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Mission

About TaiChi,
About Zhan Zhuang

Class News

Classes/workshops

Class types
FAQ Over 50's
Evaluation 2005
Falls Prevention

About Sifu Tony Dove
History

Gallery

A Student's Reflection

Links
Contact

Sifu Tony Dove and

Our Aim:
To promote the use of Tai Chi and Zhan Zhuang as taught by Sifu Lam Kam Chuen for the benefit of all human beings, following the association's Grand Master's wishes.

Sifu Dove is a member of:
The Da Cheng Chuan Zhan Zhuang Research Group (Europe)
and
The Lam Tai Chi Chuan Association

All classes are based in Bristol and the South West A Student's Reflection

Tai Chi

On Monday mornings we over 70's come
To keep our ageing bodies on the go
For Gentle exercise and lots of fun
Slow and gentle, always gentle and slow

We rub our knees and wave our arms about
Sitting in our comfy chairs-just so
Helping with balance and confidence no doubt
Slow and gentle, always gentle and slow

Our tutor's handsome, Tony is his name
More about Tai Chi you could not know
He treats it as a very serious game
Slow and gentle, always gentle and slow

'Please wear no high heels, nor mini skirts'
'Swing your Golden Ball both high and low'
'Keeps your arms moving till it really hurts'
'But slow and gentle, always gentle and slow'

It's part of the NHS preventative plan
To keep us uprigth would help their cash flow
We must practice our Tai Chi whenever we can
Slow and gentle, always gentle and slow

For the last twenty minutes we all stand
Now we're doing real Tai Chi, top to toe
I'm sure it's helping me, I feel grand
But still slow and gentle, gentle and slow

B. Parfitt
August 2006 Tai Chi

Every morning in the parks and gardens of China, people of all ages perform the ancient art of Tai Chi. This gentle way to health has been preserved over the centuries. Now it has spread worldwide, and is thought to be the most widely practiced health exercise on the planet.

Tai Chi is a wonderfully refined system of exercise and personal development. It is absorbing, but not exhausting or stressful. It consists of a series of slow, continuous movements that relax and develop the whole body. One of its great advantages is that, no matter what your age, you can reap its benefits.

Once learned, it is a treasure for life.



Early morning training in China New Beginner's Evening Class

Starts Thursday 25 September 7-8 PM
Lam Tai Chi 48 Step Form
United Reformed Church Hall
Woodhill Rd, Portishead



New Over 50's Beginner's Class

Starts Friday 26 September 10-11 AM
Gentle exercise for older people
United Reformed Church Hall
Woodhill Rd, Portishead





Zhan Zhuang
(Standing- Like a Tree)

In the early morning, before the hubbbub of daily life, Chinese people of all ages begin the day by performing traditional exercises in the parks and woods where they live. The first time that you see so many people, some in their eighties and others in their very early youth, all peacefully training together under the trees, is one of life's unforgettable moments.

But as you look more closely you may come across an even more remarkable sight. Among all these moving forms, here and there you will see some figures that rivet your attention. They are fully alone, but they are utterly still.

They are deeply engage in one of the most demanding and powerful forms of exercise ever developed. It is known in Chinese as Zhan Zhuang, pronounced 'Jam Jong'. It literally means: 'Standing Like a Tree'.

Like a tree, with deep roots, the powerful trunk and great spreading branches, you will appear to remain unmoving. In reality, you will be growing from within.

Sifu Dove has learnt from Master Lam, who is a fully accomplished practitioner of the art of Zhan Zhuang and a disciple of Professor Yu Yong Nian, the world's leading authority on this system.

(text extracted from Master Lam's site at LamAssociation.org)

Frequently Asked Questions, Over 50's

Should I consult my GP before attending?

If you have any doubts about your ability to take on exercise I would strongly urge you to consult your GP. You may be surprised at his or her response. Tell the doctor that you are considering taking up a special Tai Chi class for over 50's. Give the doctor my contact details and this website address for further information. Personally, I hope you do inform your GP about these classes.


What should I wear?

