Close

Traditional Tai Chi Chuan

The authentic art is internal – feel the difference

Traditional Tai Chi Chuan

Seek stillness in motion

Strong Body, Still Mind

Un­like most forms of exercise and sport, Tai Chi doesn’t rely on strength, force and speed, which makes it ideal for everyone – young and old, strong or not.          There are three main aspects to learning the traditional Chinese art:
Centralising Chi (Energy)
Circulating Chi (Energy)
Applying Chi (Energy)

Centralising Chi (Energy)

The first element focuses on bringing the energy – Chi – to the Tan Tien point in the abdomen. We do this through Chi Kung at the start of every class. It quietens the mind and relaxes the body 

Find out more
Circulating Chi (Energy)

The second element is the Tai Chi Chuan form, which circulates the Chi through the body. This what most people mean when they think of Tai Chi – the moving sequence of postures that is so attractive to watch

Find out more
Applied Chi (Energy)

The third element is the application of Chi in partner exercises known as Gau Sau, or exchange of hands, to experience Tai Chi Principles in practice. It is a chance for both parties to help each other refine movements and postures and gain better insight and understanding of applied energy

Find out more

Master Ding Academy

Established since 1990 and exists to preserve and promote authentic Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan.

We teach the traditional Chinese art, passed down through the Yang Style lineage, from Yang Lu Chan (1799-1872) to the present day.

Our Classes

Explore your options

Classes are held during the evening.

They are open to all to all levels. If you are a beginner, we recommend our six-week introductory course to start your Tai Chi journey

Find a class
Private Group and bespoke work

Interested in running a closed class for your staff in your company or organisation or private group? A dedicated group class can help:

  • focus on specific aspects of tai chi  such as mindfulness, relaxation. 
  • group work development of advanced aspects of tai chi

Group facilitators are available across Berkshire and further afield. Contact us to discuss your requirements

Find your nearest instructor
Workshops

In workshops we focus on the Tai Chi principles at the core of the true internal art and their application within the form. Attending any of these will help you further your understanding and improve your Tai Chi skills. Open to members and non-members. Choose your topic and book your place. 

Go to calendar
Private lessons

One-to-one tuition is available on request.

Available in class or local location, within Newbury. Please get in touch for further details.

Contact us
Masterclasses

Master Ding visits many European cities, including London, for long weekends of open workshops and closed Instructor sessions.

Open sessions are available to all to attend. These offer an opportunity to experience traditional Tai Chi Chuan with a lineage holder of the ancient Chinese art. Check the calendar, book your place.

Find out more
Instructor development

An academy is only as good as the teaching it offers. MDA Instructors undergo continuous personal development to ensure they are not only continuing to build on their own Tai Chi skills but are also refining their teaching approach so that students will benefit.

Contact MDA HQ for more details about our instructor training programme: 

info@masterdingacademy.com

Find out more
a

Is there a spiritual side to Tai Chi Chuan?

People start Tai Chi Chuan for all sorts of reasons – from meeting new people to keeping fit. We support all students in whatever their endeavours may be and welcome everyone whatever their religious background. There are no religious connotations to what we offer at Master Ding Academy

a

What is the difference between Traditional Yang Style and other forms of Tai Chi Chuan

Learning traditional yang style tai chi  follows the methods passed down by the Yang family masters. The benefits and rewards are enormous for those who continue on the journey. Health aspects and martial skill are explored in your practice, through testing your understanding of the tai chi principles. It is this facet which allows the practitioner to reach the higher levels of tai chi in a much faster development time.

a

What is unique about the Master Ding Academy?

Of the thousands of people who take up Tai Chi, only a few will actually develop enough skill to teach, and fewer still have the ability to truly demonstrate the Tai Chi principles, expressing Tai Chi’s legendary softness. Master Ding is fully committed to transmitting this art to those who continue to work and improve the quality of their Tai Chi. All MDA’s instructors are regularly assessed to ensure that they maintain the high standard expected. Further, Master Ding is accessible to students and instructors through workshops, seminars and retreats.

Start your Journey

Take your first step

Find a Class Tai Chi Chuan benefits 6 week beginner course