Opted out of my class.

I agree with the advice here kircubbin2000. Yes we all have off days and times that we just don't want to do anything. Perhaps Tai Chi is not for you and maybe you might find something else which you find more enjoyable. I have been doing Tai Chi for two years and love it, there were times at the beginning when I though I would never pick it up, it takes time and patience and a good teacher. Hope you find what you are looking for.

I know how you feel kircubbin. First world problems and all that but I never want to do my yoga class and invariably feel better after it.It's strange isn't it?

I have narrowed things down to easy to get to/minimum fuss and commitment/not in the evening.

I joined hoping there would be a social side but there doesn't.
seem to be. I know a couple of the ladies but at the end they all scoot off with their friend.
I enjoy badminton but it doesn't start till next week.
I've spent the morning trying on my winter clothes and have discovered some of them seem damp so I will have to investigate outside to see what is wrong.

I did used to join in with the Chinese neighbours when staying with D in Oz. They are, afterall, the best teachers.

It was between 6am and 7am outside on a patch of lawn, but the difference being, it was warm and the warmth alone made for easier movement where muscles were needed.

I used to teach tai chi, mainly to older people, and it is true that learning the form is a challenge. Not every movement class will suit everyone but if you want to memorise the form then you should certainly go every week and practise what you are shown in the week. It takes about two years of diligence to learn a short form.

That said, not every teacher suits everyone. Teaching with the back turned is traditional Chinese practice and it is so that people do not become confused and mirror (get the wrong way round) the movements of the teacher.

For Westerners, the challenge is to relax and be in their bodies, it is thus incredibly good for us - tai chi lowers blood pressure, teaches mindfulness, brings relaxation and excellent balance etc etc - but the biggest benefit is to learn to focus, to not 'end gain' but instead to learn to manage frustration and to be kind to yourself. It really is worth it but you have to persevere. I used to think that in a way, it was like learning professional dance, yes every person will move slightly differently but you have to learn what is 'good enough' and that will change!

I tried tai chi just couldn't get the hang of it. A lot of these classes are in the morning. I'm not good first thing in the morning. It means getting up early not very good at doing that. Also catching bus before I can use my bus pass. I prefer an afternoon class. I have found one at the library in Mansfield starts this month. It is seated Pilates. I hope it goes ahead. I wanted to go to a seated yoga class a few months ago but it was cancelled due to no interest Why no one was interested baffles me. These classes are few and far between they should be well attended. Used to do yoga and Pilates but since breaking my ankle last year l'm being very careful am a bit wary now.

A friend asked me to go to Tai’chi with her. I was relieved when she decided after a couple of lessons that it wasn’t for her. Apparently some teachers have a projector showing the moves from the reverse of whatever their choice is. I think I would end up tying myself in knots.

Are there other activities in your area? We have a new WI started by some young mums and they make sure the meetings are fun. Some things are not what you expect them to be! Look out for groups with free taster sessions if necessary. Sometimes you can surprise yourself!

kircubbin2000 I haven't been to Tai Chi since before the school holidays-holidays, child minding and other things got in the way. Could have started again last week but I didn't go! It's not that I don't want to, and I will enjoy it once I'm there. It's just the getting ready to go. Can't decide if it's old age or if I've always been like this (I know what my DSs would say!!!!)

I've never been one to " join " anything or even socialise for that matter, it's just not " me ". I don't know what it is ?

Yes, I was told to go to school which I knew I had to do, then work the same, no problem whatsoever, but don't anyone tell me to join anything as I can't be doing, especially as/when I don't need/want to do really and honestly.

I'm by no means anti-social nor a misery as I like nothing more than a good laugh.
I certainly wouldn't go anywhere near any classes where I knew I wouldn't last more than 5 minutes with, so Kircubbin, you either want to go or you don't, the choice is entirely yours. My belief is that you don't !

Is it the actual activity or the social side that you can't be bothered with ? Or do you just go to various classes for some kind of social life?
If you are not enjoying the activity, whatever it is, try something else! Maybe later in the day !
Can't see any problem myself with having a couple of "cheesed off" days. We all have times when we don't want to talk to anyone and just do what you feel like.
Personally, I have days when I don't speak to anyone - I've always liked my own company, so it isn't a hardship and I don't go to classes as they usually cost money that I haven't got or are in the nearest towns and I'm not old enough for a free bus pass yet!
Give yourself permission to take time off some days then start again!

actually makes sense- as if he does moves facing the class, you have to mirror everything. But yes, a good teacher really helps, and knows how to adapt moves for people with problem knees, etc.

And really great for ze little grey cells too.

I tried tai chi but the teacher wasn't very good. He did the moves with his back to the class! When I said that I couldn't see what to do he said to follow the rest of the class - who were all doing different moves! I am now trying to find another class with a better teacher. In my area almost all activities (not just tai chi) tend to be held in the evenings - I am looking for a daytime class.

I have the same problem with U3A groups. Why do so many start so early?
It would be very easy to fall into the habit of skipping classes Kircubbin, especially in winter months, but as long as you are aware of it. ....
I tried tai chi. I could not remember the moves. I can learn languages, memorise all my passwords etc but not tai chi. Lol. It is good for you but as jura2 said don't miss too many.

I’d find a different class. Listen to your gut feeling kircubbin I don’t think your heart is in it. Find another activity that interests you more perhaps? It shouldn’t be a chore to get through. You’ve tried it at least!
??

I've only started tai chi and don't know if I really like it.I know it is good for you so I will try again.

We all do sometimes, have to say 'not today' - I need me time.

However, if you ae learning the tai-chi form (series of linked movements) missing a week and even more so, a few weeks- will play havoc and be hard to catch up.

Great way to keep mind and body fit and active- but enjoy your coffee and TV - without the guilt.

I think you are being a little hard on yourself. I presume you enjoy Tai Chi and would not usually miss it. Set the alarm for next Monday’s class and allow time to get ready without having to rush about.
Did you miss the other classes because you couldn’t be bothered or just fancied staying at home?