How do I book a class?
Click on the All Classes link from the “Book a Class”menu. You then add your class to the basket.
Then when you have added all of the classes that you would like to book, you go to the Checkout (as you would buy any product online).
I can’t book a class.
Nearly every time this happens, it is because you are not logged in. Please log in and try again. If not, contact Mark on 07834 375776 or mark.stevenson@whitecraneacademy.com
Do I need to subscribe?
No you don’t need to subscribe. You can book the lessons on a drop-in basis and pay lesson-by-lesson or use a class pass.
One type of subscription is for those who want to attend my morning 10-10.30 Skype qigong classes. We call this the Phoenix subscription.
Or if you train 2-3 times per week on a regular basis, you will find that paying a monthly subscription to train as many classes as you want to will work out better financially. This is the Tiger subscription.
If you want to include the Skype classes and the Tiger subscription, you can select the Crane Subscription.
Please keep in mind though, that the subscriptions are for a 12 month commitment.
Why should I commit to 12 months? Why can’t I cancel my membership whilst I am on holiday?
With a subscription you get the chance to train in many lessons each week, this means that the cost per lesson for you is comparatively a very low price (if you train enough).
The deal with the subscriptions for these low cost weekly lessons is that they do not get cancelled or paused in the 12 month period, as you would expect with something like a gym membership.
If you don’t think this payment method is for you, then the class passes may be more suitable.
What are the differences between tai chi and kung fu?
Fundamentally, tai chi is an internal martial art, whilst kung fu is external.
What this means for you in practice is that the tai chi classes are more gentle and we focus on slower, soft movements. In kung fu the moves are quicker and we develop and use more muscular power for the movements.
Remember though that Chinese martial arts are based on the principles of yin and yang. Therefore, within softness (yin) there is hardness (yang) – and vice versa.
So within tai chi (particularly Chen) there are faster movements, and within kung fu there are slower and soft movements.
Whichever class you attend, you are supported and encouraged to train at a level suitable for you, whilst gradually supported in your learning and improving.
Am I too old to learn tai chi?
No
Am I too young to learn tai chi?
No
Are there videos of the forms to help me practice?
For the tai chi, yes. Speak to Mark or Hamish in class. Or email Mark mark.stevenson@whitecraneacademy.com
Looking at You Tube, etc, won’t really help as you find that different instructors do even the same form quite differently.
Can I find the names of the moves online?
Yes, here
Can I find the kids’ kung fu grading requirements online?
Yes, here. Contact Mark for the passwords.
How long will it take me to learn tai chi?
This depends on several factors, such as how often you attend class, whether you can practice in between classes, how well you remember the moves.
Everyone is different. The important thing to remember about tai chi is that it is not something that can be learnt and fully understood quickly. It is better to know just a few moves well, than lots of moves incorrectly.