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Tai Chi Classes

Posted by John Sweeney for Haenicke Institute for Global Education

Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art originally designed as a unique self-defense technique, which later evolved into an effective health exercise. Characterized by flowing, graceful, and well-balanced movements, Tai Chi strengthens both the body and mind, promoting complete harmony between the two. Through practicing Tai Chi, practitioners integrate the balance of Yin and Yang, the essence of nature, and the art of relaxation into their lives. Suitable for people of all ages, genders, and health conditions, Tai Chi is an ideal form of physical exercise for many.

Tai Chi classes are open to WMU faculty, staff, students and the community (18 and above).

LevelPrerequisiteDescription
Tai Chi Basic18 and above, able to stand and follow the movements for 1 hour.This course will introduce some essential Tai Chi principles such as controlled relaxation, mental quietness, breathing in depth, intent first etc. The class will practice 8 Trigrams and 5 steps. By the end of the session, students are expected to grasp these essentials and be able to practice basic Tai Chi movements independently.
Tai Chi Intermediate Has taken Tai Chi basic, and received the instructor's reference prior to registering for this class.This class will introduce and teach Cheng Man Ching 37 Form (CMC 37). CMC 37 was developed by Professor Cheng Man Ching. Regarded as the “Master of Five Excellences”, Cheng excelled in Poetry, calligraphy, painting, medicine, and Tai Chi. Originated from Yang Cheng Pu style, CMC 37 incorporated Cheng’s personal understanding derived from years of practice.
Tai Chi SeminarHas completed Tai Chi Intermediate and obtained the instructor's reference.This class aims to fine tune Tai Chi skills. By exploring the details and applications of CMC37, practicing the Eight Techniques, and engaging in partner exercises like pushing hands, participants will not only find enjoyment but also gain a deeper understanding of Tai Chi. The class also emphasizes the practice of internal principles to achieve the integration of mind, intent and energy.
Tai Chi FanHas taken Tai Chi basic, or has learned basic Tai Chi within 2 years prior to this class.The class will be engaging in the practice of the Chen Style 24 Form Tai Chi Fan. Tai Chi Fan presents a captivating dimension of Tai Chi that seamlessly blends martial arts techniques with the elegant motions of the fan. It offers an unique way to simultaneously train the body and nurture the mind. 
Tai Chi SwordHas 2 years of recent experience practicing Tai Chi and pass the instructor's evaluationThe class will be engaging in the practice of the Chen Style Tai Chi Sword. 
Seated Tai ChiNoneThis course will introduce some essential Tai Chi principles such as controlled relaxation, mental quietness, breathing in depth, intent first etc. The class will practice Qigong Baduanjin and 12 Form Seated Tai Chi. By the end of the session, students are expected to grasp these essentials and be able to practice basic Tai Chi movements independently.

Cost

Fall and Spring Classes

Each course costs $120. In addition to regular tuition, some courses may require a material fee.

Summer Classes

Each course costs $60. In addition to regular tuition, some courses may require a material fee.

Payment 

  • The cost for each class (and any applicable class materials fees) must be paid in full before or on the first day of class.
  • Payments may be made by check payable to WMU or through credit card. 

  • Asian Initiatives offers tuition discounts to qualified participants.

    Payment Method
    Pay Online:
    On the “Invoice Number” line, please write "CLCP01". You will receive a confirmation Email with a transaction ID, please fill in this number on the registration form.  
    NOTE: No WMU staff can enter payment information into this site using a WMU computer. This violates PCI requirements and will raise a red flag in the system, as we are connected to the WMU network.
    PAY ONLINE
    Pay by Check:
    Make check payable to WMU and mail to the address below. Please fill in the check number on the registration form.
    Asian Initiatives
    Ellsworth 2425E
    Haenicke Institute for Global Education
    1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49008-5245 

Discounts

  • 50% tuition discount to WMU students and community senior citizens (55 and above) 
  • $25/course for WMU employees 
  • For courses requesting a "Material fee" apart from the tuition cost, all participants must pay this fee in full. 

For example, if you are a WMU employee, and you want to take the Chinese Painting class that has a material fee of $30, the total amount you need to pay is $25 + $30 (material fee) = $55.  If you are a WMU student or community senior citizen, and you want to take the Chinese Painting class, the total amount you need to pay is $60 (50% discount ) + $30 (Material fee) = $90.  

Refund Policy

  • Application Deadline: Refund applications will be accepted until 01.25.2025. Any requests submitted after this date will not be considered.
  • Processing Timeline: All refund requests will be processed starting from 01.27.2025.
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Thursday, May 8, 2025
5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
4010 College of Health and Human Services, East Campus
Kalamazoo, MI 49008 US