West Norfolk Tai Chi

The Yang Style Forms

Several versions of the Yang Tai Chi form are in existence - these have arisen as newer masters have added or taken away elements in order to improve the form or make the form more suitable for the times. There are two slightly different versions of today's 'standard' Yang form:

The 108 movement 'Original' Yang Form

This is the form developed by Yang Lu Chan consisting of 108 distinct movements or 'patterns'. It was taught by Yang Lu Chan and his sons in the Imperial Court (small frame) and later by Yang Cheng Fu. This is the form that we practice at West Norfolk Tai Chi.

The 85 movement (Yang Cheng Fu) Form

Later on in the life of Yang Cheng Fu, he began to promote the use of Tai Chi to treat illness and protect health. He revised the original Yang form and removed some of the more martial aspects such as foot stamping as well as reducing repetitions that existed in the longer form. His form was expansive with an even cadence, he once said:

"Tai Chi Chuan is the art of softness containing hardness, of a needle concealed in cotton. The postures must be centered and upright, rounded and full, calm and steady, relaxed and tranquil; the movements are light, lively and curved - a completely marvelous action."