Chen Style Taijiquan
Old Frame (Lao Jia), Second Form (Er Lu), Laojia Erlu
Cannon Fist (Paocui, Pao Chui, Pao Twi)
Cannon Bashing Fist
陈氏太极拳老架
Chen T'ai Chi Ch'uan 43 Movement Hand Form

Cloud Hands Blog Chen Style Taijiquan Cloud Hands Website Old Frame First Form

Research by
Michael P. Garofalo

"No school of Chinese martial arts is as well known and popular as Taijiquan. It is suitable for both the young and the old, not only because Taijiquan possesses special features of stretching, flexing the joints, softly twining, exercising both the inside and the outside, dispelling diseases and prolonging life, but it is also the martial art that best reflects Chinese traditional philosophy. More and more people from other countries, especially those interested in Chinese culture, are beginning to practice Taijiquan. Taijiquan is becoming popular all over the world. Because of this, Taijiquan has no national boundary and is beyond the category of culture, and belongs to people everywhere."
- Fan Chun-Lei and A. Frank Shiery, Traditional Chen Style Taijiquan.

Old Frame (Lao Jia), Second Routine (Er Lu)
Cannon Fist (Paocui)
Chen T'ai Chi Ch'uan Laojia Erlu
Bibliography, Links, Resources

   A Note to Readers: The Cloud Hands webpages have been online continuously since 2001. In 2009, over 1,350,000 webpages (excluding graphics) were served to readers around the world from the websites: Cloud Hands T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Valley Spirit Qigong, Walking, Taoism, Meditation and Yoga. Since 2005, I have also provided information about Taijiquan and Qigong at my Cloud Hands Blog. Since these mind-body arts websites are very well-established and stable websites, they provide readers with a good and secure starting point for their online research into Taijiquan and Chi Kung. The Cloud Hands websites are funded entirely by Green Way Research, with volunteer efforts by Michael P. Garofalo.
    Unfortunately, as everyone knows, many other websites and webpages, documents, and videos appear and then disappear from the Internet scene. Authors do not pay to keep up their web hosting services, loose a "free hosting" option, change filenames, recode away from HTML, or decide to remove the webpages for various reasons. Consequently, links to some good webpages or videos become invalid and the files are no longer found on the Internet. You may find a some of these "dead links" to nonexistent webpages or videos cited below; and, there is no way to avoid this troublesome situation. For this reason, when you do find a good and useful webpage, be sure to save the webpage to a folder on your hard drive or server.
    I welcome your suggestions for how to improve this webpage. Your comments, ideas, contributions, and constructive criticism are encouraged. Send your suggestions to my email box.

Ancient-Respected Chen-Style Taiji Quan, Routine II of Old Frame. Demonstration and instruction by Master Chen Qing Zhou. 1 instructional DVD, 49 minutes. ISBN: 7887212545. Published by People's Sports Video Publishing House, Chinese WuShu Series. Subtitle Language Options: Chinese, English, Spanish, and French. "Born in 1933, Chen Qing Zhou became the student of Chen Zhao-Pei. After practicing and teaching for over 20 years in Liberation Cemetery, he added the New Frame of Chen Zhao Kui (Chen Fa ke's son) to his repertoire. However, on further consideration he rejected the New Frame from his teachings. Chen Qing Zhou has been head coach of the Chen Family Taijiquan Research and Training Centers as well as vice-secretary general of the Wen Xian International Annual Conference on Taijiquan. Chen Qing Zhou is a true martial artist and has made many sacrifices to preserve true Tai Chi information: hence the name Zun Gu . He has been named one of the top dozen Tai Chi players in China." From the DVD box: "The Routine II of the Old Frame, also called Cannon Hammer, has special characteristics compared with Routine I. The second routine is accurately and closely arranged, with complicated movements and considerable difficulty. The speed as well as the degrees of force that the ending parts of the movements show is different. The movements of Taiji take pull down, bend backward, elbow stroke and body stoke as the main themes and four direction hand movements as the subsidiary one."

Bibliography, Links and Resources for a Study of the Chen Taijiquan Loajia Yilu

Bibliographic Citations for Chen Taijiquan for the Cloud Hands Webpages

Cannon Cane, Traditional Tai Chi Eight Immortals Cane, Routine Two (Cannon Cane). Instruction and demonstrations by Master Jesse Tsao. Routine Two, Cannon Cane, is based on the Chen Style of Taijiquan. Instructional DVD, 61 minutes. The instruction is divided into 10 lessons. There is demonstration of the entire Cannon Cane form from both a front and a back view. Produced by Tai Chi Healthways, San Diego, 2008. Master Tsao developed this cane form himself, with Grandmaster Zhu Tiancai's support. This is a martial arts weapon routine using a standard crook neck walking cane. "This routine is full of powerful moves and explosive strikes. Detailed instruction is provided in English, with front and back views. The DVD is a good reference for personal home study, or as a resource for an instructor's teaching preparation. It will take 30 class hours to learn this form. The difficulty level is for intermediate to advanced students. This form is the answer for people looking for the martial arts aspects of Taijiquan." - Jesse Tsao. VSCL.

Cannon Fist Form. Instruction by Master Geogre Xu. Instructional videotape, VSH, NTSC, 87 minutes. China's Living Treasure Series. "Master George Xu of Shanghai teaches the second form of this system. The tape is divided into three parts: 1) the entire form, 2) sections on basic trainingexercises, and 3) the form repeated slowly three times with narration. At the end of each section, the individual section is repeated with the names of the movements. In One Hand videos grouping this is Part Three of their general Chen style videos. This is a self-contained, complete in itself tape on the Second Chen Tai Chi Form - Pao Chui or "Cannon Fist." As is typical of George Xu's work the Reeling Silk Energy here is very strong, the movements very lively. George may be one of the very few who has come to the Western world and yet increased his skill and knowlege. He is a top notch semiarian and brings great teachers to the West. His own Kung Fu is high and this Cannon Fist is typical of him." - Plum Publications

Cannon Fist Form, Chen Taijiquan, List of Movements, Movements 1-43, Old Frame, Second Form, 2 Pages

Center for Taiji Studies. Master Yang Yang. Champaign, Illinois.

