Tai chi life school

It is rare to find a true master of an art who is also a passionate teacher, but this describes Barry exactly. He has built a talented teaching team around him, who are equally dedicated to communicating the great benefits of Tai Chi. The instructors are reverential towards the practice, but never precious or puritanical about it. Everything is done with a light touch. There is an emphasis on the reciprocal relationship between the form (flowing movements) and the martial side of Tai Chi, and we therefore practice both in equal measure. One of the highlights of the lesson are Barry’s warmups which, in their seemingly endless variety, conjure up a different mood every week. I have been going to the class now for about 8 months and am amazed at the difference it has made to my health and general wellbeing. It does not surprise me that people travel long distances to learn from Barry. I can’t imagine that there is a better class out there than this one. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I couldn’t be more happier about the choice I made by joining this school. The classes with no exceptions are always great fun also they are never the same. Every time is different experience and every time I learn something new. Many times after the classes I am left with a feeling of like I have worked out in the gym and in the same time relaxed and with clear mind as I had meditate for a hour. Our coach Barry is a wonderful man with lots of knowledge and experience. I am very grateful to him and to his team. If you think about joining his school don’t think. Just join and you will see. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Barry is a dedicated and inspirational teacher who treats beginners with the same dedication and enthusiasm as experienced attendees. Barry's years of experience, expertise and passion make for a varied and great learning experience, no two classes are ever the same, his interesting and eclectic music selection really adds to the enjoyment. Highly recommended. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

It is difficult to put into words what makes these classes so great. Barry has an eclectic teaching style which means that every class is different, always exciting and always interesting. Learning quickly is not the point, learning well with depth, integrity and understanding very much is. I really cannot recommend these classes highly enough. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

A brilliant, welcoming way in to learning the practice, not just the tai chi form but aspects of the philosophy and history behind it. Barry is an inspirational and down to earth teacher who makes each class both fun and the right amount of challenging! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Barry is always on top form. Fantastic class. Thank you Barry

Reviewed on Google Maps

Barry is the Real Deal. A highly skilled martial artist and an excellent teacher. I can't recommend his classes enough.

Reviewed on Google Maps

Superb teaching by a very experienced Sifu. Barry McGinlay brings a modern and eclectic mix while staying true to the traditional spirit of martial arts training. All ages are catered for and I love being able to train alongside my children. Excellent. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I have met many teachers and mentors both in martial arts and in academia. Barry McGinlay is definitely one of the most inspiring persons I have ever met. Although I am grateful for my great local teacher in Finland, I would love to visit Barry's school in London. If you want to practice tai chi in London, this is the place to be. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Barry is a truly remarkable man capable of inspiring those he coaches to reach their full potential, yet at the same time is humble and respectful

Reviewed on Google Maps

I only started a few weeks ago but I have already learned so much. Specifically the Form but also the History, Philosophy and Ethics of Tai Chi. I came on a recommendation and it is one of the best things I have done for my mind and body. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Being a student with Tai Chi Life School has given me an outlook on what it is to be focused, still and respectful. Classes can be hard work and sometimes it can leave you feeling disheartened, but you come back more determined to get it right. I have been with other schools before, where it is following the teacher to do qi gong, or copying the steps of the form, but Barry will invest the time to help and challenge you develop an understanding of this profound and ancient exercise. I would recommend this school to anybody who is not afraid to work hard or to confront yourself through taijiquan. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I love Tai Chi, and very grateful to have found Barry McGinlay and all the team at Tai Chi Life School. I would highly recommend them for anyone wishing to take it up. Barry is one of the most and inspirational and positive people I have ever met and is a fantastic teacher with a great team behind him. Always making me feeling welcomed and included as a novice. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Barry continues to be the best teacher I have had the privilege to learn from in my 30 years of training. His martial experience is extensive and his ability and technique are simply astounding. You could not wish for a better teacher...you will not be disappointed! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I have now been a student of Barry's for 15 years! I have met a lot of teachers and there is no-one like him and no-one I'd rather be taught by! Because of Barry's motivation and no-excuses personality I have achieved more than I ever could have imagined! Barry is one in a million!At Tai Chi Life School if you work hard you will get a lot back in return. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Barry is simply an incredible coach and teacher. He knows so much it can almost be overwhelming - but it's presented with simplicity, and balanced with empathy, and understanding. Every class is both challenging and rewarding, and he always has a new exercise or a new perspective to mix things up and keep them interesting. As a beginner, I genuinely feel deeply privileged to have this opportunity: for anyone really serious about Tai Chi, I can't imagine an instructor better able to help you achieve your potential. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I walked through the doors of Tai Chi Life School 13 years ago and never looked back. A new world unfolded for me and Tai Chi has done so much for me on so many levels. It has kept me sane in very stressful and demanding jobs, and has shown me ways to live a balanced and happy life. Physically I have never felt better and fitter. Barry has created an inclusive and warm environment where everybody is welcome and encouraged to realise their full potential. He has a unique talent and gift to get the best out of everyone, to challenge and develop his students. His teaching is fun, clear, simple and of the highest standard. Barry covers all aspects of Tai Chi - health, relaxation, fitness, martial - so there really is something for everyone. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Barry is the best Tai Chi teacher I know. He is excellent in explaining. He knows how the human body moves and is able to translate this into training. Apart from this he is also a very enthusiastic coach who really knows how to motivate and he brings the best out of his students, at every level.He is also very dedicated to his sport what made him a world champion and an inspiration to all Tai Chi practitioners that I met from all over the world. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been Training with Barry for over 20 years, I don't know anyone with such all round authentic martial arts and tia chi skills, you won't be disappointed

Reviewed on Google Maps

I’ve been learning Tai Chi with Barry for a year and half. I have learnt so much about myself and it has had such a positive effect for my mind and body. Barry and the teachers are friendly and dedicated experts in their field and know when you need to be pushed. Whatever you put in you get so much back and there’s a broad range of classes to pick from. I would highly recommend anyone in giving it a try! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Having recently joined Qigong I have noticed a massive difference in my overall Health, wellbeing and strength. Being new to the class i was concerned i wouldn't be able to keep up, but Barry is an excellent teacher giving great direction and understanding of the moves. I would highly recommend this class, it's the best part of my week. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been training with Barry for more than 10 years. My health has improved tremendously, I feel much stronger and have more energy, and my back doesn't go out any more! He is an inspiring teacher, and I've made some wonderful friends in the classes. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

What a amazing class after trying many others. I have finally found a place that I can get great training from a great teacher and a great class full of nice people. Thank you Barry for your time and dedication. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Just done a pads class here today with master barry, if you enjoy a good workout then this is the place to go. There are also many classes at shaolin temple uk, this is also another place with lots of great opportunities at learning new skills.

Reviewed on Google Maps

Practising Taichi and Qigong has been life changing for me, it has improved my health, strength, flexibility and patience tremendously. Barry's training style incorporates the ancient roots of this internal Chinese martial art and makes it relevant in todays busy modern world that we live in. All of the teachers from the Taichi life school have aided greatly in my development so far and I can honestly say It is an honour to be a member of the school. There are classes to suit everybody's schedule and level and if your still reading this I urge you to put your gym membership on the sideline for a few months so you can come and see what its all about. Every time we train something magical happens. You wont be disappointed! Hope to see you in class soon. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps