Curam de Cara

What is Tai – Chi  Anyway?

Most people know of Tai- Chi from seeing videos of groups of Chinese practicing in the parks and thinking   that they would like to try it out but never actually get to do it , because they don’t know where to go or what to expect in terms of the benefits of doing Tai – Chi .

If this is your experience, look no more, we can help you,

Curam de Cara is running Tai – Chi Classes at the K2C Centre, Unit 3 North Point Business Park every Monday from 8.15 to 9.30 pm.  With  Master  Liang  Shen  , where we cater for both beginners and advanced students .

For anyone who has never attended a Tai- Chi Class we have answered the following   Frequently Asked Questions 

Q ----- Who is Master Liang Shen

A ----- Master Liang is a native of Shanghai where he studied various forms of martial arts under many famous teachers until he eventually gained the rank of 5^th Dan in Wu- Shu.(Chinese Martial Arts ) He is also a highly skilled practitioner and  teacher of Tai- Chi . His obvious prowess earned him his appointment as Chief Martial Arts Instructor at Shanghai University.

He is presently studying at UCC for a H. Dip in Sports History and will hopefully  be with us for the next 3 to 4 years. Shanghais loss is our good fortune and we at Curam de Cara realise how very lucky we are to have him as one of our Tai- Chi instructor.

Q  ---- What are the benefits of practising Tai – Chi

A -------It’s a great way to increase your flexibility and core strength.

            Helps you to de-stress, makes you calmer and more relaxed.

            You will feel fitter and healthier;

            it’s absolutely safe and very enjoyable.

Q  -----Is it only for old people ;

A ------ NO  ---everybody benefits, be they ladies , gents , boys or girls , in fact the younger  you  start  the better , presently our group ranges from age  14 to 74                                                      

Q ----Its looks very difficult, how long will it take me to learn 

A ------ Tai – Chi is a lifelong study but the basic elements are fairly easy to pick up , lessons  are carefully  planned so that everyone can progress at their own pace .

Q-----I am self conscious and am afraid I will look awkward

A ---- We all felt a little awkward at first but Master Liang is very good at putting you at ease, you also soon realise that the other beginners are too busy concentrating on themselves to notice you and the more experienced students are only too happy to assist you .

Q ----- I am already very fit, how will Tai –Chi benefit me.

A -----Most forms of exercise help to make you fitter and stronger however very few of them help you to relax and channel your energy. Tai –Chi exercises help to keep your body soft and pliant and this helps to prevent (and recover from) injuries especially of the impact variety. It can also be used as a very effective warm down regime which will improve your recovery rate and allow you to train more frequently.

Q --------- I am recovering from an operation

                 I have a lower back problem

                 I suffer from Arthritis

                 Is it too dangerous for me to do physical exercise

A -----You should always consult your doctor before taking up any new physical activity but generally speaking Tai- Chi is one of the most ancient and safest forms of exercise known to mankind  and you will almost certainly feel its benefits. Medical studies have been carried out which can confirm this belief. (See our intro leaflet)

Q----- Can I watch a class before deciding to join?

A ------Certainly, just pop into the centre any Mon. from May 10 onwards

Q ------How much does it cost

A ------ We work in 6 week modules costing € 60

Q ----- Do I need a special uniform?

A ------ NO --- a comfortable track suit will be fine

Q ------ How do I join

Call into the centre or ring us on the hot line @ 086-1580560