Two simple rules, no high heels and no mini skirts. Otherwise wear something comfortable and loose. Flat shoes are best. Women may feel more comfortable wearing trousers, especially in seated classes.


What happens in a class?

Depending on the type, there is usually a mix of seated and standing exercise. There is time for talk and the classes are informal. All exercises are performed slowly and gently and at a pace that suits. Some individuals find certain exercises unsuitable for them and are encouraged to rest and watch. Classes run for one hour, students exercise from 10 minutes up to the full hour.


Do I need to attend every week?

No, all the over 50's classes are run in a drop in fashion. This allows beginners to join at anytime. I have also learnt that life in the 'Golden Age' can become very full. I expect people to have family, holiday and other reasons to miss some weeks. You only pay for classes you attend.


Should I practice at home?

Yes, but it is not essential. Five to ten minutes a day is a good amount, more if you feel comfortable. Exercises for specific conditions and times of the day are explained.


Do I have to remember the exercises?

No. Most people remember one or two at first. Something they liked or disliked. Either way these are the exercises worth remembering. Tai Chi is more about how one moves than the specific movements themselves.


What if I have not exercised for some time?

Then it is about time you started. Like taking up any new exercise, it may take a few weeks to settle in. However, classes are run at an achievable pace and you should not get out of breath. Tai Chi is not competitive, most people find that they can do some things better than others.


I have a very arthritic shoulder, will I be able to exercise?

Absolutely, the movements are performed in a manner that should not put strain on any joints. Tai Chi will not cure or prevent these conditions but some report relief from stiffness and pain around the joints. If you are in any doubt, consult your GP.


I have had a stroke.

If you have had a recent stroke then please consult your medical professionals first. Once stabilised then exercise will at least improve your circulation, co-ordination and muscle tone in unaffected areas. At best it may help the recovery process. If you are in any doubt, consult your GP. You may find the specific seated classes more appropriate.


I am unable to stand for more than a few minutes.

Some classes are run with a mostly seated curriculum. I do encourage people to try some standing exercise, with or without support, if able.


What are the benefits?

Most people find some improvement within a few months of starting. This can include better balance, general fitness, stamina, reduced stiffness etc. The exercises improve circulation and co-ordination. Most people laugh in the first class. Many make new acquaintances. There is time to explore feelings and issues around ageing too. Tai Chi is very individual, I run the classes to promote good health, independence and for enjoyment. You are not too old to learn a few new tricks.


Any further questions?

Please feel free to contact me and ask directly. If you cannot receive an email response then please use the link on the contact page and send me a phone number.

Classes

Sifu Dove runs specific classes for Tai Chi and Zhan Zhuang

Individual Sessions
One to one sessions are available either at home or in central Bristol. These sessions use specifically tailored Chinese therapeutic exercises to meet individual requirements.

Standard Tai Chi
Beginners classes required for follow on classes. Taught through forms, regular attendance and practice are required.

Tai Chi For Health
Drop in classes where a set of exercises are taught for a few months then changed. Ideal for those who are looking for the health benefits without having to learn forms. Beginners are always welcome and no previous experience is required, just turn up and exercise.

Tai Chi for Health, Seniors
Aimed at those over 50 who are independent and mobile. The goal is to improve health and well being, prolong independence, prevent falls, socialise and laugh. Classes sometimes have a seated element. Individual ability is catered for and conditions such as arthritis and replaced joints do not exclude participation.

Zhan Zhuang
Standing like a tree energy exercise. All classes contain elements of group and individual instruction. All public classes are open to all levels

Seated Gentle Exercise For people recovering from serious illness and students 75 plus. These classes are light and mostly seated. We only work at a gentle and achievable pace.

Falls prevention

Tai Chi has been proven as the only effective group exercise system for falls prevention. Only one to one physio work achieves similar or better results. I have worked for four PCTs delivering falls prevention exercise. For the MSW project a full report was published including statistical data as evaluation and is available on request. The group as a whole improved out of the 'at risk' bracket after five months.


Evaluation 2005

This year’s evaluation produced some very encouraging results. 79% really enjoy the classes, and 81% reported benefits of exercising. More than a quarter practice at home every other day or more. About three quarters also find the social aspect of the class important. Five people also reported definite improvement in pain levels experienced outside of class.

