Product Description

Chen style is the oldest form of Taijiquan from which all the major styles originated. Created at the end of the Ming dynasty, it is based upon a profound body of ancient knowledge that has influenced the Chinese way of thinking through the ages. It draws upon the principles of the Yijing (Book of Change), the Yin-Yang theory, and Daoist philosophy. Chen style Taijiquan combines the study of traditional Chinese wu shu, movement science, and the Chinese medical theory of "jingluo" (energy channels), "daoyin" (leading and guiding energy), and "tu-na" (breathing methods), resulting in a comprehensive system of self-defence and a valuable health exercise. This text guides the reader through the historical development of the system, its philosophical roots, and through the intricacies of the various training methods of this unique form of Chinese boxing. Descriptions of the Silk-Reeling Exercise, Laojia Yi Lu, Laojia Paocui, Fajing, Qinna, Push Hands, and Taijiquan weapons are all featured. Legendary exploits of the Chen family are included to inspire today's practitioners.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #294372 in Books
• Published on: 2002-02-15
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 200 pages

Customer Reviews

Must have book for those practicing Chen style or any other
This book is simply brilliant, it is so full of information it should be labelled as an encyclopaedia. But the best thing is it is not boring or hard to read, instead it keeps the readers interest with anecdotes of taiji masters that demonstrate the theory it so easily explains. And better yet its very easy to read and also makes the theory very easy to understand and so accessable to all. If you are interested in Chen style taiji or indeed in learning any form of taiji then this book will only help you on your path. Excellent.

At last - a valuable resource book on Chen Style Taiji
This is not a book which uses its space pretending that it can teach you Taiji through complicated written instructions accompanied with pictures or drawings of various postures.
Instead, we have a book that is obviously well researched and cram packed full with useful information on the principles of Taiji practice - drawing from the Chen family writings and the Taiji classics.
The book concerns itself primarily with Chen Style Taiji, but the ideas and principles talked about will be relevant to exponents of all styles. Certainly all Chen Style practitioners will find this an invaluable resource and there is much in it that practitioners of other styles will find enlightens their understanding and appreciation of their art.
Highly recommended.

A throrough and well written book!
All serious taijiquan-practitioners will find something of interest in this book. It covers the history of Chen style taijiquan, Taiji theory including comments on how each part of your body should move etc. There are also explanations of push hands and weapon forms and Chen family legends. This book makes me want to learn mandarin (and chen style *sigh*)