ChanSiGong Blog: Chen Taijiquan

Chenjiagou Taijiquan GB

Cheng Jin Cai, Chen Style Taiji

Chen: Living Taijiquan in the Classical Style. By Master Jan Silberstorff. Jessica Kingsley Publications, 1st Edition, June, 2009. 320 pages. ISBN: 1848190212. "Chen style Taijiquan is the oldest of the five main Taijiquan styles. In this book, Master Jan Silberstorff, a leading Chen practitioner, shares his expertise and insights. He explains the background to Taijiquan, and its key principles, and gives the reader a true insight into the Chen system. Master Silberstorff sets this within the historical context of Taijiquan in China, its country of origin, and explains the martial, health and spiritual aspects of traditional Chen Taijiquan. He discusses the different Chen forms and the importance of each, as well as the place of competition and the effect on participants. The book also contains the complete sequences for both the empty hand and weapon forms. This accessible and comprehensive guide to Chen style Taijiquan is ideal for beginners and will also be useful to advanced practitioners wanting to deepen their practice." VSCL.

Chen's Tai Chi Old Frame One and Two. By Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. Translated by Jack Yan. White Bench Publications, Toronto, Canada, 2011. 396 pages. Review, 2011. VSCL. The Cannon Fist form is covered on pages 321-394.

Chen Style Old Form Route 2. By Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. Instructional DVDs. 2 DVDs. "Chen Zhenglei teaches the Chen Style Old form, Route 2. There is a brief introductory section in Chinese only, but teaching is in Chinese with English and Chinese subtitles. He teachers principles as well as basic skills for hands, feet and movements. The 42 movements are taught with detail, step-by-step with multiple repetitions and different camera angles. There are multiple demonstrations in addition to the teaching." - Tai Chi Publications, Wayfarer Catalog, 2 DVDs, #7651, $39.99.

Chen Style Tai Chi. Master Cheng Jincai.

Chen Style Tai Chi Cannon Fist. Instruction and demonstration by Sifu Jiang Jianye. Two instructional DVDs: Cannon Fist, Part 1 = 120 minutes; Cannon Fist, Part 2: 120 minutes. Capitol District TaiChi and Kung Fu Association. "Chen style Tai Chi Chuan originated in Chen Village in Henan Province. Chen emphasis is on silk reeling movements, which improve joint rotation to help prevent arthritis and quickly increase energy. This video shows 2nd routine Cannon fist created by Chen Zheng Lei (19th generation Chen family). This video has a runtime of 120 minutes." - Part I

Chen Style Tai Chi Chuan - Old Frame, First Routine, Laojia Yilu: Bibliography, Links, Resources, Notes, List or Movements

Chen Style Tai Chi Chuan: Bibliography and Links By Mike Garofalo.

Chen Style Tai Chi Chuan - Wikipedia

Chen Style Taijiquan. Written and compiled by Feng Zhiqiang and Feng Dabiao. Photographs of Feng Zhiqiang, Zhang Chundong, and Chen Zwowang. Compiled by Zhaohua Publishing House. Hong Kong, Hai Feng Publishing Co. and Zhaohua Publishing House, 1984. 227 pages. ISBN: 9622380166. Overview, profiles of teachers, review of Old Frame First Form and Second Form, the 38 movement form, and a very informative review of attack and defense using Chen style movements. Includes many black and white photographs. One of the first books available in English on the Chen Style of Taijiquan. The Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu, Cannon Fist Form, is discussed in this book on pages 84-140.

The Chen Style Taijiquan for Life Enhancement. Written by Chen Zhenglei and translated by Xu Hailing. Zhongzhou Classic Publishing House, Zhengzhou, China, 2002. Text in English and Chinese. ISBN: 7534821819. 149 pages. "Describes the principles of Chen style for life enhancement, basic training, Taiji Skills for Preserving Energy and The 18 Forms of the Chen Style. Many photos of Chen Zhenglei doing Exercises and forms. Chen Zhenglei is one of the top Chen stylists in China. Paperback.149 pp. 5 1/2' by 8'. $19.00." - Wayfarer Publications "It covers the content of the health exercise silk reeling video, and is a useful reference, giving more detail, especially on theory." - Wushu Center. VSCL

Chen Style Taijiquan Laojia Erlu. By Master Ren Guangyi. Instructional DVD, 50 minutes. TC Media, 2007. ASIN: B001SAOTUI.

Chen Style Taijiquan, Old Frame First Form, Lao Jia Yi Lu. By Michael P. Garofalo. A detailed bibliography of books, media, and articles. Extensive selection of Internet links. List of movement names in English, Chinese characters, Chinese Pinyin, French, German, and Spanish; and citations for sources of the movement names. Detailed list of DVDs and videos available online. A list of performance times of this form by many masters. Breakdown by sections of the form, with separate lists for each section. General information, history, facts, information, pointers, and quotations.

Chen Style Taiji Quan Old Frame I. Explained and demonstrated by Master Chen Zhenglei. DVD Video, 2 DVDs, color, 188 minutes, 2005. Includes narration in simple Chinese, traditional Chinese, and English. The traditional 74 movement form in 6 parts. The DVD includes detailed coaching by Master Chen Zenglei on every movement in the form, and lectures on basic movements, requirements of the form, basic techniques, a demonstration of the entire form, and a demonstration of 18 essential forms. Translated by Xu Hailiang. The English narration is very good. Excellent photography. Distributed by Guangxhou Beauty Culture Communication Co.. ISRC: CN-M23-96-302-00/V.G8. Distributor: China Books. VCD productions. An excellent resources for learning the Laojia Yilu. Use this DVD in conjunction with Chen Zenglei's book "Chen Style Taijiquan, Sword and Broadsword." VCD Format: "The Chen style taiji quan falls into two categories - the old and new frames. The old frame was created by Chen Wangting himself. It had five routines which were also known as the 13-move boxing. Chen Wangting also developed a long-style boxing routine of 108 moves and a cannon boxing routine. It was then handed down to Chen Changxing and Chen Youben, boxers in the Chenjia Valley who were all proficient at the old frame. The present-day Chen style boxing boasts of the old routine, the cannon routine and the new routine. The Chen style taiji boxing is the oldest form, all the other styles of taiji quan having derived from it either directly or indirectly." VCD Format. Full demonstration, 13:46 minutes, on Tape 2, Part V., Essential 18 Movement Chen Style Boxing, Routine 1. Tape 1 is in the Chinese language, with few English subtitles, so it has little value to English speakers; no Menu. VSCL.

