Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #96377 in Books
• Published on: 2005-05
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 124 pages

Synopsis
The most important and fundamental text of the art - from the founder of Tai Ji Quan; Master Yang Cheng Fu Until now - never published in English - will ensure that this book is a top selling martial arts title All martial artists will be interested in this book - gives detailed descriptions of the combative applications of Tai Ji Quan that are rumored about but rarely seen Including copious notation and explanation, the book will illuminate and illustrate the essence of Tai Ji Quan as the founder presented it The founder of the most popular martial art in the world, Tai Ji Quan (also known as T'ai Chi Ch'uan) was Master Yang Cheng Fu. He wrote a book that was published in China during the 1930's. Until now that text has remained a mystery to those who don't speak Chinese. For the first time it will be published in English by North Atlantic Books. Translator Louis Swaim, who brought us Fu Zhong Wen's "Mastering Yang Style Taijiquan" in 1999, has expertly rendered Master Yang's writings into English. Including copious notation and explanation, the book will illuminate and illustrate the essence of Tai Ji Quan as the founder presented it.

Customer Reviews

A fascinating insight into the practice of a master.
Having practiced Tai Chi Chuan for several years, I have found this book to be a valuable study aid and reference source.
Sometimes the applications can be slightly hard to follow, but if you stand up and have a go, then all becomes clear.

A very good book, and highly recommended for practitioners of Tai Chi Chuan.

A matter of opinion
Yang style is the most popular style practised, with elegent moves and a well documented history (somewhat brief). However, Yang style has lost some of its glory, it is now more for aesthetics and exercise than a fighting style. Then again, perhaps we may have not had the right Yang style masters to teach it or write such books. Some might say this book is a waste of time, but I would say that it is quite interesting to see the words (translated) and pictures of an old master demonstrating Yang style. In terms of practical combat applications, it is always best to go to classes. Books however are always good for theory. Never read just one book as some might and never ignore masters of other Tai Chi styles or even other schools of Kung Fu. Because you might learn something. This book is of academic interest and value for money. Whilst I am a Wudang stylist, reading this book does no harm.

good but the synopsis provided is false
This is a classic text written by an indubitable master. He was not however tyhe founder of Taijiquan , but of the Yang style thereof. That honour belongs to General Chen Wangtin or possibly the legendary Zhang San Feng. The yang style is however the most widely practised and though it is better adapted to excercise than martial application itss founder was a renowned fighter and knew what he was talking about . Read this book, but for martial application the Chen and Sun styles are more suitable