Below are some of the training principles the student will come across.
The 10 Essential points of Tai Chi Chuan:
- 1. Emptying the thoughts and raising the head as if suspended from above.
- 2. Hollowing the chest to raise the back.
- 3. Loosening the waist.
- 4. Distinguishing between substantial and insubstantial.
- 5. Sinking the shoulder and weighting the elbows.
- 6. Using the intention and not physical strength.
- 7. Coordination of upper and lower body.
- 8. Internal and external togetherness.
- 9. Continuity without breakage.
- 10. Seeking stillness within movement.
These are the profound methods within the Tai Chi form.
The Six Approaches of Tai Chi Chuan:
- 1. Centrifugal and centripetal forces are the primary movers in the body.
- 2. Rifling is the line of motion, Tai Chi’s “spiral” method; like a bullet shot from the barrel of a rifle.
- 3. Strength in attack and defence comes from life and agility.
- 4. Shifting the centre to generate power.
- 5. Coiling to store and uncoiling to release is the strategy and weapon.
- 6. Force towards the centre is the direction of attack.
The Thirteen Postures:
The thirteen postures are made up from the four sides and the four corners of a square, together with the five directions. This is also known as “the eight gates and five steps”.
The five directions in Tai Chi Chuan are:
- 1. Advance
- 2. Retreat
- 3. Gaze left
- 4. Gaze right
- 5. Central equilibrium
The four sides in Tai Chi Chuan are:
(The four cardinal directions linked to the four sides of the square)
- 1. Ward-Off
- 2. Roll Back
- 3. Press
- 4. Push
This is also known as the primary hands in push hands training
The four corners in Tai Chi Chuan are:
(The four cardinal directions linked to the four corners of a square)
- 1. Pull Down
- 2. Split
- 3. Elbow Stroke
- 4. Shoulder Stroke