Golden Gate Park Tai Chi Class

Joan, who is the author of the history of the GGPTCC found in the next posted review, asked me to post the following message:
Nov. 26, 2015
I discovered this class in the late 1990’s and attended regularly for a few years, then changed neighborhoods and schedules but managed to keep in touch. Over time I have integrated many of the exercises into my daily life.
I now realize that Sifu Chin’s teaching style and explanation of «tai chi thinking» have led (and continues to lead) to improvement in my overall physical health, including flexibility, balance, muscle strength and energy level and also in my thinking. I notice this especially as I grow older. People frequently ask «what I do» to keep healthy. I tell them without a doubt «the tai chi class in Golden Gate Park.» I can’t imagine what shape I would be in without it.
Thanks to Sifu and everybody connected with the classes.
Joan Aragone

I can’t say enough good about these classes that have been going for FREE for the San francisco community for decades! Yes history still in the making. The sifus like Terry Hall, Diane, Rose, and so many exceptional wonderful instructors and assistants, so numerous I’m sorry I can’t remember all their names at this time – so dedicated to give of their energy and time every weekend of the year – the practice and art is first rate, powerful, beautiful, genuine and kind. It was a great honor for me to be able to attend these classes in the early and mid 2000’s and I hope to be able to return soon in the New Year, much older and in worse shape because I stopped my practice for so long – These classes and the instructors are an inspiration. IMHO Grand Master Bill Chin is one of the greatest martial artists and teachers in the world. This practice is very good for health and the teachers are amazingly generous, kind, humble, and watch out, highly skilled! ;) I would Highly recommended for everyone of various fitness levels coordination and skill sets, beginners and advanced can learn! The students are all a nice group, not intimidating as you think so you can join in.

I have been with this TaiChi class for almost 2 years now, and I still love it.
I am a slow learner but enjoying the class and my own progress very much.
The teachers are wonderful.
No pressure, just patient and kind and consistent classes, every Saturday and Sunday at 8:30 and 9:30.

Thank you for posting the photos of the class and GGPTCC picnics through the years — they bring back great memories of the good times, great martial arts demos, and amazing food. I am an admirer of Grand Master Bill Chin and his passion and dedication to Tai Chi Ch’uan Yang style. Master Chin is art in motion, having devoted 55+ years to practicing, teaching, and lecturing. The class has always been free of charge because Master Chin never wanted a person’s financial ability to get in the way of learning Tai Chi. Not only does he know and understand the art and practice of Tai Chi through and through, he understands the philosophy and life lessons that go with Tai Chi. The class has a wonderful set of instructors, led by Terry and Rose, who are committed to teaching and supporting the class every weekend, rain or shine. They are very talented and are generous with their time and knowledge. Most of all, I appreciate what Master Chin has given us through the years and decades. He is my sifu, my mentor, and I look up to him because he is a person of highest principles, not only about Tai Chi, but about life, living, mutual respect, and humanity. It is a privilege and honor to know him and learn from him. I hope that other students will say a few words about the class and their experiences.