What should I wear to Tai Chi class?

What shall I wear?

I get asked this question a lot by potential new joiners. Despite what has been advised, I still get new students coming in dressed in appropriately. I feel it is time to blog about this topic.

Tai Chi silks

The easy answer is comfortable clothes and shoes as you would for exercise. So t-shirts, jogging bottoms would be most appropriate. Yoga gear and revealing clothing are not appropriate. In the colder seasons, please bring a fleece or something warm.

Footwear wise, wear flat soled trainers. Please don't come to class wearing flip-flobs, sandals or chunky soled trainers. I am not keen on training in bare feet. Tai Chi is traditionally done outdoors and wearing shoes. The halls we use are also used by others and it might not be easy to identify damaged floor surfaces or sharp objects. So for the sake of health, safety and hygiene, please wear shoes.

Ip Man style over coat

So what is wrong with flip-flobs, sandals or chunky soled trainers?

Regarding flip-flobs and sandals. We move about a lot and on health and safety grounds, they are not appropriate. Regarding chunky soled trainers, we should should be closer to the ground. Chunky soled trainers present us from feeling grounded. That doesn't mean barefoot shoes are the answer. They are not. Why? They don't provide adequate protect to the feet, nor give support. I know some people are obsessed with barefoot shoes, but these are not for everyone. If you're wondering if I have every tried them. Yes, I own a pair and I don't believe in the hype.

We aren't the same as other Tai Chi clubs. What we do in terms of Tai Chi and Qigong can be a bit more physically demanding. Students can get quite enthusiastic in class. If you're going to be on your feet for an hour or more, please exercise common sense.

A traditional outfit

Do I have to wear a uniform? We do have club merchandise available, but wearing club shirts and hoodies are optional.

Do you recommend any types of shoes?

Some students and myself, like to wear martial arts shoes. These not compulsory, but it can help with what we do. I feel more grounded wearing these. I have worn various shoes for Chinese martial arts for decades and personally, I like them.

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