Local Tai Chi demonstration

by Rob Benneian

The Windsor branch of Fung Loy Kok Taoist Tai Chi opened their doors Jan. 6 for a public demonstration of the steps involved in the popular Chinese martial art.

A group of approximately 15 instructors performed all 108 steps for members of the public who gathered to help celebrate their twenty-fourth anniversary, inviting observers to join them and learn the first three steps.

Garry Tabler came to the open house intending to sign up for classes. He said the slow-moving, rhythmic pace of Tai Chi was more his speed than typical workout routines.

“I need something to keep me busy,” Tabler said shortly after registering for the class. “I’m retired now. I’m starting to get a little sedentary and gain a little weight so I wanted to find something that would offset that a bit. I’m not much for regular gyms. They’re (too) competitive.”

According to the Canadian Taoist Tai Chi website, Master Moy Lin-Shin brought the martial art to Canada from China in 1970. The Central Region head office is located in Toronto and there are locations across Canada. The Windsor branch, located at 1367 Ouellette is one of  over 100 in Ontario.

“(Taoist Tai Chi) helps promote flexibility, good circulation, calmness. It’s an art that is promoted for health,” said Windsor branch president Kathryn Bulmer. “Tai Chi is good for the young and the old, even people with handicaps. It can be done in chairs if need be.”

For more information visit the Windsor Taoist Tai Chi website.