By Tai Chi instructor Roz Pocius

Tai Chi, or more properly T’ai chi ch’uan, is an internal style of Chinese martial art that is hugely popular in China and is practised throughout the world, mainly for its health benefits.

There are many different styles of Tai Chi, but Yang is the most well-known form. Tai Chi is often combined with gentle Qi Gong (pronounced ‘chee gong’) exercise, a form of moving meditation.

Tai Chi is safe and low impact and regular practice can result in many benefits, including reducing the physical effects of stress, as well as improving balance and leg strength.   

Since 2010, Thirroul locals may remember seeing Sifu Jason Biondo and his Silk Dragon Academy students practising Tai Chi and Qi Gong at Thirroul Beach Park and in the Austinmer Surf Club. When Covid-19 arrived in 2020, face-to-face classes disappeared. More recently, there has been renewed interest in the health benefits of practising this ancient art.

There are several instructors teaching and groups in Thirroul and around the Illawarra. It may be useful to sample different styles before deciding which type and teaching method suits you best.

For example, there is a class combining Qi Gong and Tai Chi at 9.30am most Saturdays on the reserve behind Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club. Beginners are welcome.   

Those interested in learning the traditional Yang style 108 Tai Chi form; Shaolin 32 form Tai Chi; Qi Gong styles and weapons are welcome at the Austinmer Surf Club on Tuesdays at 7.30pm.

Call Sifu Adam (0409 701 790) for Tuesday classes at Austi. Contact Ric for Saturday classes at Thirroul Park