In China Tai Chi is referred to as ‘Treasure’ not just for its health benefits but the personal joy it tends to create. From the response to the questionnaire it seems that many people here are beginning understand this idea and see Tai Chi in the same way.

Overview

The evaluation took the form of a two page questionnaire comprising 16 questions in three sections and a comments box. Each question had a choice of five progressive value tick boxes. All five ‘Tai Chi for Health Senior’ classes were offered participation. These are generally free standing community classes apart from one which is supported by the NHS. The purpose of the evaluation was three fold;
1. Good Practice
2. Feedback to evaluate past and plan future classes
3. To get students to think about the effects of Tai Chi.

The students range in age from late 50’s to about 90. It was anonymous and no personal data was included. 42 forms were completed. Some single forms represent the views of couples. There were about 80 students on roll at the time and this evaluation represents about 50% of them. All agreed to allow the information and comments to be added to the evaluation as a whole

Curriculum to date included general Tai Chi exercise, Golden Ball Tai Chi, Zhan Zhuang and a small part of the Lam Form. All of the exercises were taught to me by Master Lam Kam-Chuen. Some students are in the process of learning the Lam Small Circle Form. Classes run for one hour, most have up to half an hour seated exercise.

All comments are included “as written” and are placed at appropriate places throughout this evaluation.

Students ranged from regular attendees for about a year to partial attendees for a few months. As these quotes show this does mean that some people felt that not enough time had been spent to give a valuable reflection of Tai Chi.

“Neither of us have been to a sufficient number of classes yet to give worthwhile assessment to benefits”

“I have only been in the class around 2 months and have not made all the meetings. It is difficult therefore to express solid values.”

“I have not been attending long enough to notice any major changes but I have every confidence that I will in due course thank you”

“As a comparative newcomer to the class I feel it’s a little too early to expect results but I am sure it will help me in time, especially if I make the effort to practice at home”

Class Organization

1 Is the venue appropriate?

Totally inappropriate	Slightly inappropriate	Adequate	Appropriate	Very appropriate
1	0	11	16	14
2%	0%	26%	38%	33%

One hall has been cold in the past. Otherwise the locality and venues themselves seem to fit the client group.

2 Is the teacher approachable?

Totally unapproachable	Slightly unapproachable	Adequate	Approachable	Very approachable
0	0	0	4	38
0%	0%	0%	10%	90%

“Tony is always keen to answer any problems we may have. Also if one finds any exercise difficult for whatever reason, not to strain to do it. Thank you Tony for an enjoyable class.”

3 Is the class the right length?

Much too short	Too short	About right	Too long	Much too long
0	2	40	0	0
0%	5%	95%	0%	0%

4 Are the exercises appropriate for your ability?

Much too hard	Too hard	About right	Too easy	Much too easy
0	0	33	5	1
0%	0%	85%	13%	2%

“Too easy- but I am aware that I am not the classes target audience”

5 Is there adequate individual attention?

There is much too little	There is too little	About right	There is too much	There is much too much
0	2	40	0	0
0%	5%	95%	0%	0%

“how could there possibly be too much”

“Tony is very sensitive to the NHS knowledge of the class and is thorough but not condescending in his explanations and is very helpful and varied in his classes”
One group is primarily made up of retired NHS workers.

These statistics speak clearly for themselves. The classes are generally aimed at pushing individuals within their capabilities allowing for ability, which is quite diverse. There is an emphasis on safe exercising and emotional sensitivity within the class.

“The sessions are conducted in a very sensitive manner and the activity is on goingly attuned to the endurance level of the class. In cases where students may experience passing discomfort, they are encouraged to sit out for a period and rejoin as they feel restored. This undoubtedly builds confidence and resolve in the person”.

“I find Tony makes everybody feel at ease. He makes sure that we all do things within our own capabilities. If we have any problems he is very good at sorting them out. Well done Tony”

“Would enjoy more of the same at Long Ashton”

“Would like more classes to be held at Long Ashton”

There may be a second class in Long Ashton soon.

