Different Forms of Tai Chi

Tai chi, which means "supreme ultimate fist," originated in China as a form of self defense. Described as "meditation in motion," today tai chi is primarily practiced as an exercise program that uses slow, flowing movements to achieve a relaxed mind and body. There are numerous forms of tai chi, all of which use the same basic concepts. The primary differences are the poses and the pace of the movements.

Chen Tai Chi

The oldest known form of tai chi is the Chen style, which was established by Chen Wangting from the Chen Village in the Henan province of China in the 1600s. Chen tai chi is characterized by lower, deeper stances and varied pacing. The individual uses coiling twists and turns to conserve energy and then releases the energy in explosive moves. The other popular forms of tai chi can all be traced back to the Chen style. The Chen form of tai chi ranks third in global popularity.

Yang Tai Chi

The Yang style is the most frequently practiced form of tai chi. Yang tai chi was developed by Yang Luchan in the mid- to late-1800s. The Yang style removed the vigorous, explosive movements of Chen tai chi and replaced it with a uniformly slow pace of performance. Yang tai chi is characterized by graceful, flowing moves, simultaneously developing strength and softness. The stances are wide and the hands stay loose and open in all movements.

Sun Tai Chi

The Sun form of tai chi was founded by a Taoist scholar named Sun Lutang in the early 1900s. Sun tai chi is characterized by its unique footwork; when one foot moves forward or backward, the other foot follows. The Sun form is also well-known for its smooth, flowing moves and open palm hand movements. The high stances and gentle postures make it a popular form of exercise for senior citizens and individuals recovering from injuries. The Sun form of tai chi ranks fourth in world popularity.

Wu Tai Chi

The Wu form of tai chi was established by Wu Quanyu in the late 1800s, and is currently the second most commonly practiced tai chi style in the world. Wu tai chi is characterized by its use of weapons, throws and tumbling moves. This style focuses on pressure point leverage, jumping and foot sweeps. More advanced students typically study fencing and sparring as well. Wu tai chi uses a narrow stance with the feet placed fairly close together and parallel to one another.

Wu Hao Tai Chi

The Wu Hao form of tai chi was founded by Wu Yuxiang around the turn of the nineteenth centurey, and is sometimes referred to as the Wu Yuxiang style. The founder of the Wu Hao form learned the Yang style from Yang Luchan himself and then went on to study the Chen style. The Wu Hao form involves subtle, small movements and high posture. It focuses primarily on developing internal energy, sensitivity, calmness and balance. This form of tai chi is rarely seen today.

History

Popular Chinese legends attribute the origins of tai chi to Zhang Sanfeng, a Taoist monk in fifteenth-century China, who once observed a crane trying to carry a snake. The monk was impressed by the serpent's ability to swiftly but subtly avoid the crane's beak, and he created a type of martial art that involved evading the blow instead of using force. He designed specific moves that used the opponent's force and momentum against him.

Resources

• Online Tai Chi Training