Considered the mother of all Martial Arts, Taijiquan is an ancient discipline born in China and diversified into five different styles at a later stage: Chen, Yang, Wu Hao, Wu and Sun. Substantially similar, they may differ in range of motion, postures and some gestures, although its main goal – moving Qi – is the same principle for all styles.
A different Style
Taijiquan differs from other styles of Martial arts because its practice looks more a gentle exercise rather than a routine that requires physical effort. This is true to some degree, as Taijiquan is indeed a super effective practice for anybody to keep fit through moderate exercise whilst increasing internal life energy (Qi). Not to exclude the “applicative” part of Taiji quan: get mastery of one’s body for defensive purposes without the slightest effort, as this can be experienced after a diligent practice and focused discipline.
*”Taiji quan” is the correct way to write it, according to the official phonetic system Hanyu Pinyin – “Tai chi chuan” is widely spread as the English way to pronounced, although Taiji quan should be used. Discover why
