© Green Way Research, Valley Spirit Center, Fir Grove, Vancouver, Washington, 2009-2022
 

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 pages, 5 1/2' by 8'. -  Wayfarer Publications   "It covers the content of the health exercise silk reeling video, and is a useful reference,  giving more detail, especially on theory." VSCL.   

Chen Style Taijiquan: Bibliography, Guides, Links, Lessons, Forms, Weapons  

Chen Style Taijiquan Collected Masterworks: The History of a Martial Art.  By Mark Chen.  Blue Snake Books, 2019.  256 pages.  ISBN: 978-1623173937. 

Chen Style Taijiquan Notepad.  By Christopher David Weinmann.   Comprehensive index of resources on Chen Taijiquan.

Chen Style Taijiquan, Old Frame First Form, Lao Jia Yi Lu.  By Michael P. Garofalo.  2007-2022.  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 videos available online.  Extensive notes on the author's learning the Old Frame, First Routine, Lao Jia Yi Lu; and on learning Chen Taijiquan.  Record of performance time of this form by many masters.  Breakdown by sections, with separate lists for each section.  General information, history, facts, information, pointers, and quotations. 

Chen Style Taijiquan Short 18 Form.  Performance by Master Chen Zhenglei.  UTube, color, 3:38 Minutes, 2007. 

Chen Style Taijiquan: Sword and Broadsword.   By Chen Zenglei.  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 Zenglei'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."  Another very good instructional DVD, by Jesse Tsao, Chen Style Tai Chi Old Frame Routine One, with English narration and detailed instructions, is based on the teaching of Chen Zenglei.  The detailed description of each movement in Chen Taijiquan Old Frame, First Form, by Chen Zenglei, with accompanying photographs of Chen Zenglei, is found on pages 65-252.  VSCL. 

Chen style Tai Chi Old Frame Routine I and Chen Tai Chi 18 Essential Forms.  Instructional and demonstration DVD by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei.  190 minutes, 2 DVDs.  English or Chinese soundtrack with Chinese subtitles.  VSCL. 

Chen Style Taijiquan 56 Competition Form Standard

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. 110-141.  VSCL. 

Chen Style Taijiquan: The 36 forms.  By Professor Kan Gui Xiang and Dr. Paul Lam.  Sydney, Australia, East Action Publishing, 1992.   189 pages.  Photographs by John Tourtas.  ISBN: 0646069934.  Professor Kan Gui Xing was an Associate Professor of Physical Science at the Beijing Institute of Physical Science for 36 years and retired in 2000.  She was born in 1940.  This excellent book, with an accompanying DVD or videotape, that can be used by beginners to learn this fine modern simplified version of the Chen family Taijiquan.  The DVD/videotape is titled "Tai Chi Chen Style 36 Forms" by Dr. Paul Lam.  It includes step-by-step instructions by Dr. Lam for one of the world's best known Chen style short forms.  The DVD/videotape includes a demonstration by the creator, Professor Kan.  Produced in Narwee, Australia, by East Action Video in 1993.  The videotape is 100 minutes long.  VSCL.  

Chen Tai Chi Academy, Poole, England.  Sifu Mark Ditcher.  18 Form instructions and videos.

Chen Tai Chi for Beginners.  Learn step by step the standard 56 Chen style competition form with Master Chenhan Yang.  YMAA Publication, DVD, 170 minutes, 2008.  Directed by David Silver.

Chen Tai Chi Fighting Applications.  Instructional DVD by Sifu Ken Gullette.  3 DVD discs, $40.00.  Sifu Gullette explores Laojia Yilu, a 75-movement Chen Taijiquan form and the first major form in Chen Tai Chi.  In this one form, he uncovers over 400 realistic and powerful fighting techniques, and and no movements are repeated.  Sifu Gullette goes even deeper than just the fighting applications.  He explains and demonstrates the internal body mechanics that give these techniques their power.  The fighting techniques in this form involve punches, palm strikes, kicks, knee strokes, shoulder and elbow strikes, chin-na, throws and takedowns.  It's a complete fighting art in one form. These DVDs have been praised even by disciples of Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang.  Since some movements are similar to those of other tai chi styles, any tai chi student and teacher will get insights into their art by watching the principles and techniques in these DVDs."  VSCL.

