About Us
Welcome to Tai Chi With Yifan, a dedicated Tai Chi school based in Naperville, Illinois. We are passionate about sharing the authentic practice of Yang Style Tai Chi with our local community and beyond. Our mission is simple: to help people of all ages and backgrounds discover the profound physical, mental, and emotional benefits of Tai Chi in a supportive, welcoming, and professional environment.
At Tai Chi With Yifan, we believe Tai Chi is more than just a series of movements it is a complete mind body practice that can bring greater balance, calmness, vitality, and joy into everyday life.
Our Story
My Work
Tai Chi With Yifan was founded by Yifan Zhao with a clear vision to create a space where people could learn traditional Yang Style Tai Chi in a way that feels approachable, meaningful, and truly beneficial for modern life.
After years of dedicated training in China and the United States, Yifan wanted to bring the authentic teachings of Tai Chi to the Naperville community. She noticed many people were looking for gentle yet effective ways to reduce stress, improve balance, increase flexibility, and find inner peace. This inspired her to open Tai Chi With Yifan, a school that honors traditional roots while making Tai Chi accessible to beginners, adults, and seniors alike.
Since opening, we have helped hundreds of local residents experience the transformative power of Tai Chi. Our students range from busy professionals seeking stress relief to seniors wanting to maintain mobility and independence.
Meet Yifan Zhao Founder & Instructor
Yifan Zhao is the heart and soul of Tai Chi With Yifan. With a deep background in traditional Chinese martial arts and wellness practices, Yifan brings both technical expertise and genuine warmth to her teaching.
Her journey with Tai Chi began at a young age in China. Over the years, she immersed herself in the study of Yang Style Tai Chi, training under respected masters and refining her understanding of its principles, philosophy, and health applications. Yifan’s teaching style is known for its clarity, patience, and attention to detail. She excels at breaking down complex movements into simple, learnable steps while preserving the depth and integrity of the traditional art.
Students often describe Yifan as encouraging, knowledgeable, and deeply caring. She takes time to understand each student’s individual goals and creates a learning experience that feels personal and supportive.
Our Philosophy
At Tai Chi With Yifan, we follow three guiding principles:
- Authenticity We teach traditional Yang Style Tai Chi with respect for its rich cultural heritage and proven methods.
- Accessibility Tai Chi should be available to everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or previous experience.
- Holistic Wellness We focus on the complete benefits of Tai Chi improving physical health, mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall quality of life.
We believe Tai Chi is not just exercise. It is a lifelong practice that supports healthy aging, stress management, better focus, and inner harmony.
What Sets Us Apart
- Small Class Sizes We maintain small groups so every student receives individual attention and personalized feedback.
- Patient Instruction Our teaching is designed for real beginners. No prior experience is necessary.
- Focus on Yang Style We specialize in the graceful and health oriented Yang Style, known worldwide for its effectiveness.
- Supportive Community Students often form lasting friendships and motivate each other on their Tai Chi journey.
- Flexible Options We offer group classes, private lessons, and customized programs for different needs.
Our Commitment to Students
We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment where everyone feels respected and valued. Whether you are looking to improve balance, reduce stress, increase flexibility, or simply try something new and meaningful, we are here to support your goals.
Every class is taught with care, attention to proper technique, and a focus on helping you experience the real benefits of Tai Chi not just during class, but in your daily life.
Why People Choose Tai Chi With Yifan
Students choose us because they feel truly seen and supported. Many come to us feeling overwhelmed, stiff, or out of balance. Through consistent practice, they report feeling stronger, calmer, more confident, and more connected with their bodies.
We take pride in being part of our students’ wellness journeys and watching them grow both physically and mentally.
Our Vision for the Future
We envision a Naperville community where Tai Chi is a natural part of many people’s lives a place where individuals of all ages can come together to move, breathe, and cultivate health and peace.
We are continuously working to expand our programs, deepen our teaching, and reach more people who can benefit from this beautiful practice.
Join Our Tai Chi Community
Whether you are taking your very first steps into Tai Chi or looking to deepen an existing practice, we warmly welcome you to Tai Chi With Yifan.We offer classes suitable for complete beginners, continuing students, adults, and seniors. Our goal is to make your Tai Chi journey enjoyable, rewarding, and sustainable for years to come.Thank you for considering Tai Chi With Yifan as part of your wellness path. We look forward to welcoming you to our classes and supporting you on your journey toward better health, balance, and inner peace.
Ready to Begin?
Contact us today to learn more about our current class schedule, private lessons, or to ask any questions you may have. We are here to help you take that important first step.
Location: Naperville, Illinois Instructor: Yifan Zhao
Discover the gentle power of authentic Yang Style Tai Chi with a caring and experienced teacher who is truly passionate about your success.
(Yang Style Tai Chi – Simplified 24 Forms)
(David-Dorian Ross)
Application for Self-Defense