"How much you accomplish depends
entirely on how much you put in."
entirely on how much you put in."
| Practicing the straight sword |
| Practicing the Spear |
| Practicing the Saber |
"All that idle talk does, is create a tide of black ink;
actually putting it into practice is the real thing."
actually putting it into practice is the real thing."
| Chen Xin |
Commonly Asked Questions:
There are many benefits to the practice of Chen Style Taijiquan. These can be seen on the benefits section of the Chen Style
Taijiquan page. And many people have begun learning Chen Style Taijiquan for any and all of these reasons and more, as can be
found in the multitude of other Taijiquan resources available. However, students who stay with the practice of Chen Style
Taijiquan do so simply because they have fallen in love with the art, not so much anymore for how it affects their immune system,
aids in their balance, or gives them a more powerful punch. The art somehow speaks to some aspect of themselves in such a
way that they cannot go through a day without some type of practice. This is a deeper reason for practicing anything: it speaks
to your soul. Consider starting Chen Style Taijiquan as an opportunity to explore yourself through the framework of this art.
What does Taijiquan or Tai Chi Chuan mean?
The word Taijiquan and Tai Chi Chuan mean exactly the same thing; they are simply different ways of spelling the Chinese words
in the English language. However, strictly speaking, the correct spelling is "Taijiquan", the official Pinyin method of spelling Chinese
words. Taijiquan means "Grand Ultimate" or "Universal Fist". More specifically Tai Means grand or bigger than big. Ji means the
polar opposites of positive and negative, small and big, up and down, etc., and everything else in between. And quan means fist.
But if you place quan after a name, as in Chen Shi Taijiquan (Chen Style Taijiquan), it oftentimes will mean a martial or boxing style.
Why are there so many styles of Taijiquan? Is any one better than the other?
The origin of Taijiquan as we understand it today begins with the Chen family and has evolved through successive generations
into five major families. These are the Chen, Yang, Wu, Wu (Hao), and Sun Styles. It doesn't matter what style of Taijiquan is
studied; all the styles have everything to offer in health, self defense, and personal development. However the benefits of
studying Taijiquan depend entirely on the instructor and how much knowledge they are willing to impart to the prospective
practitioner. Some emphasize only the health aspect and others focus more on self defense. It is important to remember that the
maximum benefit in Taijiquan can only be achieved when it is practiced as a complete martial art, involving both health and self
defense. So new students should try various instructors and styles to find one that suits their particular needs, but at the same
time the they should always remain open to instructors who teach the widest range of knowledge and training. This will always
keep the door open to new avenues of maturation and transformation.
What is a form?
The Taijiquan forms are a specific choreography of movements that emphasize various aspects of the martial movements and
athletic skills that are inherent in the Chen Style Taijiquan curriculum. These forms are either barehanded or involve various forms
of weaponry.
What are the different forms in Chen Style Taijiquan?
The Curriculum page displays the various forms and weaponry that the Qing Long Athletic Association teaches.
Are there any ranking systems in Chen Style Taijiquan?
Traditionally Chen Style Taijiquan does not provide a ranking system. The student is simply taught new material as they become
ready for it. This encourages the emotional development of the student in that they should not rely on external symbols to display
their prowess. However ranking can become useful in larger classes where there are many different levels of students. In this
case it is simply a teaching tool to more effectively aid students at their particular level of training. Our school has initiated a
standardized ranking system just for this purpose. And it can be seen on the Curriculum page.
Is it only for elderly people?
In China people of all age groups and athletic levels can be seen practicing Taijiquan. The Blue Dragon Kung Fu Martial Arts and
Wellness Center also trains all age groups and athletic abilities. Chen Style Taijiquan is wonderful in that it can be modified for
various age groups and levels of training. The forms have three basic levels of training: High, Medium, and Low. Usually Medium
to Low stances are used for younger students and for building athletic prowess and Kung Fu. Kung Fu does not necessarily
mean martial art, instead it means the accumulation of skill through hard work and effort. The Medium to High stances are used in
all age groups and is for developing Martial purpose and application. The High stances are more often used by elderly
practitioners and is usually where qi flow and other internal work is more easily developed.
How long does it take to learn Chen Style Taijiquan? What is the training like?
The training begins with a basic understanding of stances and principles of body motion and structure. These are the Stance
Training, Chan Si Jing (silk reeling), and Walking exercises. Learning and refining these exercises will normally take about a
month's worth of classes. After the student gains proficiency in the basics they will begin learning the first form. This is Lao Jia
Yi Lu, or Old Frame First Routine. This will take anywhere between six to eight months of practice. The total length of time it takes
a student to become proficient (and not necessarily with mastery) with the entire system, weapons and all, takes an average of
nine years of constant training and practice. Mastery and perfection of the art will take a lifetime as there is always something to
improve upon. However, exercises for health and martial arts can be learned right after the first day; there will always be
homework. These basic exercises learned in the first month form the foundation of the entire system and should always be
practiced.
