the skills necessary for me to be able to perform the movements as controlled and gracefully as they are when demonstrated by the instructors. This requires perseverance but is well worth the effort.
Janice - St Stephen's School
Alan - St Stephen's School
I am in my 70's and Tai Chi has helped me to keep active and improved my confidence. The exercises are easy to learn and progress to a sequence of movements which help with balance, relaxation and memory.
Sylvia - private student