Chiltern U3A

Since January 2023 we have adopted a new format for our Group meetings. Based on the core principles of u3a - 'by Members for Members' we do not have an external Tutor but use DvDs and the internet to source exercises that we learn and practice together. These exercises are based on traditional Tai Chi and Qi Gong (pronounced 'Chi Gong') forms.

As we do not have a 'professional' Tutor guiding us, it is the responsibility of each Member to self-assess their suitability. Although relaxed and relatively slow, you should have a level of fitness that allows you to stand throughout the hour (we don't sit or lie down for any of the movements), although chairs are available should at any time you need one! You must be able to balance and move without the need of aids.

Our meetings typically consist of a 20-minute 'Warm Up', followed by a 15-20 minute 'Guided Learning' and completed by a 10-minute 'Cool Down' although this may slightly vary week by week, depending on the learning resources we use.

In order to assess the suitability of this Group for you, we have produced a 'Frequently Asked Questions' sheet. Please read this and once you have contacted the Convenor to check whether you can join us, bring a signed copy along to your first Group meeting.

Tai Chi Based Exercise - Frequently Asked Questions (Feb 2023).pdf

Some of our resources: Although we will use a variety of resources for our meetings, you may find the following useful as examples -

Here is a video (be patient, it is a large file and may be slow to load)

Example 'Warm Up' Exercises: Qi Gong Based Warm Up Exercises.pdf

Please contact either of the Group's Convenors via our e-mail if you are interested in finding out more or to join us for a trial meeting (subject to there being spaces available).