“A very good instructor”

How has Tai Chi affected you?

6 Has exercising affected your flexibility?

It has made it much worse	It has made it worse	No change	Slight improvement	Definite improvement
0	0	14	18	10
0%	0%	33%	43%	24%

67% noticed some improvement

7 Has exercising affected your stamina?

It has made it much worse	It has made it worse	No change	Slight improvement	Definite improvement
0	0	15	20	7
0%	0%	35%	47%	17%

64% noticed some improvement

8 Has exercising affected your balance?

It has made it much worse	It has made it worse	No change	Slight improvement	Definite improvement
0	0	20	15	7
0%	0%	47%	35%	17%

52% noticed some improvement

9 Has exercising affected your confidence?

It has made it much worse	It has made it worse	No change	Slight improvement	Definite improvement
0	0	23	11	8
0%	0%	55%	26%	19%

45% noticed some improvement

10 Has exercising affected your general health?

It has made it much worse	It has made it worse	No change	Slight improvement	Definite improvement
0	0	20	14	8
0%	0%	48%	33%	19%

52% noticed some improvement

11 Has exercising affected your feelings/emotional state?

It has made it much worse	It has made it worse	No change	Slight improvement	Definite improvement
0	0	19	14	9
0%	0%	45%	33%	22%

55% noticed some improvement

12 Has exercising affected any usual pain levels outside of class?

It has made it much worse	It has made it worse	No change	Slight improvement	Definite improvement
0	1	18	13	5
0%	3%	49%	33%	13%

46% noticed some improvement

Not everyone answered this question and I did not ask if people experienced pain normally. Unfortunately therefore the statistics here are not very conclusive other than the fact that nearly half did notice some improvement. These changes are likely noticed by those who have experienced pain, no change being ticked by some who do not experience any in day to day life. The one negative response also gave a quote “sometimes".

“There is no change in my physical condition as I do not suffer any pain or discomfort. But find the exercises very relaxing and mentally stimulating and enjoy exercising with a group- and the discipline it entails.”

Overview of benefits.

34 replies reported at least one improved category. People who attend have a variety of ability, some were very unstable whist others are fit and active. Tai Chi tends to affect people individually. The vast majority, 81%, reported some benefit. Also note the quotes above about time in class. These results seem very encouraging and speak for themselves.

There were a few forms where ticks ran down the slight change or definite change category and several that did the same for the no change category. The majority of forms were very specific in their answers as there was a spectrum of ticks.

There was only one negative response in one category. Obviously as the people who attend are voluntary there was an expectation of a positive response. Flexibility and stamina showed the biggest reported change. It is easy for students to notice this as they can compare their ability to earlier classes. More than 46% reported benefit in each category. There was no baseline taken at the start of class to compare.

“Felt really energized after first class”

“I am interested in relating tai chi to specific health conditions and to maintaining sports fitness minimizing/preventing injuries.”

“It appears as if it might maintain health gradually both mentally and physically- this lessens the burden on the NHS”

“I really enjoy the calming effect I come away with after every class, and the feel good factor”

“I appreciate the explanations why certain exercises or movements produce physiological changes and benefits. Awareness of balance is a main benefit, also using some muscles that are rarely used in day to day movements”

“I was sceptical at first but completely won over now”

“I used to get restless legs in bed, have realized that I don’t seem to get since doing tai chi”

“The relaxation exercise has been a very effective stress buster. Have been known to give impromptu demos if asked and recently found myself explaining the benefits to an 84 year old friend”

Other Questions

13 Do you generally enjoy the classes?

Not at all	Not very much	There are ok	I enjoy them	I really enjoy them
0	0	3	6	33
0%	0%	7%	14%	79%

This is hugely important. The classes must be enjoyable to maintain people’s interest and attendance.

“Feel really enthusiastic about the classes, way beyond my expectations.”

“Do you have private consultations?”

