Class Info

How much do Tai Chi classes cost?
First class is free! Come along and try Tai Chi with Five Islands Tai Chi and see if you like it.
Regular classes are $15 per class. Pay on the day.
If you do two or more classes in one week, second class is $10.
Fit in a class when you can, and pay only when you come.

What should I wear to Tai Chi Class?
Wear comfortable clothes that you can move in, and comfortable flat soled shoes like sneakers. No high heels, thongs or bare feet for safety please.
If you're coming to an early class before work there are change rooms, but in most cases you can do tai chi in what you wear to work. Please avoid heels and constrictive clothing. You need to be able to take a reasonably wide step.

Are these Tai Chi classes for beginners?
Beginners are welcome at Five Islands Tai Chi any time. We can adjust classes to suit participants. Tai chi can be enjoyed together with a mix of beginners and experienced participants learning and practicing together.

Do I need to register before attending Tai Chi class?
No need to register for classes at Five Islands Tai Chi. All of our classes are on a casual basis. Turn up and try a class for free the first time, then come along whenever you can make it.

Do I have to start Tai Chi classes at the beginning of term, or can I start any time?
You can start Tai Chi classes any time and the best time is straight away.
We can adjust classes to suit beginners dropping in, while still providing extra depth for long term participants. We do like to focus on working our way through learning a form during the term, but you can follow along and catch up at any point.

Do I need any equipment to do Tai Chi?
No, you don't need any equipment to do Tai Chi. Just bring yourself in your comfy clothes. If we need to use any equipment, we will provide it.

I have mobility issues/ arthritis/ difficulty standing for a long time/ other medical issues. Can I do Tai Chi?
Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program. That said, Tai Chi is a gentle exercise and we can adjust exercises to accommodate a variety of needs. Many of our Tai Chi forms can be performed seated and we always have chairs available if you need one.

What Tai Chi Forms do you teach at Five Islands Tai Chi?
At Five Islands Tai Chi we often adjust our classes depending on the mix of participants on any given day.
As an example, in our Balgownie Class over the past few terms we have been learning Shibashi Qigong Set 1 and Set 2, and we are working our way through Dr Paul Lam's Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention Parts 1 & 2. In our Wollongong classes we have been doing the same, as well as Yang Style 8 Form with an eye to moving on to 24 Form next. If we're feeling adventurous we might try other Qi Gong exercises,  or Tai Chi Bang Sticks (sticks provided).

I've practised Tai Chi for many years. Will I fit in with your class?
If you have practised Tai Chi for years, we're sure you understand that much of the joy of Tai Chi can be found in quietly practicing in a group and finding a flow in movement together. While you may not learn any new moves, we hope you might find some depth of learning from a new perspective, or simply enjoy the companionship of practising together with fellow Tai Chi enthusiasts.