Is it practiced only for health? What about self defense?
The student determines how they want to learn Chen Style Taijiquan. It is important to practice all levels of training (be it
barehanded and weapons forms, push hands, and self defense), because they are all inter-related and mutually benefit each
other. But students can specialize in certain areas for various reasons. Students who prefer more health related benefits will
focus on forms training, while those interested in the martial applications will center on push hands and self defense techniques.
When both aspects of forms and applications are combined the martial art will reveal the definition of its namesake: "Grand
Ultimate Fist."
What does it take to start learning Chen Style Taijiquan?
The first class is always free at the Blue Dragon Kung Fu Martial Arts and Wellness Center. And any prospective student should
bring loose comfortable clothing in which they will not mind sweating. The classes are athletic and are performed outdoors so
dress accordingly and bring water or other athletic beverages. If the student decides that they would like to continue studying
Chen Style Taijiquan with the Qing Long Athletic Association then they should fill out a registration form and ask the instructor
about tuition. Class conduct is simple in that when the instructor is speaking listen well and practice. This shows proper respect
for the instructor and the material. And the instructor is normally referred to as Lao Shi (pronounced laou shir) or Teacher.
Outside of this classes are quite informal. The only formality is the bowing at the beginning and end of the class.
Why are the forms so slow? Are there any fast forms?
There are only three forms in the Chen Style Taijiquan curriculum of the Blue Dragon Kung Fu Martial Arts and Wellnes Center that
are performed slowly. These are Lao Jia Yi Lu (Old Frame First Routine barehanded form), Xin Jia Yi Lu (New Frame First Routine
barehanded form), and Chen Shi Taiji Jian (Chen Style Taiji Sword). All the other forms are performed with moderate or fast
speed. Slow forms do not mean that Taiji practitioners fight in slow motion, instead they are slow in an effort to reinforce and train
particular principles of movement and athleticism. Upon gaining proficiency, these principles are sped up in other barehand and
weapons forms to emphasize martial application and improve stamina. Slow movements are a training tool, not the goal. They
provide a basis from which advanced kung fu can develop.
How often should I practice? Should I practice indoors or outdoors?
Ultimately the dedicated student should practice various facets of training on a daily basis. However the beginning student should
practice according to their daily schedule. If their schedule allows for fifteen minutes of practice outside of formal classes three
days a week then that's what they should do. If it allows for One hour's worth of practice twice a week then that's what they
have to work with. It is important that the beginning student does not practice too much and burn themselves out. Practice should
be moderate and comfortable. Only later when the student has achieved higher levels of kung fu should they start pushing
themselves further in their personal practice; this should be the case after the first form is learned. Idealistically outdoor practice
is best for the body in relationship to its environment and climate; it is best to practice once early in the mornings and once early in
the evenings. But if the weather does not permit it, then the student should practice indoors wherever and whenever it is
convenient. Regularly scheduled practice is always best, but some practice is always better than no practice.
Can I lose weight from practicing Chen Style Taijiquan?
Chen Style Taijiquan will completely train the body in all aspects of health. Summarily, with regularly disciplined practice and a
sensible diet, the body's weight and health will be optimized as per the student's particular body type. It is important to remember
not to get lost in society's and the popular media's unrealistic and often times unhealthy standards of so-called beauty. Each one
of us has beauty and health within our bodies and selves that can be revealed as nature has already provided. Natural and
optimal health and athleticism is what Chen Style Taijiquan and the Blue Dragon Kung Fu Martial Arts and Wellness Center
emphasize in its curriculum.
What kinds of results can I expect from practicing Chen Style Taijiquan?
Most students will feel the results after the first day of training. The primary emphasis in the beginning is strengthening the legs
and improving posture. As training progresses the entire body will be developed in all manner of athleticism. The benefits
summary gives a good overview of the health benefits. Students will always see results through all stages of training in Chen
Style Taijiquan.
There are many benefits to the practice of Chen Style Taijiquan. These can be seen on the benefits section of the Chen Style
Taijiquan page. And many people have begun learning Chen Style Taijiquan for any and all of these reasons and more, as can be
found in the multitude of other Taijiquan resources available. However, students who stay with the practice of Chen Style
Taijiquan do so simply because they have fallen in love with the art, not so much anymore for how it affects their immune system,
aids in their balance, or gives them a more powerful punch. The art somehow speaks to some aspect of themselves in such a
way that they cannot go through a day without some type of practice. This is a deeper reason for practicing anything: it speaks
to your soul. Consider starting Chen Style Taijiquan as an opportunity to explore yourself through the framework of this art.
What does Taijiquan or Tai Chi Chuan mean?
The word Taijiquan and Tai Chi Chuan mean exactly the same thing; they are simply different ways of spelling the Chinese words
in the English language. However, strictly speaking, the correct spelling is "Taijiquan", the official Pinyin method of spelling Chinese
words. Taijiquan means "Grand Ultimate" or "Universal Fist". More specifically Tai Means grand or bigger than big. Ji means the
polar opposites of positive and negative, small and big, up and down, etc., and everything else in between. And quan means fist.
But if you place quan after a name, as in Chen Shi Taijiquan (Chen Style Taijiquan), it oftentimes will mean a martial or boxing style.
Why are there so many styles of Taijiquan? Is any one better than the other?
The origin of Taijiquan as we understand it today begins with the Chen family and has evolved through successive generations
into five major families. These are the Chen, Yang, Wu, Wu (Hao), and Sun Styles. It doesn't matter what style of Taijiquan is
studied; all the styles have everything to offer in health, self defense, and personal development. However the benefits of
studying Taijiquan depend entirely on the instructor and how much knowledge they are willing to impart to the prospective
practitioner. Some emphasize only the health aspect and others focus more on self defense. It is important to remember that the
maximum benefit in Taijiquan can only be achieved when it is practiced as a complete martial art, involving both health and self
defense. So new students should try various instructors and styles to find one that suits their particular needs, but at the same
time the they should always remain open to instructors who teach the widest range of knowledge and training. This will always
keep the door open to new avenues of maturation and transformation.
What is a form?
The Taijiquan forms are a specific choreography of movements that emphasize various aspects of the martial movements and
athletic skills that are inherent in the Chen Style Taijiquan curriculum. These forms are either barehanded or involve various forms
of weaponry.
What are the different forms in Chen Style Taijiquan?
The Curriculum page displays the various forms and weaponry that the Qing Long Athletic Association teaches.
Are there any ranking systems in Chen Style Taijiquan?
Traditionally Chen Style Taijiquan does not provide a ranking system. The student is simply taught new material as they become
ready for it. This encourages the emotional development of the student in that they should not rely on external symbols to display
their prowess. However ranking can become useful in larger classes where there are many different levels of students. In this
case it is simply a teaching tool to more effectively aid students at their particular level of training. Our school has initiated a
standardized ranking system just for this purpose. And it can be seen on the Curriculum page.
Is it only for elderly people?
In China people of all age groups and athletic levels can be seen practicing Taijiquan. The Blue Dragon Kung Fu Martial Arts and
Wellness Center also trains all age groups and athletic abilities. Chen Style Taijiquan is wonderful in that it can be modified for
various age groups and levels of training. The forms have three basic levels of training: High, Medium, and Low. Usually Medium
to Low stances are used for younger students and for building athletic prowess and Kung Fu. Kung Fu does not necessarily
mean martial art, instead it means the accumulation of skill through hard work and effort. The Medium to High stances are used in
all age groups and is for developing Martial purpose and application. The High stances are more often used by elderly
practitioners and is usually where qi flow and other internal work is more easily developed.
How long does it take to learn Chen Style Taijiquan? What is the training like?
The training begins with a basic understanding of stances and principles of body motion and structure. These are the Stance
Training, Chan Si Jing (silk reeling), and Walking exercises. Learning and refining these exercises will normally take about a
month's worth of classes. After the student gains proficiency in the basics they will begin learning the first form. This is Lao Jia
Yi Lu, or Old Frame First Routine. This will take anywhere between six to eight months of practice. The total length of time it takes
a student to become proficient (and not necessarily with mastery) with the entire system, weapons and all, takes an average of
nine years of constant training and practice. Mastery and perfection of the art will take a lifetime as there is always something to
improve upon. However, exercises for health and martial arts can be learned right after the first day; there will always be
homework. These basic exercises learned in the first month form the foundation of the entire system and should always be
practiced.
Is it practiced only for health? What about self defense?
The student determines how they want to learn Chen Style Taijiquan. It is important to practice all levels of training (be it
barehanded and weapons forms, push hands, and self defense), because they are all inter-related and mutually benefit each
other. But students can specialize in certain areas for various reasons. Students who prefer more health related benefits will
focus on forms training, while those interested in the martial applications will center on push hands and self defense techniques.
When both aspects of forms and applications are combined the martial art will reveal the definition of its namesake: "Grand
Ultimate Fist."
What does it take to start learning Chen Style Taijiquan?