14 How important is the social aspect of the class?

Not at all	Not very much	It is slightly important	It is important	It is very important
0	3	8	22	9
0%	7%	19%	52%	22%

The question was worded deliberately. For a few the social aspect is not important. However 93% find the social aspect important to some degree, 74% state that is important. This is an integral part of the classes. People come together to play, work and take on challenges together. Students are valued by the teacher and other students. There is also some time given to explore topics around health and emotional issues generally. I am very happy that the group have experienced this aspect positively.

The social aspect is an important goal of the classes. For some people ageing includes a shrinking of the social group. The classes are friendly and although can be hard work are relaxed and light. The social interaction is a bi-product of the group activity. I am sure that this is also contributory to reported changes in the emotional state of participants.

The class ends with a salute and bow to all participants. This is a cultural aspect of the system. Its purpose is not only to show honour to the lineage of Tai Chi but also to demonstrate that all students are part of that process. In effect we are all family at that time.

“I look forward to the class each week because even if I don’t manage to exercise any other time I do it then. Even if I have a frantic week I can relax un that hour and try to get things in perspective. I like the sociability of my fellow students and the patients and calmness of our teacher. If I persevere I am sure there will be lots of improvement mentally and physically”

15 Would you recommend the class to a friend?

Definitely not	Probably not	If asked	Definitely	I have told all my friends
0	0	3	21	18
0%	0%	7%	50%	43%

“shame most don’t live close and I cant persuade those who do to come along sorry.”

16 Do you practice at home?

Never	Sporadically	Once/twice a week	3-4 times a week	Every day
2	19	11	8	2
5%	45%	26%	19%	5%

This is very encouraging.
50% practice regularly at home, nearly 25% more than three times a week.
The syllabus is quite broad and run in a turn up and practice fashion. This is to give everyone the ability to have an interesting weekly workout. Normally Tai Chi is taught very slowly with an expectation on the student to study at home. Also repetitions of exercises may last up to half an hour. It is unlikely that the client group would be physically able to train this way or enjoy it as they clearly do. The class also needs to be continually open to new beginners. A topic is taught for a few months then changes. This is not only for the health benefits or to keep interest but to allow newcomers to feel able to join without feeling too far behind and to allow for people who have some difficulty remembering.

“Any exercise to improve memory would be very welcome”

Conclusions

Generally the statistics speak for themselves. The response is very positive. I get continual feedback from the group verbally and this evaluation confirms previously reported reactions.

A last quote-

“I wish the class had started years before”

There is no individual data about conditions, falls, age, sex or other demographic detail. This may be included in next year’s evaluation. As will reports from Residential settings and schools.

I would like to thank all students who contributed to the evaluation and all those who attend the classes. Your enthusiasm and ability to work so hard makes teaching a joy. A big thank you also goes to the students who have helped create the classes and encouraged others to attend. I would also like to thank Liz Lansley of North Somerset PCT (NHS) for her continued work and support.

Lastly I would like to thank and acknowledge Master LAM and his predecessors without whom none of this would be possible.

A bit about Sifu Dove

Sifu Dove has studied Tai Chi and Zhan Zhuang for more than a decade directly under Sifu Lam Kam Chuen.
He is based in Portishead near Bristol
He runs separate classes for different levels of ability or need.
He has specialised in classes for weaker students, notably as falls prevention for older people and rehab following illness. He has brought into his classes more than 15 years experience in health and education backgrounds supporting people with a wide variety of special needs.
This includes people with long term illnesses such as M.E., those recovering from stroke, wheel chair users and those with profound arthritis. He has also worked with people suffering from emotional difficulties and stress.

Demonstration of the Lam Small Circle Form
at Lam Association Dinner 2002


Sifu Tony Dove
Tai Chi History

1988	Started Tai Chi
1994	Started teaching Tai Chi
1994	Started Zhan Zhuang
1999	Started Teaching Zhan Zhuang
2000	Consultant for Merton,Sutton and Wandsworth PCT (NHS) Consultant for Thorsons Big Book Of Chi Teaching Tai Chi as falls prevention.
2001-present	Various Classes as falls prevention for PCTs around Bristol
2004	Pilot class in Weston Hospital (Quantoc Physio dept)

