Chen Style TaiJi

TaiJi Chuan is a form of martial art born in China a few hundred years ago for the purpose of combat and defense in an era of civil instability.  Over time, different branches have evolved to teach significantly different styles.  Chen Style TaiJi is quite unlike the slow and mellow images typically seen in movies and on television.  Chen Style preserves more of the power, speed, and agility of its martial art roots, yet still has the health improvement qualities through posture, breathing techniques, and mental focus.

Traditionally, Chinese martial arts are taught through specific composed and choreographed routines. Each group of movement is given a name, often a poetic phrase from classical literature. The universally recognized bare hand Chen Style Tai Chi routines are:

- Old Frame First Routine
- Old Frame Second Routine
- New Frame First Routine
- New Frame Second Routine

There are other modern day routines such as the 18 posture, 38 posture, 48 posture, and 56 posture routines, just to name a few.  For more information, check out the Wikipedia page.

TaiJi Chuan also has weaponry routines, such as straight sword, broad sword (saber), and spear. Unsharpened weapons for exercise are available for purchase from several vendors in the United States.