SF first tai chi court opens in McLaren Park

(SAN FRANCISCO) Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that is practiced today as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing. From now on, tai chi lovers can practice in a newly-designed tai chi court in San Francisco’s McLaren Park.

It is the first public space designed and dedicated specifically for the practice of tai chi in San Francisco. The opening ceremony was held last Saturday on March 19 with ribbon cutting to announce the completion of the project.

According to the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, the Mansell Tai Chi Court, located on John F. Shelley Drive near Mansell Street in Visitacion Valley neighborhood, resembles a plaza with low berms offering protection from the wind. It offers sweeping views of downtown San Francisco.

The tai chi court was formerly a decommissioned parking lot. Under the $1.16 million project, funded through the 2012 Clean and Safe Neighborhood Parks Bond, the parking lot was transformed and put new trees, seating, and landscaping into. It also offers a new, accessible parking space and entry path from John F. Shelley Drive.

The 4,500 square foot tai chi court was designed specifically for tai chi exercises. An asphalt path was realigned south to pass behind the court to offer uninterrupted views from the court and improve park circulation for hikers, bikers, and dog walkers. All park goes are welcome to visit and admire the great view of the City.

“Tai chi is a wonderfully healthy activity for people of all ages,” said San Francisco Recreation and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg. “Tai chi practitioners practitioners can be found nearly all of our parks, but this is the first time a public space has been designed specifically for their needs. We are thrilled to help the tai chi community grow and thrive.”

“We are excited to open up the Mansell Tai Chi Court in McLaren for all of our communities to gather and practice tai chi and admire the view,” said Board President and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton. “This adds to the much needed vibrancy for the southeastern neighborhoods of San Francisco.”

Tai chi is low impact and puts minimal stress on muscles and joints, making it generally safe for all ages and fitness levels. Because of the nature of the tai chi, it is especially suitable for older adults and seniors. Tai chi is very popular among the Chinese retirees and seniors in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Before the tai chi court was opened, a passionate group of tai chi practitioners shared space with tennis players at the McLaren Park’s tennis courts for a long time.

The growing popularity of both activities prompted park neighbors to identify building a tai chi court as a top priority in the McLaren Park Vision Plan at 2018.