Our Instructors

Sifu Dr. Dennis Dilday, D.C

Practical Tai Chi Chuan Instructor Level 6

Dr. Dennis Dilday is a dedicated Wudang-style Tai Chi teacher, chiropractor, and movement specialist based in Everett, WA. His Tai Chi journey began in the mid‑1990s under Ian Blogg and Gordy Halgren, who introduced him to the Wudang lineage of Master Chen Tin Hung. Driven by a desire for practical self-defense, he committed fully by training under Dan Docherty in London beginning in 2002.

As a certified chiropractor of over 39 years, he brings exceptional attention to biomechanical precision and therapeutic movement to his instruction. He emphasizes exact posture, alignment, and structural integrity—underlining Tai Chi’s transformative potential: “Fifteen minutes a day of practice will change your life.”

Teaching Philosophy

Dennis believes teaching is about meeting students where they are— understanding their goals and offering tailored guidance, rather than imposing his own agenda. His clear, measured style opens pathways into both the meditative “soft” aspects of Tai Chi and the deeper martial components of self-defense and internal strength.

Featured Instructor Practical Tai Chi International Dennis Dilday, D.C. reflects on his Tai Chi journey

Sidai Derek Mair

Practical Tai Chi Chuan Instructor Level 3

Derek fell in love with Tai Chi in 2023 and has been studying and practicing regularly under both Dennis and Alex. Originally looking for basic health improvement for arthritic knees and multiple spinal fusions, Derek has noted that the daily practice of Tai Chi has improved just about everything he does and has helped with strength, balance and coordination.

In 2026, after learning Spear Form, Derek was granted Instructor Level 3 and looks forward to sharing what he feels is an immensely beneficial practice.