Class formats follow the same basic structure each week. They start with Qigong and breathing exercises to calm and focus the mind and to develop energetic self-awareness. This is followed by warm-up exercises to relax the muscles, open the joints and prepare the body for the pattern of Tai Chi movements.

The main part of the class focuses on learning the Tai Chi form. This is a series of gentle, flowing movements that one learns gradually with plenty of repetition and individual help from the instructors. The form taught in the classes is the Yang style Long form. Beginners start by learning Master Ding's Short Form - a more accessible length form containing all the basic directional movements from the Long Form. Once the student is familiar with the shortened version, it is an easy and natural progression on to the Long Form.

Practice of core principles and concepts of Tai Chi is included in each lesson. The class closes with breathing exercises.

There are no gradings in Tai Chi (as in some martial arts). Each individual works for her/himself. There are more advanced level classes as students progress. Opportunities are available to train on Workshops and Retreats with Master Ding and for senior students to learn weapon forms at the JDIATCC centres in London.

For classes held in the Hertford area, please see the Tai Chi Classes and Venues page