Empire Tai Chi Inc

This is an excellent school for someone just starting to learn Tai Chi or for someone like myself who studied Tai Chi for 5 years 20 years ago and needed a refresher course. Gene Nelson, the Sifu, has a teaching philosophy which stresses the fundamental mechanics of the movements. Not only does he demonstrate the move but he analyzes the component parts for you so that you can do it properly. Moreover, there are support videos available on the website for reference. Classes begin and end with chi gong exercises to warm up and cool down. Then, students are divided into groups according to progress and receive semi-private instruction from Gene and his group of very good assistants.

I have been taking Tai Chi for the past three years because I needed to do something healthy for my body; I needed to work on my bone health, balance, gait and posture. What I didn’t expect, even though I believe in the body-mind connection, is that it would also be very beneficial for me mentally. Gene Nelson has been a great teacher-challenging me in both body and mind, and pushing me out of my comfort zone at times. The beginning work that I have been doing and practicing is spilling into all aspects of my life in a very positive way. I attended a workshop this past weekend that was excellent. Gene reviewed the ten principles of Tai Chi and had us apply them to our form. The experience made the principles come alive in a real and tangible way.

I have been studying Tai Chi with Gene Nelson for several years and every class has been rewarding. Most classes have a mix of students at different skill levels, from beginner to more advanced, and with varying physical abilities. Yet Gene meets each student at his or her own level and is very approachable and generous with his time. The depth and breadth of his knowledge is rivaled only by his infectious enthusiasm for learning, which he brings to all of his classes.

As someone who grew up wrestling and later moved into several styles of Martial Arts, I can say that Gene Nelson is perhaps the best instructor I've ever had. His ability to tie different aspects of internal arts together and demonstrate the martial applications is outstanding.

It has not only made a difference in my life personally, but as an educator, it has helped me deal with the challenges of posture, alignment, and breathing that busy days in the classroom can present.
Gene Nelson's instruction has really made a significant difference in my life.

I have been taking Tai Chi Lessons with Empire Tai Chi for 5 1/2 years. During that time I have learned not only physical balance but to be mindfully engaged in all of the programs and workshops given. I learn something new every week and Gene helps all of us to reach our individual potential. I would highly recommend Empire Tai Chi to anyone wishing to improve their Health. Even the most basic breathing exercises would benefit them.