Fitness and health: new classes running in Riverside

New classes in an ancient form of Chinese self-defence and meditation are now running in Riverside.

Residents in Cardiff are getting the chance to learn an ancient Chinese form of self-defence through new weekly classes.

The Tai Chi sessions are taught by Zhiling Zhou this week who has 5 years of experience.

“I have studied Tai Chi since COVID-19. It’s a good way to relax and strength our immunity. Tai Chi is Chinese traditional culture and I want to promote it. I’m very happy that everyone loves this sport.” said Zhiling Zhou.

Zhiling Zhou, the volunteer teacher

Tai Chi has been listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2020. It is the combination of slow and graceful movements, which exercises balance and coordination.

Tai Chi is suitable to people of all ages, genders and ethnicities. Its benefits of mental and physical health have also attract it enthusiasts all over the world.

For CardiffMet neighbourhood sport co-ordinator Thomas Clarke, the sessions are a fantastic way to improve health. 

Thomas Clarke, CardiffMet neighbourhood sport co-ordinator

“My job is speaking to the community and mobilizing residents to participate in physical activities. Tai Chi is one of the activities we organize. It’s good for the mental and physical health. Our goal is to get people all ages moving, we want everyone come here and be part of the community rather than at home, ” Thomas Clarke said.

Mrs. Machado is learning Tai Chi

“This is my first time to learn Tai Chi. It’s very good and I feel relaxed,” Mrs. Machado said.

Riverside Community are committed to promote mental and physical health of residents, and hold a variety of activities every week.

“We are trying to make it like family by doing exercises together, you will feel relax and relieve all the stress. It is also beneficial to enhance community cohesion and create a warm atmosphere,” said Thomas Clarke.