Beginners
Please read and agree to the following in its entirety. New classes open three times a year — and the first four classes set the foundation for everything that follows.
What you're committing to
Classes are free of charge. We require participants to purchase a WTC shirt as part of registration. You'll be required to wear your shirt to class and events.
Upon completion of the Beginners class — lifetime membership. If you're unable to pay, let us know and we can make arrangements.
You'll learn the Yang 8-step form — smooth and fluid movements that establish the foundation postures for every other form taught at WTC.
The curriculum runs four months. Once completed, you advance to the intermediate class.
You must attend the first four consecutive sessions. Check your calendar before registering.
Classes are limited in size. A no-show takes someone else's spot and will disqualify you from participation for one year, and forfeit your registration fee and shirt.
You must be ambulatory and able to stand for a minimum of one hour. Classes run approximately one hour with several water breaks.
A remedial class meets Friday at 8:00 AM — ask instructors for details after your fourth class. Don't come to class if you can't stay for the complete session.
Courtesies
The dojo is shared. These small acts — bowing, silence, soft shoes — keep the room available to the next person, and the next, and the next.
Be on time.
Sessions start promptly at their designated meeting times. If you are late, do not enter the dojo while class is in session.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
WTC shirts (and pants after the fifth week) for practices and special activities. Change in the bathroom or locker room — not in the dojo.
WTC shirts and pants are uniform.
You must wear them to practice and other activities. You will not be permitted to participate without your uniform.
Soft, flat-sole shoes.
Recommended by experts. No sneakers — they grip the floor. No bare feet (socks are permitted).
No lotions or perfumes.
It is very important that we are not impeded in deep breathing. Smokers, please don't come smelling of cigarette smoke — you will be asked to leave or change clothes before the session.
Set mobile devices to silent or off.
Bring bottled drinking water.
You will not be permitted out of the dojo. It is now mandatory to bring portable drinking water.
Stop all conversation when entering the dojo.
Maintain classroom protocol.
Bow when entering and exiting the dojo. Notify WTC by text or email of absence. Don't disturb the class when departing — leave only during breaks. If a class is in session, wait until the next water break to enter the dojo.
Help with setup and teardown.
Please assist helpers in moving banners and computers to the storeroom. At the KBCC classroom, tables and chairs must be put back.
Most importantly — leave the outside world at the door.
Begin
The next beginners classes open in June 2026 and October 2026. Register online — or send us a note and we'll save you a spot.
Register for a beginners class