Hi Guys, summer is here and with it a programme of outdoor classes around Hackney to make the most of the good weather. Here is the summer schedule, feel free to drop in to any classes although I would recommend you drop me a line first just in case! My number is 07531417686.

Daytime Classes: In addition to the Thursday daytime classes at Core Clapton which will run as usual, once a week I have a class by the bandstand in Springfield Park (E5 9AX) between 11-12 noon. Classes take place either on Mondays or Wednesdays, contact me to be added to the mailing list. This class is for complete beginners, and the cost is donations between £5 and £10 depending on what you can afford. The bandstand is shown in the main header image for this article and also on the map to the right.

Qi Gong Classes: From 22 July until 19 August inclusive, at 6.30-7.30pm on Mondays by the bandstand in Springfield Park, I will be teaching Crane Qi Gong from the Five Element Qi Gong series. In the Five Element Qi Gong form each of the five Chinese elements corresponds to an animal, an organ, and a time of year. Summertime is the time of fire, and corresponds with the heart and the Crane form, so now is the perfect tine to learn the Crane to calm the fires of the heart. This class costs £10 to drop in to, or £7.50 per class for a block of four classes – a 20% discount is available for concessions. This class is suitable for complete beginners.

Kung Fu Classes: On Mondays between 7.30-8.30 pm until 19 August, we will be training the 18-step Wudang Fist by the bandstand in Springfield Park. The 18-step Wudang Fist, mixes Tai Chi with other faster arts like Bagua, Xingyi and Taiyi. This vigorous class will explore faster expressions of internal power as well as some low stance work and gentle martial applications. This class is suitable for complete beginners of average health level. It costs £10 to drop in and £7.50 to block book four classes, concessions discount 20%.

Tai Chi Classes: Over the summer the Tuesday evening Tai Chi classes will take place in the tree circle in South Millfields Park, Clapton (E5 9RH), which runs along the side of Chatsworth Road. From 30th July to 20th August, students are welcome to drop in and try a two hour class between 7 and 8.30pm for £15. This class involves a thorough stretch warm-up and exploration of Tai Chi basics skills, including standing meditation using the trees in the circle. We’ll be looking at the 13 Wudang Tai Chi Principles form, doing a little partnerwork, and going for a drink afterwards when the fancy takes us.

In addition, the next weekend workshop will take place Saturday 10th August, at an outdoor location in Hackney.

So much training, so much nature, you’ve got to love the English summer 🙂 See you out there!