Chen Style Taiji Quan Old Frame II, Laojia Erlu, Laojia Pao Chui 41 Shi. Instructional DVD by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. 83 minutes. Published by the Chinese Sport Council Publishing House. The soundtrack is selectable between English or Chinese. The subtitles are selectable between English and Chinese. "Chen-style Taiji Quan Old Frame II also called Cannon Fist or Pao Chui, stresses hardness with softness hiding in. While practicing, you should complete them mainly with force and foot hitting the ground to release energy, also in quick succession such movements as stamping, dodging away or jumping up. Your play should be full of noble aspiration and power. Exercise Requirement: let your hand lead your body, keep your footsteps flexible and steady, carry yourself with confidence, take 'Cai,Lie, Zhou, Kao' as the main movements and 'Ben, Yuan, Ji, An' as subsidiary, which can really show the features of Old Frame II in quickness, hardness and fierceness."

Chen Style Taijiquan Practical Method. Volume One: Theory. By Grandmaster Hong Junsheng. Translated into English by Chen Zhonghua. "This is a long waited book. The author of the book, grandmaster Hong Junsheng studied from grandmaster Chen Fake for 15 years and was the only disciple who lived with the grandmaster from time to time. Hong spent his entire life practicing and writing this book on the Chen Style Taijiquan. Many of his views, opinions and experiences are rare, authentic and traditional. There simply is not another master who could compare. His disciple Chen Zhonghua did an excellent job of translating this book. An English teacher and translator in Canada by profession, Chen rendered this book in both loyalty to the original and in readability for the Western readers." - Taiji Medicine Books

Chen Style Taijiquan: Sword and Broadsword. By Chen Zhenglei. Translated by Zhang XinHu, Chen Bin, Xu Hailiang, and Gregory Bissell. Tai Chi Centre, 2003. 367 pages. ISBN: 7534823218. This book is in English. Detailed descriptions, with photographs, of the first form, sword form and broadsword form. An excellent companion to Chen Zhenglei's instructional DVDs, with English narration. Review by Herbert O. Rich: "This is the first translated volume of Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei's three-volume set entitled "A Compendium of Taiji Boxing and Weapons". Chen Zhenglei is famed as a 19th generation Grandmaster of traditional Chen Style Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan). He is known to Taijiquan enthusiasts the world over for his skill and ability in teaching. This book is a detailed instruction manual for the basic set (or form) of the Laojia ("old frame") Chen style, as well as the single broadsword and straight sword forms. Profusely illustrated, it describes basic theory, physical requirements, postural movements, Qi circulation, and self defense applications for each of the postures of the form." [Chen Zenglei 2003] VSCL.

Chen Style Taijiquan: The Source of Taiji Boxing. By Davidine Siaw-Voon Sim and David Gaffney. Berkeley, CA, North Atlantic Books, 2002. Index, charts, 224 pages. ISBN: 1556433778. Provides an excellent introduction to Chen style Taijiquan history and legends, outlines the major forms, discusses the philosophy and foundations of the art, and gives very good information on training methods, push hands, and weapons. Very well written, highly informative, and a unique contribution to the field. Essential reading for all learning the Chen style of Tai Chi Chuan. The Hand Forms (Taolu) are described on pp. 110-143. [Sim & Gaffney 2002] VSCL.

Chen Style Taijiquan Videotapes. Distributed by Wayfarer Publications. Useful annotations about videotapes for sale. Videotapes featuring: Chen Zhonghua, Chen Zhenglei, Cheng Jin Cai, Jiang Jian-ye, Paul Lam, Wang Lijun, Chen Peishan, Peter Wu, Ren Guang Yi, George Xu.

Chen Style Taijiquan with Sifu Mark Chen

Chen Tai Chi Chuan World on Facebook

Chen Tai Chi Old Frame Cannon Fist. Demonstration and instruction by Master Jesse Tsao. 1 instructional DVD or VHS videotape, 60 minutes. This is a the 43 movement version of the Cannon Fist as per Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. Instruction is provided in 9 lessons by Master Tsao. All instruction is in the English language. Includes a good Menu system on the DVD that works. The instruction is a bit rushed and lacks the good detailed instruction found on other DVDs by Master Tsao that I own. Master Tsao speaks as he moves, and the audio is low but clear. The background is an indoor scene. A back view summary of each lesson is provided. "This is a popular routine for internal martial artists. It is characterized by spiral energy and combat techniques expressing numerous power hits (fajin). Cannon Fist is also called Chen Style Routine Two. Its firecracker power is based on the accumulated energy from Routine One's soft silk reeling. In this instructional DVD, Master Jesse Tsao presents the routine in its classic form, in English with detailed talk and self-defense applications, as well as front and back view demos. He credits this new DVD on the teachings from Grandmasters Chen Zhenglei and Zhu Tiancai. It is a good reference for home study, or a resource for instructor's teaching preparation. Suggest 30 class hours. (Difficulty: Intermediate through Advanced Levels)"- TaiChi Healthways. Cost: $34.95. VSCL.

Chen Xiaoxing's Pao Cui Insights. By David Gaffney. Tai Chi Magazine, 2005.

Chinese Internal Arts Center. St. Louis, Missouri.

Chinese language books on Chen Taijiquan

Chinese Martial Arts Pages. By Jarek Szymanski. China from the Inside.

Cloud Hands Blog: Chen Taijiquan Notes. By Michael P. Garofalo.

Cloud Hands Blog: Mind/Body Movement Arts Blog. By Michael P. Garofalo.

Cloud Hands Blog: Notes on the Chen Taijiquan Cannon Fist Form. By Michael P. Garofalo.

The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan: A Comprehensive Guide to the Principles and Practice. By Wong Kiew Kit. Shaftesbury, Dorset, Element, 1996. Index, bibliography, 316 pages. ISBN: 1852307927. (Wong 1996) VSCL.

Conversation with Chen Zeng-Lei. Questions by Herb Rich.

The Dao of Taijiquan: Way to Rejuvenation. By Tsung Hwa Jou (1917-1998). Charles E. Tuttle, 1980. 3rd Edition, 1983. 233 pages. ISBN: 0804813574. An outstanding textbook on Tai Chi Chuan. All styles are introduced and explained. A very informative introduction to the philosophy and practices of Tai Chi. Chen Taijiquan is covered on pp. 11-43. Master Jou provides instructions on tracing the Tai Chi symbol, Chan-Ssu Chin, on pp. 148-159. VSCL. Master Jou's book was the first English language textbook about Taijiquan, and greatly influenced thousands of American Taiji students.

The Essence of Taijiquan: Essential Guide to Chen Taiji. By David Gaffney and Davidine Siaw-Voon Sim. 2010. Published by Blurb.com, Paperback, $22.00. 280 pages. Review.

Five Levels of Skill in Chen Taijiquan. By Chen Xiao Wang, translated by Tan Lee-Peng.

