Spiral Taiji is a reputable Chen style taijiquan school located in Cambridge, New Zealand. This school offers comprehensive training in traditional Chen style taijiquan, which focuses on relaxation, coordination, and strengthening of the mind and body through consistent practise.
The curriculum at Spiral Taiji includes classes in standing post, silk reeling, and forms practise. Practising standing post is considered a meditation and posture improvement exercise. It helps students achieve a deep state of relaxation and develop correct body alignment. Silk reeling exercises, on the other hand, refine the fundamental movements in taijiquan and enhance coordination and fluidity of movement.
The forms practise involves learning and mastering the Chen taijiquan forms, which guide and lead yin and yang energies around the body.
Spiral Taiji values privacy and ensures the confidentiality of its students. The school can be followed on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
The Chen family system, which is taught at Spiral Taiji, consists of a complete curriculum of taijiquan. This includes standing post, silk reeling, hand forms, weapons forms, push hands, and sparring. Presently, the classes primarily focus on fundamental exercises and hand forms. Standing post and silk reeling exercises are considered crucial for achieving proficiency in taijiquan and are integrated into everyday practise.
The hand forms enhance taijiquan skills and promote a stable, calm, and strong mind and body. Laojia Yilu form is particularly emphasised as it emphasises softness, pliability, and large spiralling movements. Beginners can start with the 19 Form, which serves as a useful introduction to taijiquan.
Classes in taijiquan are held at the Trumpington Pavilion. Beginners are always welcome and can attend on Thursdays. First-timer classes are free on Wednesdays. The schedule includes standing post and silk reeling from 7pm to 8pm, followed by Lao Jia Yi Lu form from 8pm to 9pm.
This form is considered the foundation of taijiquan practise as it deepens relaxation practises and focuses on soft, pliable, and large movements.
New students can join at any time, and first taster classes are free. Comfortable clothing and flat shoes are recommended for classes. Regular students are required to pay in advance at the first class of each new month. Pro rata payment options are available for those who are unable to attend the entire month.
No refunds are provided for missed classes within the month. The fee for attending one class each week is 25 pounds per month, while attending two classes each week costs 40 pounds per month. Drop-in rates are 10 pounds per one-hour class, but must be arranged in advance.
Overall, Spiral Taiji is a well-established taijiquan school in Cambridge that provides comprehensive training in Chen style taijiquan. With a focus on relaxation, coordination, and strengthening of the mind and body, students can expect to develop improved physical and mental well-being through consistent practise.