The workshops feature Chinese northern style martial arts with an emphasis on strength training for self defense. Qigong means breathing exercises, and is a form of meditation. Much of the medical benefits of Tai Chi come from these associated qigong exercises. The second discipline is be Tantui, or "long fist". Tantui is a series of forms based on different animals. The forms are fairly short, unlike most Tai Chi, making Tantui easier to learn. Tantui is used to train students in the basic stances or postures, and gives students a basic structure as well as some self-defense moves. Tantui is also about stretching, and preserves and increases student's flexibility. Here is where you will really see a difference between what the kids can do, and what their parents can do. The third is the Yang Style Tai Chi form. Tai Chi is a meditation in motion as well as a martial art. We will teach proper breathing as we move through the form. Students will learn the form gradually. The tai chi form will teach the students about circular motion, and the benefits of yielding and softness.

John is a Fourth Degree Black Belt with more than 20 years of training in the martial arts. He is also a registered acupuncturist, licensed in the state of Pennsylvania and is National Board certified by the NCCAOM. http://www.daoacupuncture.com/ As founder and Master Instructor of the Ba'z Tai Chi and Kung Fu Studio, he teaches all levels of the Wu Tan system of martial arts. Together with Qi Gong and meditation, focus is placed on improving one’s health and quality of life. For more information on Tai Chi see the studio's website at baztaichi.com.