Garofalo, Michael P., M.S. Instructor at Valley Spirit Taijiquan. Mike has been publishing on the Internet with Green Way Research since 1992. Mike began his practice of Taijiquan and Qigong in 1986. He has taught Taijiquan and Qigong since 2000; and Yoga since 2004. He teaches at the Valley Spirit Taijiquan Center and at the Tehama Family Fitness Center, both in Red Bluff, California. He teaches Yang Style Taijiquan and various styles of Qigong and Yoga. His many web publications (e.g., The Spirit of Gardening, Cloud Hands, Months, etc.) are widely cited and rank high in search engines, and he serves up over 3,000,000 webpages (excluding graphics) each year. He is currently studying Chen Style of Taijiquan. He is an avid and knowledgeable gardener, and lives in a rural area in Northern California. He is a semi-retired library administrator, grant writer, webmaster, and technology manager. You can contact Mike by email or by cell phone at 530-200-3546.

Glossary for Chen Taijiquan

The Hidden Song Taizu Chang Quan Roots of Chen Taiji. By Salvatore Canzonieri. Shaolin Kung Fu Magazine, January/February, 2007, Article #30.

Internal Kung Fu Research Association

"The Illustrated Canon of Chen Family Taijiquan." By Chen Xin. English Version, translated by Alex Goldstein. Maroubra, Australia, INBI Matrix Pty Ltd, 2007. ISBN: 5986870085. Shanghai Bookstore, 1986, in Chinese. First published in Chinese in 1932. Sometimes referred to as the "Bible of Chen Taijiquan." "The Illustrated Canon of Chen Taijiquan" is widely regarded as the first ever and most authoritative written record of Chen family Taijiquan techniques and philosophies. Written over 12 years from 1908 to 1919 in four volumes, this comprehensive compendium reveals valuable information on the applications of Taiji postures, practice guidelines for beginners and even secrets from generations of Chen family practitioners." "Provided a detailed breakdown of the Old Frame first series from and the purpose of its various movements, dividing the form into thirteen distinct sections." (Sim & Gaffney 2002). Sample of text from all 4 volumes. Written by Chen Xin (Chen Pin San), Wen County, Henan Province. "At this time mention must also be made of the first in-depth book ever written on Chen style. It was written by a 16th generation family member Chen Xin 陳鑫 (Ch’en Hsin, 1849-1929) called "Taijiquan Illustrated" 太極拳圖說 and proved very popular but was not actually published until 1932, well after Chen Xin's death." - Wikipedia Vendor @ $165

List of Movements, Movements 1-43, Chen Taijiquan, Cannon Fist (Paocui), Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu, English & Romanized Chinese, 2 Pages, PDF Prepared by Mike Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Red Bluff, California, 2011.

List of Movements, Movements 1-43, Chen Taijiquan, Cannon Fist (Paocui), Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu, English Only, 1 page, PDF format. Prepared by Mike Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Red Bluff, California, 2011.

List of Movements of Old Frame, Second Form, Cannon Fist Prepared by Tai Chi Way

List of Movements of Old Frame, Second Form, Cannon Fist Prepared by Yangshuo TaiChi School

List of Movements of Old Frame, Second Form, Cannon Fist Prepared by Rochester Chen Style Taijiquan

List of Movements of Old Frame, Second Form, Cannon Fist Prepared by Chenjiagou Taijiquan USA Chicago, Grandmaster Chen Xiao Wang from Chen Village, China.

Lively Chen Style Taijiquan in New Zealand Malisa and Bern Williams.

Los Angeles Chen Style Taijiquan Association Master Qichen Guo.

National Academy of Kung Fu Wushu and Qi Gong Short essays on topics of interest to Chen Taiji players.

New Definitions of the 8 Basic Techniques. By Zhenbo Sun. T'ai Chi: The International Magazine of Tai Chi Chuan: Vol. 31, No. 5, October, 2007, pp. 45 - 48. Discussion of the 8 energies (Peng, Lu, Ji, An, Cai, Lie, Zhou, Kao, Ji) as found in King Kong Pounds Mortar #2 movement of Chen Taijiquan Old Frame First Routine.

Old Frame Chen Family Taijiquan. By Mark Chen. Berkeley, California, North Atlantic Books, 2004. Appendices, notes, bibliography, 246 pages. ISBN: 155643488X. This book provides excellent information on learning the Old Frame First Form. Insightful introduction to Chen Taijiquan. The form presented in this book is in the lineage of Chen Qing Zhou, nineteenth-generation successor and disciple of Zehn Zhao Pei. [Mark Chen 2004] Chen Qing Zhou has produced a complete set of intructional DVDs for all of the hand and weapons forms in the Chen Style of Taijiquan. The detailed description by Mark Chen of the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame, First Form, with accompanying photographs is found on pages 91-180. VSCL.

Online Videos - Chen Style T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Cannon Fist Form

The Origins of Tai Chi: The Chen Camp Literati Tradition, Xiansheng Bing F. YeYoung

Qigong (Chi Kung)

Ren GuangYi Chen Taijiquan Official Website

Silk Reeling Exercises

Standard Simplified Taijiquan 24 Form. Yang Style, 24 movements, created in 1956. Bibliography, links, resources; list of the 24 movement names in English, Chinese, French, German and Spanish, with citations for movement names; detailed descriptions of each movement with line illustrations; quotes, notes, performance times, online videos, sections for learning, and tips for learning. Peking (Bejing) orthodox short 24 form T'ai Chi Ch'uan. Research by Michael P. Garofalo. 145Kb HTML file. Published by Green Way Research, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Red Bluff, California: Webpage URL: http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/short.htm.

Sung (Relaxed, Open, Centered, Calm) in Taijiquan

Il Taccuino Del Taiji Quan Stile Chen

Tai Chi for Health, Short Taijiquan Form, 18 Movements, by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei: Bibliography, Instructions, List, Commentary, Links, Resources. By Mike Garofalo.

Tai Chi History by Michael Smith

Taiji.quest.ion Blog

Taijiquan: The Art of Nurturing, The Science of Power. By Yang Yang with Scott A. Grubish. Champaign, Illinois, Zhenwu Publications, Center for Taiji Studies, 2005. Bibliography, index, notes, glossary, 219 pages. ISBN: 0974099007. Emphasis upon the theory and methods of Taijiquan, exercise science, and health benefits. VSCL.