Other work history

87-90	Supporting adults with multiple disabilities in hospital and community settings
90-98	Supporting children with disabilities in schools
98-2000	Managed Play Centre
2001-2005	Project and Operational management of educational projects for young people with severe emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Gallery
Photos open in new window

Playing Tai Chi in Beijing with Howard, Robin, Annie and Richard
Tai Chi by the Lake -Summer 2005
Zhan Zhuang	Seated Zhan Zhuang	Golden Ball Tai Chi
Association China trip 2005	3.5 Km up on the Tibetan Plateau	Ian and Tim in the Forbidden City

Links to other sites

The website of The Lam Association
LamAssociation.org

The website of Master Lam Kam Chuen
LamKamChuen.com

Chi Kung in Europe
www.chi-kung.org

Website listing some research completed around Tai Chi
www.krapu4.com/taichi/research/ArtiFull.htm

New Zealand review of Wolf Study 1996
masseynews.massey.ac.nz/2003/masseynews/aug/aug11/stories/taichi

Tai Chi and fear of falls
www.aapmr.org/condtreat/injuries/falls





Contact


 Tony Dove
web@Tony.LikeaTree.org.uk



Phone
07886630436



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of Contact details and Classes

Current classes MONDAY Clevedon, Scout Hall (Opposite Morissons) 9.30- 10.30 Tai Chi For Health, Seniors Lam Small Circle Form Village Hall, Prince's Rd, Clevedon 10.45-11.45 Seated Gentle Exercise For those with mobility problems or new to exercise. Women's Institute Hall, Backwell 12.30-13.30 Tai Chi For Health Mixed standing and seated exercise TUESDAY Yatton, Hangstones 10.00-11.00 Tai Chi For Health, Seniors Long Ashton Village Hall 12.00-13.00 Tai Chi Beginner's Class The Lam 48 Step Form Parish Warf Leisure Centre Portishead 13.30-14.30 Seated Gentle Exercise For those with mobility problems or new to exercise. St Anthony's Nursing Home, Weston 3.00-4.00 Seated Gentle Exercise for Residents Bristol Steiner School Redland Hill, Redland, BS6 6UX 19.00-20.00 Tai Chi Beginners 20.00-21.00 Zhan Zhuang Beginners (Yi Chuan) WEDNESDAY Knightstone Sheltered Accomodation 215 Worle High Street 9.30-10.30 Seated Gentle Exercise For those with mobility problems. Non- residents welcome Earlfield Residential Home, Weston 11.00-12.00 Seated gentle exercises for residents Mixed standing and seated exercise Searle Court Cherry Avenue, Clevedon 2.00-3.00 Seated Gentle Exercise For those with mobility problems. Non- residents welcome THURSDAY The Campus Highlands Lane, Locking Castle, BS24 7DX 9.30-10.30 Tai Chi For Health, Seniors Mixed seated and standing, falls prevention This class is mostly based on Zhan Zhuang St Anthony Court Nursing Home, Weston 11.00-12.00 Seated Gentle Exercise, For residents. Bay Tree School 12.30-13.30 Tai Chi For Staff and Pupils United Reformed Church Hall, Cabstand, Portishead 14.30-15.30 Intermediate Tai Chi, Seniors United Reformed Church Hall, Woodhill Rd, Portishead 19.00-20.00 Tai Chi Beginners Lam 48 Step Form 20.00-21.00 Lam Tai Chi Intermediates Refining the form and basic push hands FRIDAY United Reformed Church Hall, Cabstand, Portishead 10.00- 11.00 Tai Chi For Health Seniors Village Hall, Prince's Rd, Clevedon 11.30-12.30 NW Somerset Parkinsons Group For people with Parkinson's, those caring for them, family and friends. St Georges Hall, Easton In Gordano 13.30- 14.30 Tai Chi For Health, Seniors Long Ashton Village Hall, Long Ashton 15.00-16.00 Tai Chi For Health, Seniors Workshops Details on request One hour to full day demonstrations and workshops for Seniors Full day workshops and short courses for Physiotherapists and other health professionals Day workshops.

Portishead Queen's Road Group St Anthony's Group Long Ashton Group