Robert Michael formally began studying and practicing Taijiquan (T’ai Chi Ch’uan) and Qigong (Chi Kung) in 1993 at Central Connecticut Tai Chi Ch’uan (CCTCC) in Meriden, CT. Bob was certified to teach Cheng Man-Ching’s 37-Posture Yang-Style T’ai Chi Ch’uan Short Form in 1997 by CCTCC. He has also attended various Taijiquan and Qigong workshops and seminars with noted teachers from around the country, including the late Master Jou, Tsung Hwa, Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, Dr. Jay Dunbar, and Dr. John Painter. Bob has also recently begun a study of the Li Family Jiulong Baguazhang and Taijiquan with Dr. Painter.

Prior to studying Taijiquan, Bob trained in other martial arts beginning in 1976, attaining the rank of 1st Degree Black Belt (Sho Dan) in Chinese Kenpo in 1989. A major part of his training in Kenpo consisted of learning to teach the system to beginner and advanced students of all ages.

Bob has been teaching Taijiquan classes as part of CCTCC and on his own since 1997. He also teaches at the Senior Centers in Middletown and Haddam and at several rehabilitation and retirement facilities. Bob has also been a guest instructor at the University of New Haven and Middlesex Community College.