How much do Tai Chi classes cost?
How much do Tai Chi classes cost?
$15 – $25 average cost per class
$60 – $150 average cost per month
Average cost of Tai Chi classes
Tai Chi classes cost $15 to $25 each or $60 to $150 per month, depending on the school, location, and number of classes per month included in the membership plan.
Online Tai Chi classes cost $15 to $50 per month for unlimited access to prerecorded lessons or $130 to $380 for a live-streamed class. However, you may benefit more by taking some in-person classes first to ensure you're practicing with the correct form.
Class or package type | Average cost |
---|---|
Group class | $15 – $25 |
Monthly membership package | $60 – $150 |
Private lesson | $30 – $100 |
3-day Masters workshop | $200 – $350 |
Online class (10 – 16+ lessons) | $130 – $380 |
Online subscription | $15 – $50 per month |
What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is an ancient practice that incorporates a sequence of slow, flowing movements, deep breathing, and meditative awareness. This gentle form of low-impact exercise can improve your physical and mental health. Because it is a mind-body exercise, Tai Chi is often referred to as "meditation in motion".
The practice of Tai Chi—also called Tai Chi Chuan or Tai Ji Quan—originated in China in the 12th century as a martial art that combined exercise and self-defense. Over the centuries, it evolved into an integrative health and wellness program that is now practiced around the world.
Benefits of Tai Chi
Tai Chi offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. Here are some of the key advantages of practicing Tai Chi:
Improved balance & coordination: The slow, deliberate movements of Tai Chi challenge balance and coordination, which may reduce the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
Reduced stress & nanxiety: Tai Chi emphasizes deep breathing and mindfulness, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety.
Increased muscle strength & flexibility: While gentle, Tai Chi involves shifting body weight and controlled movements, which can enhance muscle strength, particularly in the legs and core, and improve flexibility.
Improved cardiovascular health: As an aerobic exercise, Tai Chi can benefit heart health by improving circulation and potentially lowering blood pressure.
Pain management: Studies suggest that Tai Chi may help alleviate pain associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis, back pain, and fibromyalgia.
FAQs about Tai Chi classes
What should I wear to a Tai Chi class?
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to practice Tai Chi. The practice involves many slow reaching, bending, and turning movements, so clothing that allows you to move freely is ideal. Choose clothes made from breathable fabrics to prevent overheating.
Wear lightweight, flexible, low-profile shoes that give your ankles the freedom to rotate. Choose shoes with a low heel or no heel at all to ensure they don't interfere with your balance, and avoid sneakers with thick treads that may snag on the floor. If you prefer, you can also practice Tai Chi barefoot.
What should I bring to a Tai Chi class?
Bring a water bottle to Tai Chi class to stay hydrated. Typically, you won't need to bring anything else as most classes require no equipment.
For more advanced Tai Chi lessons that incorporate weapons, your instructor may recommend purchasing a wooden Tai Chi sword or a Tai Chi fan.
Do I need to be physically fit to take Tai Chi classes?
Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise suitable for people of all fitness levels. You don't need to be physically fit to start practicing Tai Chi. If you have any health concerns, consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
Can you take Tai Chi classes online?
Yes, you can take Tai Chi classes online, which can be a convenient and affordable option, especially if you don't have access to in-person classes. Many instructors and independent Tai Chi studios offer online classes.
Where to find Tai Chi classes near you
You can find Tai Chi classes and instructors at various locations, including:
Dedicated Tai Chi schools and studios
Community centers
YMCAs and other fitness centers
Senior centers
Martial arts studios
Parks and recreation departments
Private Tai Chi instructors on Lessons.com
How to choose a Tai Chi class
Many Tai Chi schools offer free or discounted drop-in classes. A drop-in class gives you the opportunity to evaluate the school and instructors to make sure they're a good fit for you before signing a membership contract.
Follow these tips when evaluating Tai Chi schools near you:
Compare class prices, schedules, and membership packages from multiple schools.
Read school and instructor reviews on Lessons and Google.
Visit the school to confirm it's clean and well-maintained.
Take advantage of a free drop-in class to get a feel for the instructor's teaching style.
Get a copy of the membership contract in writing and review it carefully before signing anything or making any payments.
Beware of schools that immediately try to pressure you into buying a uniform and signing a membership contract.
Questions to ask Tai Chi instructors
Ask these questions to ensure you find the best Tai Chi school for you:
How long have you been teaching Tai Chi?
Are your classes more wellness-oriented or martial arts-oriented?
How many people are in a typical class?
Are your classes beginner-friendly?
What is your class schedule?
How long does each class last?
What membership plans do you offer, and how much do they cost?
Do you offer a free or discounted trial class?
What should I wear to class? Will I need a uniform?
What should I bring to the class?