Spring Tai Chi classes and student updates

The advanced Tai Chi class at SaddleBrooke One

The advanced Tai Chi class at SaddleBrooke One

Carol Emerson

Every week there are two beginning Tai Chi classes in SaddleBrooke so, if you’ve been thinking that it is something you might want to try, now is the time! Carol and Ken Emerson are certified black belt instructors and have been teaching in our community since 2006. Both have extensive backgrounds in the martial arts and are great teachers. Tai Chi has many benefits and over time helps us become stronger, healthier, more flexible and peaceful in both body and mind and is something we can continue to do as we grow older.

In the beginning class you will learn and practice a short Tai Chi sequence from the Yang family tradition. While a bit challenging (because the moves are unfamiliar), if you stick with it, Tai Chi can bring strength, balance and relaxation to the practitioner. We have had so many people say how it has helped them both physically and emotionally.

If you would like to advance and learn more, there is an intermediate class where you build on what you have learned in the beginning class to add more moves and develop strength, balance and memory even more. In the advanced class, students work on the entire 108 move sequence!

We are pleased to announce the promotions of John Reingruber, Patrick Mauer, and Marge Osborn-O’Dom to the rank of blue belt in January. All three are dedicated students whose accomplishment reflects the time and dedication they put into their training. Belt ranking is a traditional way of recognizing progress in martial arts. Though most often seen in the hard styles of Karate and Tae Kwon Do, ranking in the internal styles is becoming more common.

If you see John, Pat or Marge, please congratulate them on their accomplishment!

Beginning Classes: Thursday, 11:00 to 11:50 a.m. in the HOA 2 Fitness Room near Mesquite Grille and Friday, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the HOA 1 Fitness Center

Intermediate Class: Saturday, noon to 1:00 p.m. in the HOA 1 Fitness Center

Advanced Class: Saturday, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. in the HOA 1 Fitness Center

Private lessons are also available.

Cost: Beginning classes are $11 per class or six classes for $54 if you buy the tickets. For more information, or to register, call Carol or Ken at 825-9206; private lessons by appointment.