Talking Chen Taijiquan with David Gaffney

Taoism and the Philosophy of Tai Chi Chuan

The Tao of Tai-Chi Chuan: Way to Rejuvenation. By Jou, Tsung Hwa. Edited by Shoshana Shapiro. Warwick, New York, Tai Chi Foundation, 1980. 263 pages. First Edition. MGC. ISBN: 0804813574. An excellent comprehensive textbook. A Third Edition is now available. Master Jou was very knowledgeable about Chen Taijiquan, and recommended that you learn Chen Taijiquan first. A significant portion of this book is about the Chen Taijiquan. The First and Second Form movements are listed and illustrated on pp. 11-43. Silk Reeling is covered on pp. 148-158. This was a landmark book - the first comprehensive textbook on Taijiquan in the English language. Master Jou was a very influential teacher and workshop organizer on the East Coast of the USA. [Jou Tsung Hwa 1980]

Traditional Chen Taiji with Master Chin King-Loon (Loren)

Tri Star Taiji with Master Li Rong

Tsao, Jesse. Tai-Chi Healthways, San Diego, California. Master Tsao has produced many excellent instructional DVDs in the English language.

Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Red Bluff, California

VSCL = Valley Spirit Center Library, Red Bluff, California

Wayfarer Publications Catalog: Chen Style Taijiquan Videotapes. Distributed by Wayfarer Publications. Useful annotations about videotapes for sale. Videotapes featuring: Chen Zhonghua, Chen Zhenglei, Cheng Jin Cai, Jiang Jian-ye, Paul Lam, Wang Lijun, Chen Peishan, Peter Wu, Ren Guang Yi, George Xu.

Wong, Tony Chen Style Taiji, San Francisco Bay Area. Master Wong Wai Yi (Tony), B.A., M.S.. Master Wong's lineage is from Master Zhang Xuexin and Master Chen Qingzhou. Master Wong is a cofounder of the National Neigong Research Society, and the American Chen Taiji Society.

World of Taijiquan. Master Zhu Tian Cai.

Xu, George. Master of Chen Style, qigong, and weapons forms. San Francisco, CA. He leads workshops, retreats, and produces high quality videotapes. Susan Matthews/George Xu

Zhu Tian Cai's Chen Style Tai Chi Chuan Instructional DVDs.

Online Videos

Chen Taijiquan - Laojia Erlu (Pao Chui). Performance by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. UTube, 4:30 minutes.

Chen Taijiquan - Laojia Erlu (Cannon Fist). Performance by Master Chen Bing. UTube, 3:00 minutes.

Chen Taijiquan Cannon Fist. Performance by Jonathan Savell of Shaolin Temple Kung Fu School, Lomita, CA. UTube, 5:09 minutes.

Chen Taijiquan Cannon Fist. Selection of UTube videos of performances.

Chen Taijiquan Cannot Fist (UTube Search)

Chen Taijiquan Laojia Erlu (UTube Search)

Return to Main Index

Chen Wangting, 1600-1680

List of Movements
Chen Taijiquan, Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu
Cannon Fist (Paocui)
Movements 1-43

List of Movements, Movements 1-74, Old Frame, First Form, Laojia Yilu, 2 Pages

1. Opening Movement of Taijiquan (Taiji Qi Shi)

Preparing Form (Taiji Qi Shi) [Sim & Gaffney 2002]
Opening Movement [Mark Chen 2004]
Starting Posture (Taiji Qi Shi)    [Chen Zhenglei 2011]
Opening Form [Jesse Tsao 2010]
Beginning of Tai-Chi    [Jou Tsung Hwa 1980]
Preparing Form [Zhaohua 1984]
Preparing Stance (Yu Bei Shi)
Maintien Commençant de Taijiquan [French]
Anfangenlage von Taijiquan [German]
Postura que comienza de Taijiquan [Spanish]
预备式 : Yu Bei Shi [Chinese Characters & Pinyin]

Movement #1, Section A Description, illustrations, notes, comments.

2. Buddha's Warrior Pounds the Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui)

Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui) [Sim & Gaffney]
Diamond King Pounds Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui) [Mark Chen]
Buddha's Warrior Pounds Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui) [Chen Zhenglei 2011]
Warrior Pounding Mortar [Jesse Tsao]
King-Kong Nailed Fist [Jou Tsung Hwa]
Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds with Pestle (Jin-gang Dao Dui) [Chen Xin 1932, 2007]
Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar [Zhaohua]
Martèlement du Mortier
Zerstoßen des Mörsers
Golpear el Mortero
金刚捣碓 : Jin Gang Dao Dui, Jin Gong Dao Zhui

Movement #2, Section A Description, illustrations, notes, comments.

3. Lazily Tying One's Coat (Lan Zha Yi)

Lazily Tying Coat (Lan Zha Yi) [Sim & Gaffney]
Lazily Tucking Clothes (Lan Zha Yi) [Mark Chen]
Lazy About Tucking the Robe (Lan Zha Yi) [Chen Zhenglei]
Lazily Tying Coat [Jesse Tsao]
Holding One Lap Pull of the Robe (Lan Zha Yi) [Chen Xin]
Lazy About Tying Coat [Zhaohua]
Attacher Paresseux Son Manteau
Irgendjemandes Mantel Faul Binden
Perezoso Atar Su Capa
懒扎衣 : Lan Zha Yi

Movement #3, Section A Description, illustrations, notes, comments.

4. Six Sealing and Four Closing (Liu Feng Si Bi)

Six Sealing and Four Closing (Liu Feng Si Bi) [Sim & Gaffney]
Six Sealing, Four Closing (Liu Feng Si Bi) [Mark Chen]
Six Sealing and Four Closing (Liu Feng Si Bi) [Chen Zhenglei]
Six Seals and Four Closings [Jesse Tsao]
40% Open and 60% Closed [Jou Tsung Hwa]
Six Sealing and Four Closing [Zhaohua]
Six Scellant et Fermeture Quatre
Sechs Versiegelnd und Vier Schließend
Seises que Sellan y Cuatro que se Cierran
六封四闭 : Liu Feng Si Bi

Movement #4, Section A Description, illustrations, notes, comments.

5. Single Whip (Dan Bian)

Single Whip (Dan Bian) [Sim & Gaffney]
Single Whip (Dan Bian) [Mark Chen]
Single Whip (Dan Bian)    [Chen Zhenglei]
Single Whip [Jesse Tsao]
Single Whip [Jou Tsung Hwa]
Single Whip (Dan Bian) [Chen Xin]
Single Whip [Zhaohua]
Choisissez Le Fouet
Single Peitsche
Escoja El Azote
单鞭 : Dan Bian , Tan Pien

Movement #5, Section A Description, illustrations, notes, comments.

