"The training exercises of Taiji, like those from all the internal martial arts traditions of China, are designed to build gong. What does it mean to built gong? Physically, the accumulation of gong refers to constant improvements in balance, coordination, agility, flexibility, sensitivity, and strength or power. Mentally and spiritually, the accumulation of gong refers to improved awareness and confidence, and constant advancements toward realizing tranquility of heart and mind. These physical, mental and spiritual improvements are the benefits and purpose of practice. The priority of accumulating gong (as opposed to martial technique or trickery) is repeatedly emphasized in many of the most famous sayings from the oral tradition of the Chinese internal martial arts."
- Yang Yang, Taijiquan: The Art of Nurturing, The Science of Power, 2005, p. 5.
Chen Taijiquan
Thank you Mike for sharing all your experience. I have studied Yang Cheng-fu form 85 for quite a while (10 years) and Wang Shu-Jin Pakua for a little while in Paris, France. Unfortunately, the teacher closed his baguaa course to very limited number of students.
ReplyDeleteI met an old chineese Liang style pakua practionner (he is 80 years old, but looks like he is 50!).
So I was wondering what is the point studying Chen style when all the twisting, fa-jin, silk-reeling ... is also included in pa-kua (at least, the liang style has!). Maybe just a stupid question and sorry for that :-(
Maccac,
ReplyDeleteIf your Bagua and Yang Tai Chi have everything you want for exercise and pleasure, then, indeed, you need not learn Chen Style Taijiquan.
Chen Style offers a wide array of weapons and hand forms. It may give you new techniques for exercises, stretching and martial techniques because of the different movements and techniques not found in Bagua. The Chen choreography is quite complex and might challenge the mind and body in new ways. Chen Style is somewhat more vigorous than Yang Style Taijiquan.
Best wishes,
Mike
Hi,
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