By Debbie Adams
A new free Tai Chi-based class, “Eight Immortals Tai Chi Cane and Defensive Cane Class,”
kicked-off on August 12 at the Charles R. Hill Community Center. Steve Garay, who taught
basic Tai Chi classes for many years at the Community Center, is the instructor. He is also the
pastor of the Oakview Church of God where he has served for about 25 years.
and Defensive Cane Class began at the Charles R. Hill Community Center in Vinton on August
12. (photos by Debbie Adams)
He got hooked on the Tai Chi discipline when he enrolled in a class at Virginia Western
Community College and realized it “was a perfect fit for me.” Although the movements in Tai
Chi appear to be simple, Garay says they take time and patience to master.
He noticed a significant improvement in his balance, flexibility, and focus within a few weeks,
and went on to teach Tai Chi himself at VWCC, in Vinton, and at other locations, and at various
events.
Most people think of Tai Chi as a gentle form of exercise with extremely slow circular
movements perfect mainly for seniors, but actually Tai Chi is a form of martial arts derived from
Chinese Kung Fu. That’s where the new class Garay is teaching comes in.
The “Eight Immortals Tai Chi Cane and Defensive Cane Class” is somewhat different from basic
Tai Chi movements— a very special routine. It involves an actual walking cane, which
individuals in the class learn to use for self-defense. While there are still simple methodical
movements, one following another, there are also powerful moves, blocks, and explosive strikes
using the cane.
About 20 students attended the first class, primarily middle-aged and seniors. One of them was
Mike Ferguson who first learned basic Tai Chi from Garay and now is an instructor himself at
the Community Center on Thursday mornings. Some of the others were Ferguson’s students,
eager to learn more.
The first topic of discussion at the introductory class was what kind of cane was needed for best
results. Garay had brought a large selection with him and took time to discuss their pros and
cons. For example, lightweight aluminum canes are most likely too flimsy to provide much
protection, but they are adjustable in height; heavy duty ones are more useful.
Garay also demonstrated combat canes, stockman canes used to herd cattle, Bubba sticks (with
no hook), gentleman canes with fancy knobs, hardwood canes, and canes that disguised a sword
within. He had advice on where to buy canes sturdy enough for self-defense— drug stores, Walmart, Goodwill, medical supply stores, and yard sales. He noted that you should select a cane
that is the correct length for you or one that can be adjusted.
For those who didn’t bring a cane to practice or own one, Garay offered a check-out system from
his supply.
He demonstrated the correct way to walk with a cane (elbow bent and using the opposite foot
when walking, with the hook forward for more control).
“Canes help develop confidence, help you think defensively, and learn how to move in manner
so you don’t attract attention or don’t appear to be a target,” Garay said. “The cane becomes an
extension of you and your arm. Remember, canes can do damage.”
They can keep you safe and help you escape in a variety of situations such as threats from stray
dogs, animal predators (like coyotes), and the random mugger.
demonstrates defensive maneuvers using a cane.
The class next practiced swinging their canes (without clobbering each other) and then moved
into the Tai Chi routine, which involved more intricate movements in handling the canes, along
with strikes, blocks, and lunges. Garay said learning the Eight Immortals Tai Chi routine takes a
lot of repetitive practice.
The cane sessions last for an hour and will continue through the end of the year. The Charles R.
Hill Community Center is located on the grounds of the Vinton War Memorial.
For more information, contact Garay at steve_garay@yahoo.com.