6. Jump, Turn, and Protect the Heart (Hu Xin Quan)

Protecting the Heart (Hu Xing Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
Protect the Heart Punch [Mark Chen]
Leap with Protecting the Heart [Chen Zhenglei]
Jump, Turn and Protect the Heart [Jesse Tsao]

Movement #6, Section A Description, illustrations, notes, comments.

7. Diagonal Stepping (Xie Xing)

Walk Obliquely (Xie Xing) [Sim & Gaffney]
Oblique Posture (Xie Xing) [Mark Chen]
Diagonal Step [Chen Zhenglei]
Diagonal Form [Jesse Tsao]
Kick Forward and Twist Step [Jou Tsung Hwa]
Walking Obliquely and Twist Step on Both Sides [Zhaohua]
Marche Inclinée
Schräg Gelegenes Gehen
El Caminar Inclinado
斜行 : Xie Xing

8. Turn Around and Buddha's Warrior Pounds the Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui)

Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui) [Sim & Gaffney]
Turn Around, Diamond King Pounds Mortar [Mark Chen]
Turn Around with Buddha's Warrior Pounds Mortar [Chen Zhenglei]
Turn and Warrior Pounding Mortar [Jesse Tsao]
King-Kong Nailed Fist [Jou Tsung Hwa]
Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds with Pestle (Jin-gang Dao Dui) [Chen Xin 1932, 2007]
Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar [Zhaohua]
Martèlement du Mortier
Zerstoßen des Mörsers
Golpear el Mortero
金刚捣碓 : Jin Gang Dao Dui, Jin Gong Dao Zhui

9. Leaning Body Punch (Pie Sen Quan)

Flinging Body (Pie Sen Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
Angled Body Fist [Mark Chen]
Leaning Body Punch [Chen Zhenglei]
Fists Draping Over Body [Jesse Tsao]

10. Strike the Groin (Zhi Dang Chui)

Punch to Crotch (Zhi Dang Chui) [Sim & Gaffney]
Groin Strike [Mark Chen]
Strike the Groin [Chen Zhenglei]
Punch to Groin [Jesse Tsao]

11. Chopping Hands (Zhan Shou)

Cutting Hands (Zhan Shou) [Sim and Gaffney]
Chop Hand [Mark Chen]
Chop Hand [Chen Zhenglei]
Chopping Hands [Jesse Tsao]

12. Overturn the Flowers and Whip the Sleeves (Fan Shen Wu Xiu)

Turn Flowers Out and Brandish Sleeves (Fan Shen Wu Xiu) [Sim and Gaffney]
Overturn Flower and Flick Sleeves [Mark Chen]
Dance with the Sleeves [Chen Zhenglei]
Slamming Palms and Whipping Sleeves [Jesse Tsao]

13. Cover Hand and Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan)

Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
Covered Hand Punch [Mark Chen]
Covering Hand Punch [Chen Zhenglei]
Cover Hand and Punch [Jesse Tsao]

14. Turn with Elbow Strike (Yao Lan Zhou)

Move and Hinder with Elbow (Yao Lan Zhou) [Sim & Gaffney]
Elbow Intercepts at Waist [Mark Chen]
Turn Around with Cross Elbow Strike [Chen Zhenglei]
Turn with Elbow Strike [Jesse Tsao]

15. Big Cloud Hands and Small Cloud Hands (Da Yun Shou Xiao Yun Shou)

Big Cloud Hands and Small Cloud Hands (Da Yun Shou Xiao Yun Shou) [Sim & Gaffney]
Big Arm Technique and Small Arm Technique [Mark Chen]
Upper and Lower Arm Strikes [Chen Zhenglei]
Wave Hands [Jesse Tsao]

16. Jade Lady Works the Shuttles (Yu Nu Quan Shou)

Jade Girl Works Shuttles (Yu Nu Quan Shou) [Sim & Gaffney]
Jade Maiden Works Shuttles [Mark Chen]
Fair Lady Works with Shuttles [Chen Zhenglei]
Fair Lady Shuttle Push [Jesse Tsao]

17. Turn and Ride the Dragon (Dao Qi Lu)

Ride Animal in the Reverse Direction (Dao Qi Lu) [Sim & Gaffney]
Turn and Ride the Dragon [Mark Chen]
Ride on the Dragon Backward [Chen Zhenglei 2011]
Riding on Dragon [Jesse Tsao]

18. Cover Hand and Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan)

Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
Covered Hand Punch [Mark Chen]
Covering Hand Punch [Chen Zhenglei]
Turn Body, Cover Hand and Punch [Jesse Tsao]

19. Exploding Firecrackers (Guo Bian)

Wrap Crackers (Guo Bian) [Sim & Gaffney]
Wrapped Firecracker [Mark Chen]
Wrapping Punches [Chen Zhenglei]
Wrapped Firecrackers [Jesse Tsao]

20. Beast's Head Pose (Shou Tou Shi)

Beast's Head Pose (Shou Tou Shi) [Sim & Gaffney]
Beast Head Posture [Mark Chen]
Beast Head Posture [Chen Zhenglei]
Beast Head Pose [Jesse Tsao]

21. Splitting Pose (Pia Jia Zi)

Splitting Pose (Pia Jia Zi) [Sim & Gaffney]
Expansive Pose [Mark Chen]
Chopping Posture [Chen Zhenglei]
Split Hit [Jesse Tsao]

22. Overturn the Flowers and Whip the Sleeves (Fan Shen Wu Xiu)

Turn Flowers Out and Brandish Sleeves (Fan Shen Wu Xiu) [Sim and Gaffney]

23. Cover Hand and Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan)

Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
Covered Hand Punch [Mark Chen]
Covering Hand Punch [Chen Zhenglei]
Cover Hand and Punch [Jesse Tsao]

24. Tame the Tiger (Fu Hu)

Tame Tiger (Fu Hu) [Sim & Gaffney]
Tame the Tiger [Mark Chen]
Tame the Tiger [Chen Zhenglei]
Taming Tiger [Jesse Tsao]

25. Strike the Eyebrows (Muo Mei Hong)

Rubbing Eyebrow Thrust (Muo Mei Hong) [Sim & Gaffney]
Wipe Brow [Mark Chen]
Brush the Eye Brows [Chen Zhenglei]
Striking Eyebrows [Jesse Tsao]

26. Yellow Dragon Stirs the Water Three Times (Huang Long San Jiao Shui)

Yellow Dragon Stirs Water Three Times (Huang Long San Jiao Shui) [Sim & Gaffney]
Yellow Dragon Stirs Water Three Times [Mark Chen]
Yellow Dragon Stirs Up Water [Chen Zhenglei]
Yellow Dragon Stirs Water [Jesse Tsao]

