tai chi Classes in Oakland

T'ai chi ch'uan (Tai Chi) is an internal Chinese martial art practiced for self defense and health benefits that include stress management and the creation of a state of mental calmness and clarity. It is a form of exercise characterized by slow moving sequences of forms that create leverage through coordination and relaxation rather than muscular tension. Tai Chi is unique as an exercise because it demands no physical strength to begin training. Whether you are young or old, weak or strong, active or inactive, our Tai Chi classes at our Oakland studio offer something for everyone.

Tai Chi classes are taught by Master Julius Baker, a 7th Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. After serving in the navy, Master Baker began his training in 1969 under Master Byong Yu, a renowned 9th Degree Black Belt from the World Tae Kwon Do Federation and Master Ken Youn. Master Baker has been a Tai Chi student of Lenzie Williams for 15 years. Mr. Williams is a senior student of Laoshi Lo Pang Jeng (Mr. Ben Lo) since 1975. Mr. Williams has participated in Tai Chi Chuan push hands tournaments in the U.S. and Taiwan. In the Taste of China Tournament held in Winchester, Virginia, Mr. Williams won the Push Hands Grand Championship in 1988 and 1990.

Baker's Martial Arts in Oakland provides children and adults with a family-like atmosphere to learn self defense, improve physical fitness, develop self confidence and be part of a broader community that makes up the vibrancy of Oakland and the San Francisco Bay Area. It is a martial arts school offering classes in Tae Kwon Do, Eskrima, Tai Chi and self defense. Founded in 1980, the studio has been a training ground for successful practitioners, instructors and competitors for over 30 years. Tai Chi classes are available to all who wish to learn. Beginners welcome!