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Marc Phillip Black

Master Instructor • Cultural Movement Educator • Mobility Specialist

40 years experience in TaiJi, QiGong, senior wellness, and community-based programs.

Founder:
Attaining Softness TaiJiQuan Association (ASTA)
Black Mountain Spirit School of Chinese Kung Fu

Pittsburgh, PA

About the Instructor

Marc Black is a master-level TaiJi and QiGong instructor with four decades of experience preserving, teaching, and transmitting traditional Chinese internal arts. His training integrates cultural heritage, martial arts lineage, and modern movement science. He is widely known for his ability to translate ancient movement principles into accessible, effective practices for older adults, beginners, and individuals with mobility challenges.

Marc’s teaching blends:

  • cultural authenticity

  • compassionate instruction

  • trauma-informed practice

  • accessible movement

  • community-building

  • health and mobility awareness

His work creates spaces where people feel grounded, capable, and connected — regardless of age, background, or physical condition.

Areas of Expertise

Cultural Movement Arts

  • Yang Family TaiJiQuan

  • QiGong

  • Traditional Chinese Mobility Practices

  • Philosophical & cultural interpretation

Community Health & Wellness

  • Senior mobility & balance training

  • Fall-prevention practices

  • Breathwork & stress reduction

  • Adaptive movement for limited mobility

Educational & Community Leadership

  • Program design for nonprofits

  • Intergenerational wellness programming

  • Trauma-sensitive instruction

  • Grant-based community programming

Teaching Philosophy

Marc believes that TaiJi is more than movement — it is a cultural legacy passed through the body, breath, and spirit. His approach is rooted in honoring tradition while meeting modern community needs. He teaches with the conviction that softness is strength and that every person deserves access to wellness practices that are gentle, respectful, and empowering.

Program Offerings

  • TaiJi for Mobility & Fall-Prevention

  • QiGong for Breath & Stress Relief

  • Senior Wellness Workshops

  • Cultural Arts Presentations & Demonstrations

  • Multi-week community programs

  • Corporate wellness TaiJi & mindful movement

Relevant Experience

  • 40 years of private and group instruction

  • TaiJi curriculum development for adults & seniors

  • Program partnerships with community organizations

  • Experience teaching virtually & in-person across states

  • Deep background supporting adults with physical limitations

Professional Vision

Marc’s mission is to bring accessible cultural movement arts to underserved communities, supporting healthier aging, stronger mobility, and deeper social connection throughout Pittsburgh and beyond.

Contact Us

To discuss bringing this TaiJi program to your HAL center, senior residence, or community organization:

Email: bms1pgh@gmail.com

Phone: 412-759-8570

Website: www.ghosthand.org