List of tai chi forms

Tai Chi Forms are a series of movements and postures that are performed in a slow, focused manner, accompanied by deep breathing. Tai Chi, a martial art that originated in China, is practiced for both its defense training and its health benefits. The practice of Tai Chi involves a series of forms, which are sequences of movements. Each form is a combination of posture and movement, designed to improve flexibility, balance, and physical strength, as well as to reduce stress. This article provides a list of various Tai Chi forms, highlighting their significance and variations.

Yang Style

The Yang Style is one of the most popular and widely practiced Tai Chi styles in the world. It was developed by Yang Luchan in the 19th century and is characterized by broad, open movements. The Yang style is known for its gentle, flowing movements which are suitable for people of all ages.

Traditional 108 Form

The Traditional 108 Form is the most classic sequence of movements in the Yang Style. It is a long form that takes about 20-30 minutes to perform and covers a wide range of movements.

24 Form

The 24 Form, also known as the Beijing or Simplified 24 Form, is a shorter version of the traditional Yang Style. It was created in 1956 by the Chinese Sports Committee as a means to standardize Tai Chi for beginners and for international competition. This form is the most popular and widely practiced sequence worldwide.

Chen Style

The Chen Style is the oldest and the ancestor of all other Tai Chi styles. It was developed by Chen Wangting in the 17th century in Chenjiagou Village, Henan Province, China. Chen Style is characterized by its lower stances, silk-reeling energy (chan si jin), and sudden releases of power (fa jin).

Old Frame

The Old Frame (Lao Jia) is divided into two routines: the First Routine (Yilu) and the Second Routine (Erlu), also known as Cannon Fist. The Old Frame is the basis of Chen Style Tai Chi and emphasizes softness with hardness hidden inside.

New Frame

The New Frame (Xin Jia) was developed by Chen Fake, a 17th generation master of Chen Family Tai Chi. It modifies the Old Frame by adding more explicit spiral movements and is known for its complexity and martial arts applications.

Wu Style

The Wu Style of Tai Chi was developed by Wu Quanyou and his son, Wu Jianquan, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is known for its smaller frame movements, leaning postures, and a strong focus on internal development.

Wu (Hao) Style

The Wu (Hao) Style is a separate branch of Tai Chi developed by Hao Weizhen. It is known for its small, subtle movements, and emphasis on internal strength and control.

Sun Style

The Sun Style was created by Sun Lutang, who integrated elements of Xing Yi Quan and Bagua Zhang into Tai Chi. It is characterized by its lively steps, high stances, and the unique blending of the three internal martial arts. The Sun Style is particularly noted for its health benefits, especially for arthritis.

Competition Forms

In addition to traditional forms, there are competition forms designed for Tai Chi practitioners to compete in a standardized manner. These include the 42 Combined Form, which incorporates movements from Yang, Chen, Wu, and Sun styles, and the 48 Combined Form, which is a more extended version of the 42 Form.