Tai Chi Randwick

Coogee - Bronte - Rose Bay

Learn from a certified instructor, member of the Tai Chi Association of Australia

Qigong & Tai Chi classes in Coogee, Bronte & Rose Bay

Qigong and Tai Chi classes in Coogee, Bronte & Rose Bay, in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs

To REGISTER for Term 1 starting Friday 30 January 2026, click here.

FREE Qigong intro class on Friday 23rd (Rose Bay) and Monday 26th (Coogee)

Grant Reserve, Coogee
NEW QIGONG CLASS – Monday mornings 7.00-7.45 am
Monday evenings 5.00-6.00 pm
Saturday mornings 8.30-9.30 am

Bronte Beach Park, Bronte
Monday mornings 10.00-11.00 am

Lyne Park, Rose Bay
NEW QIGONG CLASS – Friday mornings 9.30-10.15 am
Friday mornings 10.20-11.20 am

One-on-one and small group Qigong and Tai Chi classes available upon request

What is Tai Chi?

Originally an ancient Chinese martial art rooted in Taoist principles, Tai Chi is:

A health and longevity practice based on a series of slow, circular movements that flow seamlessly together
A meditative practice based on inner stillness and harmony
An internal martial art based on relaxation, centering and yielding
A philosophical system based on the natural interplay and balance between opposite but complementary forces known as Yin and Yang

Qigong is the practice of working with Qi, or subtle energy. Tai Chi and Qigong are related in that the free flow of Qi that is achieved through relaxation of body and mind is essential to the practice of Tai Chi.

Both are deeply rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), like acupuncture and shiatsu.

Who is Tai Chi for?

Tai Chi can be practised by anyone, irrespective of gender, fitness level, age or religion.

Due to the gentle nature of the practice, physical strength and stamina offer no particular advantage when starting Tai Chi.

As an art of longevity, Tai Chi can be practiced into old age and is known to help people live and age well.

Also, while grounded in Taoist philosophy, Tai Chi principles can be interpreted within one’s own belief system.

While often thought of as a practice for older people, Tai Chi can be incredibly beneficial for the younger generations seeking ways to slow down and connect inwards.

What are classes like?

A TYPICAL CLASS

Tai Chi classes start with a warm-up, to loosen up the body and all major joints, as well as the spine.

This generally flows into Qigong practice, to open the energy channels, nurture the Qi and prepare the ground for specific Tai Chi moves from the form being studied.

The rest of the class is dedicated to learning and practicing the Tai Chi form, introducing new moves and postures as appropriate. Beginners first learn the choreography, and students are encouraged to gradually integrate the Tai Chi principles.

The class ends with a short meditation period, where stillness helps us connect with the energy within before reconnecting with the outside world.

SUN and YANG STYLES

In the Sun style, we are certified by the Tai Chi for Health Institute to teach the “Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention” program, created by Dr Paul Lam. It is easy to learn, proven to improve health and quality of life, and is supported by Arthritis Australia and arthritis foundations worldwide.

In the Yang style, we teach the 37 Posture Form developed by Cheng Man-ching (1900-1975), who was an eminent disciple of Yang Cheng Fu, grandson of the founder of the Yang style, Yang Luchan. Also known as the “Yang Short Form”, it condenses the original Yang 108 posture form into 37 distinct movements that contain the essence of the practice.

FOCUS

Learning Tai Chi is a slow but rewarding process, and there is no rush to learn the next move or form. Indeed, right from the start, the focus is on relaxation and letting go of unnecessary tension while quietening the mind. This can be practiced during the warm-up, the Shibashi or other qigong sets, the deceptively simple “lifting and sinking” exercise, or the Tai Chi form.

Refining the process of relaxing and moving from the ground up and our centre (as opposed to our heads and hands) helps us develop an acute awareness of ourselves… and others. With time, we also become more centred and grounded in our daily lives.

Better balance, posture, patience, memory, self-confidence, etc. are just side benefits!

What about the teacher?

After decades of yoga practice, Olivier took up Tai Chi and Qigong in the late 2000s and hasn’t looked back since. A keen runner and long-term meditator, he is particularly drawn to Tai Chi as “moving meditation”. Over the years, Olivier has studied different styles (Wu, Chen, Yang and Sun) with many prominent teachers in Australia, Germany, New Zealand, the USA, and his native France. His focus is on the Yang and Sun styles and he holds teaching certification in the Sun style.

Olivier’s experience as a teacher is broad. Quite apart from Tai Chi and Qigong, he has coached soccer, worked as a French language tutor and facilitated meditation groups.

His teaching style is precise, yet relaxed and caring. It is informed by years of volunteering in palliative care and mental health, and is people and community centered.

In addition to Coogee, Bronte and Rose Bay Tai Chi classes, Olivier regularly teaches Seniors’ classes in Bondi and Bondi Junction for Waverley Council. He also offers (seated) Qigong and Tai Chi classes in aged care facilities throughout the Eastern Suburbs.