The first class is always free at the Blue Dragon Kung Fu Martial Arts and Wellness Center. And any prospective student should
bring loose comfortable clothing in which they will not mind sweating. The classes are athletic and are performed outdoors so
dress accordingly and bring water or other athletic beverages. If the student decides that they would like to continue studying
Chen Style Taijiquan with the Qing Long Athletic Association then they should fill out a registration form and ask the instructor
about tuition. Class conduct is simple in that when the instructor is speaking listen well and practice. This shows proper respect
for the instructor and the material. And the instructor is normally referred to as Lao Shi (pronounced laou shir) or Teacher.
Outside of this classes are quite informal. The only formality is the bowing at the beginning and end of the class.
Why are the forms so slow? Are there any fast forms?
There are only three forms in the Chen Style Taijiquan curriculum of the Blue Dragon Kung Fu Martial Arts and Wellnes Center that
are performed slowly. These are Lao Jia Yi Lu (Old Frame First Routine barehanded form), Xin Jia Yi Lu (New Frame First Routine
barehanded form), and Chen Shi Taiji Jian (Chen Style Taiji Sword). All the other forms are performed with moderate or fast
speed. Slow forms do not mean that Taiji practitioners fight in slow motion, instead they are slow in an effort to reinforce and train
particular principles of movement and athleticism. Upon gaining proficiency, these principles are sped up in other barehand and
weapons forms to emphasize martial application and improve stamina. Slow movements are a training tool, not the goal. They
provide a basis from which advanced kung fu can develop.
How often should I practice? Should I practice indoors or outdoors?
Ultimately the dedicated student should practice various facets of training on a daily basis. However the beginning student should
practice according to their daily schedule. If their schedule allows for fifteen minutes of practice outside of formal classes three
days a week then that's what they should do. If it allows for One hour's worth of practice twice a week then that's what they
have to work with. It is important that the beginning student does not practice too much and burn themselves out. Practice should
be moderate and comfortable. Only later when the student has achieved higher levels of kung fu should they start pushing
themselves further in their personal practice; this should be the case after the first form is learned. Idealistically outdoor practice
is best for the body in relationship to its environment and climate; it is best to practice once early in the mornings and once early in
the evenings. But if the weather does not permit it, then the student should practice indoors wherever and whenever it is
convenient. Regularly scheduled practice is always best, but some practice is always better than no practice.
Can I lose weight from practicing Chen Style Taijiquan?
Chen Style Taijiquan will completely train the body in all aspects of health. Summarily, with regularly disciplined practice and a
sensible diet, the body's weight and health will be optimized as per the student's particular body type. It is important to remember
not to get lost in society's and the popular media's unrealistic and often times unhealthy standards of so-called beauty. Each one
of us has beauty and health within our bodies and selves that can be revealed as nature has already provided. Natural and
optimal health and athleticism is what Chen Style Taijiquan and the Blue Dragon Kung Fu Martial Arts and Wellness Center
emphasize in its curriculum.
What kinds of results can I expect from practicing Chen Style Taijiquan?
Most students will feel the results after the first day of training. The primary emphasis in the beginning is strengthening the legs
and improving posture. As training progresses the entire body will be developed in all manner of athleticism. The benefits
summary gives a good overview of the health benefits. Students will always see results through all stages of training in Chen
Style Taijiquan.
Traditional Training in Modern Times:
The Three F’s of Training
Fundamentals (Ji Ben Gong)
Basic exercises and drills provide the foundations upon which the
entire art is built. This is crucial to proper development.
Forms (Tao Lu)
These complex choreographed sequences teach the near infinite
variety of combat techniques and refine body mechanics. The
complete curriculum of bare-hand and weapons forms for Chen
Style Taijiquan are taught.
Function
Partner work such as push hands, sparring, and self defense
applications bring Chen Style Taijiquan to life!
Fundamentals (Ji Ben Gong)
Basic exercises and drills provide the foundations upon which the
entire art is built. This is crucial to proper development.
Forms (Tao Lu)
These complex choreographed sequences teach the near infinite
variety of combat techniques and refine body mechanics. The
complete curriculum of bare-hand and weapons forms for Chen
Style Taijiquan are taught.
Function
Partner work such as push hands, sparring, and self defense
applications bring Chen Style Taijiquan to life!
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| American Chen Style Taijiquan Martial Arts Association Practice Location: Crain Park 9051 Triola Ln Houston, TX 77036 bluesiytangco@chenstyletaijiquan.org |
Kung fu means hard work, and kung fu masters always
caution against “flowery hands and dancing feet.” This
means that training should always have purpose, not
just look attractive. The meaning and application of all
the forms should be clear in the practitioners mind in
order for the art to be properly understood. Traditional
training provides this detailed level of instruction while
developing proper kung fu.