27. Dash Leftward (Zuo Chong)

Dash Leftward (Zuo Chong) [Sim & Gaffney]
Left Rush [Mark Chen]
Dash to the Left [Chen Zhenglei]
Left Side Kick [Jesse Tsao]

28. Dash Rightward (You Chong)

Dash Rightward (You Chong) [Sim & Gaffney]
Right Rush [Mark Chen]
Dash to the Right [Chen Zhenglei]
Right Side Kick [Jesse Tsao]

29. Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan)

Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
Covered Hand Punch [Mark Chen]
Covering Hands Punch [Chen Zhenglei]
Cover Hand and Punch [Jesse Tsao]

30. Sweeping Leg (Shao Dang Tui)

Sweeping Leg (Shao Dang Tui) [Sim & Gaffney]
Sweeping the Hall [Mark Chen]
Sweep Kick [Chen Zhenglei]

31. Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan)

Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
Covered Hand Punch [Mark Chen]
Covering Hand Punch [Chen Zhenglei]

32. Linking Cannons (Quan Pao Quan)

Linking Cannons (Quan Pao Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
All Cannons Pound [Mark Chen]
Pound and Split [Chen Zhenglei]

33. Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan)

Hidden Thrust Punch (Yan Shou Hong Quan) [Sim & Gaffney]
Covered Hand Punch [Mark Chen]
Left and Right Continuous Strikes [Chen Zhenglei]

34. Pound Crossed Wrists (Dao Cha)

Pound Crossed Fists (Dao Cha) [Sim & Gaffney]
Strike Groin, Strike Heart [Mark Chen]
Turn Around with Cannon Fist [Chen Zhenglei]

35. Attack Twice with Left and Right Forearms (Zuo You Erh Hong)

Attack Twice with Left and Right Forearms (Zuo You Erh Hong) [Sim & Gaffney]
Left Head-Level Strike, Right Head-Level Strike [Mark Chen]
Switch Position with Cannon Fist [Chen Zhenglei]

36. Turing Head Cannon (Hui Tou Dan Men Pao)

Turning Head Cannon (Hui Dou Dan Men Pao) [Sim & Gaffney]
Turn Around, Head-on Cannon [Mark Chen]
Cross Elbow Strike [Chen Zhenglei]

37. Taiji Cannons (Taiji Pao)

Taiji Cannons (Taiji Pao) [Chen Zhenglei]
Change Position, Large Cannon [Mark Chen]
Straight Elbow Strike [Chen Zhenglei]

38. Move and Hinder with Elbow (Yao Lan Zhou)

Move and Hinder with Elbow (Yao Lan Zhou) [Sim & Gaffney]
Elbow Intercepts at Waist [Mark Chen]
Cross Elbow Strike [Chen Zhenglei]

39. Smooth Elbow (Shun Lan Zhou)

Smooth Elbow (Shun Lan Zhou) [Sim & Gaffney]
Pursue with Elbow [Mark Chen]
Straight Elbow Strike [Chen Zhenglei]

40. The Cannon Out of the Bosom (Wuo Di Pao)

The Cannon Out of the Bosom (Wuo Di Pao) [Sim & Gaffney]
Deep Cannon [Mark Chen]
Cannon Into the Nest [Chen Zhenglei]

41. Go Straight into the Well (Hui Tou Jing Lan Zhi Ru)

Go Straight into the Well (Hui Tou Jing Lan Zhi Ru) [Sim & Gaffney]
Turn Around, Short Issue
Turn Around and Drop the Pulley Rope into the Well [Chen Zhenglei]

42. Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds the Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui)

Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui) [Sim & Gaffney]
Buddha's Warrior Pounds Mortar #40 [Chen Zhenglei]
Diamond King Pounds Mortar (Jin Gang Dao Dui) [Mark Chen]
King-Kong Nailed Fist [Jou Tsung Hwa]
Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds with Pestle (Jin-gang Dao Dui) [Chen Xin 1932, 2007]
Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar [Zhaohua]
Martèlement du Mortier
Zerstoßen des Mörsers
Golpear el Mortero
金刚捣碓 : Jin Gang Dao Dui, Jin Gong Dao Zhui

43. Closing Movement of Taijiquan (Taiji Shou Shi)

Closing Posture #43 [Chen Zhenglei]
Closing Movement (Shou Shi) [Mark Chen]
Conclusion of Tai-Chi [Jou Tsung Hwa]
Closing Form (Taiji Shou Si) [Sim & Gaffney]
Closing Form [Zhaohua]
收式 : Shou Shi

Sources for Movement Names
Chen Style Taijiquan
Cannon Fist, Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu

Sim & Gaffney 2002 Chen Style Taijiquan: The Source of Taiji Boxing. By Davidine Siaw-Voon Sim and David Gaffney. Berkeley, California, North Atlantic Books, 2002. List of Cannon Fist on pp. 130-131. This list of the Cannon Fist Form has 43 named movements.

Mark Chen 2004 Old Frame Chen Family Taijiquan. By Mark Chen. Berkeley, California, North Atlantic Books, 2004. Mark Chen has studied extensively with Grandmaster Chen Qing Zhou. This list of the Cannon Fist Form has 42 named movements.

Chen Zhenglei 2011 Chen's Tai Chi Old Frame One and Two. By Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. Translated by Jack Yan. White Bench Publications, Toronto, Canada, 2011. 396 pages. Review, 2011. VSCL. The Cannon Fist form is covered on pages 321-394. This list of the Cannon Fist Form has 41 named movements.

Jesse Tsao 2010 Chen Tai Chi Old Frame Cannon Fist. Instructional DVD by Master Jesse Tsao. He teaches 41 poses in 9 Lessons. This list of the Cannon Fist Form has 41 named movements.

Feng Zhiqiang 1984 Chen Style Taijiquan. Written and compiled by Feng Zhiqiang and Feng Dabiao. Photographs of Feng Zhiqiang, Zhang Chundong, and Chen Zwowang. Compiled by Zhaohua Publishing House. Hong Kong, Hai Feng Publishing Co. and Zhaohua Publishing House, 1984. 227 pages. ISBN: 9622380166. This list of the Cannon Fist Form, Series II, in this book on pp. 84-86 is 71 named movements long. This list of the Cannon Fist Form has 71 named movements.