He is a member of the Tai Chi Association of Australia and strives to develop his skills under the ongoing guidance of his teacher and by attending multi-day masterclasses overseas.

What are the benefits of Tai Chi?

BODY

Strengthens the bones, muscles and tendons
Loosens and lubricates the joints – increasing mobility and range of motion
Improves alignment, posture, balance and coordination – reducing the risk of falls
Increases spatial awareness and peripheral vision
Decompresses the spinal column
Promotes natural, abdominal breathing
Relaxes the parasympathetic nervous system – increasing the experience of flow
Improves the circulation of energy and blood – strengthening the heart, lungs and other vital organs

MIND

Improves concentration and memory
Increases conscious awareness
Calms the mind (thinking process) and promotes clarity
Develops the ability to remain grounded in difficult situations
Builds self-confidence
Provides a lifelong learning experience

WORLD

Satisfies the need for social interaction
Promotes a better understanding of the natural flow of the world
Fosters openness and a non-judgemental approach

Testimonials

Tai Chi Randwick / Tai Chi by the Sea

4.9

Based on 22 reviews

review us on

Amanda Magri

22:40 06 Jul 25

Olivier provides a calm and welcoming shared space in a beautiful outdoor beach Environment. He’s very warm , patient and personable and always welcomes questions from his students. His tai chi classes are casual and relaxed exploring not just the form but also all the Many different layers and benefits of tai chi as a practice.
Whether it’s to improve your fitness , mobility function ,balance ,flexibility ,for mindfulness to help with stress ,or even as a social activity
I highly recommend Olivier‘s tai chi classes for all ages and levels 😊

Suzanne

03:13 06 Jul 25

I have loved learning about Tai Chi from Olivier. He is a calm, patient and dedicated teacher. His guidance creates a peaceful place, where you feel supported. Its wonderful to have some time to be grounded and mindful on all parts of the experience and learning.

Ann Armstrong

02:48 06 Jul 25

A wonderful teacher. With only one term, Olivier has taught me so much with his gentle and insightful way. I look forward to continuing the journey..

Mindy T.

22:16 13 Apr 25

Olivier is a warm friendly and super patient and engaging teacher! I always liked the idea of Tai Chi but wasn’t sure where to start. My favourite part of my week is being in the park by the beach learning the art of tai chi moves. It’s like naturally getting grounded and yet it’s like an ‘active mindfulness’. I notice a huge difference in my day and week after classes. Olivier even shows us simple repeating grounding moves that can be done anywhere.

Gwen Garrett

01:49 11 Oct 24

Love these Tai Chi classes with Olivier, he is a great teacher very professional & patient & calm. Learning so much about this beautiful practice spending time in Bronte park with ocean over your shoulder. Best experience ever … so highly recommend for any one at any age, Olivier is the best

Carolyn O'Donnell

00:49 08 Oct 24

Such a nice hour of Tai Chi spent under the Bronte sky

Sandra Korch

21:33 06 Oct 24

Wonderful gentle exercise connecting mind to body in a beautiful outdoor setting at Coogee. We are guided through the poses by Olivier at an easy pace and at the end of each session you leave with a feeling of tranquillity.

Xanti Bootcov

06:09 04 Oct 24

I’ve been enjoying Tai Chi classes at Bronte Beach Park for some time now.

Olivier, the instructor, is an incredible teacher. He is patient, knowledgeable, and encouraging. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, he makes everyone feel welcome and at ease. Olivier’s method of breaking down each move is clear, and he’s always happy to provide individual feedback if needed. Each class is a beautiful balance of mindfulness, gentle movement, and energy flow, and I always leave feeling both relaxed and refreshed.

If you’re looking for a calm and fulfilling way to connect with your body and mind, I highly recommend these Tai Chi classes in the park! The fresh air, the tranquil atmosphere, and Olivier's expert guidance make this an unbeatable experience.

Miranda Brauwers-Kuijsten

22:10 03 Oct 24

I really love every class from Olivier teaching me Tai Chi. He not only shows the moves, he explains in a calm manner the principles and the purpose. He shows us what happens in the body by moving it in a proper way that is beneficial for your whole wellbeing. I have been doing his Tai Chi lessons now for almost two years and I really feel the benefits. I recommend Olivier Tai Chi classes wholeheartedly!

Deborah Corbett

21:19 03 Oct 24

I look forward to every Tai Chi class with Olivier. I have Parkinson's and I find that it helps my balance enormously. Olivier caters well for 'newbies' and those who have been doing it for a while. I could actually feel some improvement in my movement after doing two classes a week for a couple of terms.

“Olivier, I am very grateful for your patience, guidance & instruction.

The difference the Tai Chi & Qigong has made in my posture, pain reduction & ability to be Present is remarkable. Thank you.”

Deborah

“Learning with Olivier outdoors at Coogee is both physically and emotionally uplifting, and a great way to loosen up tired and sore joints and enjoy the moving meditation that Tai Chi offers, often after a difficult and demanding week.”

Abigail