The Bensenville Park District is expanding its popular Tai Chi program with the addition of a new evening class at Wood Street Fitness, giving more participants the opportunity to experience the physical and mental benefits of the ancient practice.
The new class will meet from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. Wednesdays at Wood Street Fitness, located inside the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St. in Bensenville. Participants are invited to try the class during a free introductory session Wednesday, July 22, before the seven-week session begins July 29 and continues through Sept. 10.
The evening class will be led by Schaumburg-area husband-and-wife instructors Jay and Linda Burke, who have taught the Bensenville Park District's Wednesday morning Tai Chi class for several years. The couple completed Yang Style Tai Chi training in 1998 and has been sharing the practice with students of all ages and experience levels at park districts throughout the Chicago area ever since.
Jay Burke said he and his wife first discovered Tai Chi while looking for a relaxing activity they could enjoy together and found a lifelong passion that eventually became a way to help others improve their health and well-being.
"Tai Chi has given us the opportunity to help people build confidence, improve balance and find a sense of calm," he said. "Whether someone is trying it for the first time or has years of experience, everyone can benefit from moving mindfully and learning at their own pace."
Linda Burke said the class focuses on helping participants feel stronger both physically and mentally through simple, accessible movements.
"We want everyone who comes to class to leave feeling more relaxed, more balanced and better prepared to handle the stresses of everyday life," she said. "Tai Chi is something people can continue practicing long after class ends, making it a valuable tool for lifelong wellness."
The seven-week session is $60 per participant. Advance registration is required to ensure the class meets the minimum enrollment needed to run. Once the class has been confirmed, drop-in participants will be accepted for $10 per class, or $8 for in-district patrons, as space allows.
The Tai Chi class is included with the Wood Street Fitness Core Class Pass and is offered exclusively in person.
For more information about the Tai Chi class or the complete Wood Street Fitness group fitness schedule, visit WoodStFitness.com/Classes. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St. in Bensenville, or call 630-766-7015.