Jou Tsung Hwa 1980 The Tao of Tai-Chi Chuan: Way to Rejuvenation. By Jou, Tsung Hwa. Tai Chi Foundation, 1980. Master Jou lists 83 movements of the Old Form, First Frame. He provides the name for each movement in both in English and Chinese characters. This list of the Cannon Fist Form has 83 named movements.

Chen Xin 1932, 2007. "The Illustrated Canon of Chen Family Taijiquan." By Chen Xin. English Version, translated by Alex Goldstein. Maroubra, Australia, INBI Matrix Pty Ltd, 2007. ISBN: 5986870085.

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Sections of Chen Taijiquan, Old Frame, Second Form
Cannon Fist

For my own learning purposes, I have divided the Chen Cannon Fist Form into 8 Sections, I-XIII. Each Section has about 5 movements per Section:

Chen Taijiquan Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu Cannon Fist Form Sectional Arrangement

Section	Movement Numbers	My Notes
I	1-5	Section I

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Performance Times for a Complete Performance Of the Chen Taijiquan Cannon Fist Form (Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu)
Time	Performer	Source

4:30	Chen Zenglei	UTube Video, Laojia Erlu
2:58	Chen Bing	UTube Video, Laojia Erlu
5:09	Jonathan Savell	UTube Video, Laojia Erlu

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Chen Zenglei

Descriptions of Movements
Chen Taijiquan Cannon Fist Form (Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu)

Students of the Chen Taijiquan Cannon Fist Form (Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu) have a couple of print publications which provide detailed descriptions, notes, and comments on each of the 43 movements of Cannon Fist Form:

Return to Main Index

Mark Chen

History and Information
Chen Taijiquan Lao Jia Yi Lu (Old Frame, First Form)

Every Taijiquan master and grandmaster that I have read says that a person should first learn and practice the Old Frame, First Form, Laojia Yilu. They should practice the First Form for three years before they learn the Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu, Cannon Fist.

Brief Analysis of Chen Family Boxing Manuals. By Jarek Szymanski. "After examining the Chen clan writings and comparing them with "Qi Jiguang's Boxing Canon" and "Taizu Xia Nan Tang", Tang Hao found out that twenty nine postures of "Long-range Boxing" can be found in "Qi Jiguang's Boxing Canon" and eleven in "Taizu Xia Nan Tang"; for "Cannon Boxing" and five sets of "Thirteen Postures", twenty can be found in "Qi Jiguang's Boxing Canon" and nine in "Taizu Xia Nan Tang". Hence Tang Hao suspected that "Taizu Xia Nan Tang" was, together with "Qi Jiguang's Boxing Canon", the basis for Chen clan empty hand martial art. In Tang's opinion all other techniques were created by Chen Wangting, excluding spear and staff (which, according to "Wenxiu Version", were not original Chen techniques)." "Tai Zu is another name for Zhao Kuangyin (927-976), first emperor of Song Dynasty, traditionally considered to be the creator of Taizu Long-range Boxing. Qi Jiguang in his "New Book of Effective Techniques" mentions "Song dynasty Taizu had Long-range Boxing in Thirty Two Postures"; He Liangchen in "Records on Tactics" (Zhen Ji) includes similar note, but mentions thirty six postures instead of thirty two; Tang Shunzhi in his "Book on Martial Arts" (Wu Pian) says "Zhao Taizu Long-range boxing uses many kicks".

"Chen Wang Ting is attributed with creating seven empty hand sets (“five sets of shadow boxing” “one set of long boxing” containing 108 forms and the “One Set of Cannon-Bashing Combat Boxing”). Five generations later, Chen Chang Xing (14th generation Chen family) is said to have unified these into a single long routine (first form) and a single set of cannon bashing (2nd form). However, there is some speculation that Laojia Yilu (old frame routine one) came from the long boxing of Chen Wang Ting, the second routine (also sometimes referred to as “cannon fist”) came from the cannon bashing routine and the other 5 routines were lost within the 5 generations between Chen Wang Ting and Chen Chang Xing. Regardless, the routine as organized by Chen Chang Xing (laojia yilu) is the ancestor of all current tai chi chuan forms in existence."
- Michael Smith, Tai Chi History

"Perhaps the best known Chen family teacher was 14th generation Chen Changxing (陈长兴 Chén Chángxīng, Ch'en Chang-hsing, 1771-1853). He further synthesized Chen Wangting's open fist training corpus into two routines that came to be known as "old frame" (老架) (lao jia). ... Chen family teaching remained hidden and was not officially "released" to the public until 1928." - Wikipedia

"Chen Style Taiji is perhaps the most overtly martial of al Taiji styles. Most Chen Style forms are fast. These include Second Form (Cannon Bashing), saber, double saber, spear, long staff, short staff, three-opponent staff, flaive, punching bags, and several combat exercises. The only two forms that are decidedly slow are the First Form and the straight sword. ... Kinetic movements (meaning, again, movements that depend on momentum) must be trained at speed. Any time you have a weapon in your hands that swings or spins, you must actually swing it or spin it in order to learn its behavior. If you try to practice it slowly, you will not receive feedback from the weapon's own kinetic properties, and will consequently never learn how to exploit them. Without kinetic training, you will always be fighting the weapon. ... In certain situations, you need to wield your own body kinetically. Chen Taiji's Second Form (Cannon Bashing) is designed for exactly that purpose. Any movement in which you sweep, leap, close quickly with the opponent, change orientation in mid-air, or swing around to attack from a different direction must similarly be trained at speed. These are all movements that exploit the body's mass and momentum."
- Mark Chen, Old Frame Chen Family Taijiquan, p. 86

Return to Main Index

Learning the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame, Second Form, Laojia Erlu
Cannon Fist (Paocui)

Chen's Tai Chi Old Frame One and Two. By Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. Translated by Jack Yan. White Bench Publications, Toronto, Canada, 2011. 396 pages. Review, 2011. The Cannon Fist form is covered on pages 321-394. VSCL.

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Chen Style Taijiquan Old Frame (Lao Jia), Second Form (Er Lu), Laojia Erlu Cannon Fist (Paocui, Pao Chui, Pao Twi) Cannon Bashing Fist 陈氏 太极拳 老架 Chen T'ai Chi Ch'uan 43 Movement Hand Form

Research by Michael P. Garofalo

Chen Style Taijiquan
Old Frame (Lao Jia), Second Form (Er Lu), Laojia Erlu
Cannon Fist (Paocui, Pao Chui, Pao Twi)
Cannon Bashing Fist
陈氏太极拳老架
Chen T'ai Chi Ch'uan 43 Movement Hand Form

Research by
Michael P. Garofalo