Tai Chi Chuan (Supreme Ultimate Fist) is rooted in ancient Taoist philosophy and has been practiced in several forms for thousands of years. Of these different forms, the Tai Chi Chuan Lee Form was developed by Ho-Hsieh Lee around 1,000 BC and Chee Soo (1919-1994) is credited with introducing this style to the west.

While Tai Chi Chuan is often seen as a slow set of soft movements, each of those movements and postures is actually a highly effective self-defense technique. Beyond self-defense applications, practicing the ancient art of Tai Chi Chuan has significant health benefits. The smooth, low impact movements will promote physical health by improving balance and strength, while the meditative benefits result from an internal focus and self-centering.

Antonio Castro, PhD (Sifu Tony), who has practiced Tai Chi Chuan Lee Style for over twenty years in pursuit of the scholar-warrior way, leads the program for those interested in learning more about this ancient art. The class includes an introduction to the Lee Style Form and the key physical (and philosophical) concepts, as well as instruction on applying these movements and postures in self-defense. 

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Tai Chi FAQ

What is Tai Chi? Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art built around slow, flowing movement sequences. Unlike what most people picture when they hear “martial art,” it’s not about speed or force. It’s about balance, awareness, and using your whole body with intention. Most people come for the health benefits and stay because it genuinely changes how they move through the world.

Is it a workout? Tai Chi can be surprisingly demanding. You’ll work muscles you normally use, improve your balance, and build functional strength. The slowness doesn’t make it easy. In fact, that’s the whole point.

Do I need to be in shape to start? No. Tai Chi is one of the most genuinely accessible movement practices. It adapts to your body, your fitness level, and where you are right now. Students of all ages train together, and everyone starts at zero.

What should I wear? Comfortable athletic wear. Keep it simple.

How long does it take to learn? You’ll get something useful out of your very first class. The foundational movements take a few months to feel natural. The deeper practice unfolds over time. There’s always more to discover.

What’s a “form”? A form is a sequence of connected movements practiced in a set order — the core curriculum of Tai Chi. At EvolveAll, we teach the Lee style form, a great foundation for beginners.

Why does everyone move so slowly? Slowing down forces you to actually feel what your body is doing. It builds awareness that carries over into everything else you do. Slowness takes discipline.

Is this a spiritual or meditative practice? Do I have to be into that? It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need any particular background or belief system. Most students find that the focused, intentional movement naturally quiets the mind.

I’m worried I’ll feel lost or fall behind. Tai Chi classes move at a pace that accommodates everyone. Our instructors meet you where you are.