Chen Tai Chi Laojia Yilu Instruction.  By Sifu Ken Gullette.  Instructional DVD, 2 Disc Set, 5 hours Instruction, NTSC Format, $25.  Moline, Illinois, Internal Fighting Arts, 2015.  In-depth coaching on internal body dynamics.  Internal Fighting Arts of Ken Gullette, copyright 2015.  Sifu Ken Gullette was certified in 2005 as an instructor through Grandmaster Chen Xiaoxing's school in the Chen Villiage, China.  Sifu Gullette demonstrates the complete form from both a front and back view.  Detailed and informative verbal instructions and precise physical demonstrations are provided by Sifu Gullette for each of the 75 movements in this traditional form.
A strong emphasis on internal body mechanics.  Spiraling methods are given for the arms and hands.  Martial applications are shown.  Excellent coaching by Sifu Gullette for beginners learning this form.  Instruction is done with front, side, and rear views to facilitate visual learning.  Good English language is used: direct, explicit, detailed, informative, with a calm and pleasant voice in a typical practical American style.  Very good attention to the legs: postures, movements, weighting, shifting, stepping angles, and principles.  His explanations, in general, are outstanding.  A student works with Sifu Gullette in every lesson and he corrects student gently as needed.  Five hours of superior instruction for an very affordable DVD at $25.00 in 2022. Adequate menu system.  Sifu Gullette's online training program and 800 instructional videos, for $19.95 per month, might be an option to consider, if they have a good
menu system. VSCL.

Chen Taijiquan Illustrated. By David Gaffney and Davidine Siaw-Voon Sim. 2022, 215 pages. Paperback. "Explores the techniques, training methods and principles followed by generations of masters, iconic practitioners and high-level Taijiquan martial artists. This resource book synthesizes the habits, tools and philosophies honed over centuries of practical research and real-world application. Designed in an accessible dip-in format filled with notes, bullet points and highlights of the most important aspects needed to bring theory to practical reality. Throughout beautifully illustrated single-line drawings capturing the essential nature of Taijiquan. Chen Taijiquan's training system is a complex inter-connected methodology where each element affects everything else. The book helps ensure all important aspects are incorporated into your practice. It is broadly divided into three sections: Body Rules rules in terms of the physical structure and energetic state of the body; Practical Use/Application - concepts that must be understood if the art is to be used in a realistic way. Foundational Philosophical Concepts - ideas underpinning both the necessary mental attitude and its physical expression." VSCL.

Chen Taijiquan: The Theory and Practice of a Daoist Internal Martial Art: Volume 1, Basics and Short 18 Form.  By Thomas Hayes and Wang Hai Jun.  London, Mirador Pub., 2016.  471 pages.  No index. ISBN: 978-1911473480. Oversized paperback. "In this volume you will learn from a Daoist perspective; and, it includes the practical aspects of silk-reeling energy, standing meditation, and the Chen Zhenglei 18 Form Beginners routine. It also gives you an insight into the language and history of China. Chen Style Taijiquan is the oldest of the taiji styles. In this original form it retains its explosive martial arts aspects, while providing the many associated health benefits. Various other Tai Chi styles are based on this traditional form. Thomas Hayes is a leading Daoist scholar and practitioner. Grandmaster Wang Hai Jun was the first non-Chen family student in modern times to be traditionally trained in Chen Village in Henan. He is one of the foremost masters of Chen style with students throughout the world. His teacher, Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei, is one of the "Four Golden Tigers" of Chen style Taijiquan.“This is an extraordinary book. Whether you are a novice or an experienced martial arts practitioner of any style, you will find something of value tucked away in these rich pages.” David Luddington, 5th Dan Wado Karate." Thorough coverage of the Taoist philosophy and principles underlying the practice of Chen Taijiquan. VSCL.

Chen Taijiquan 38 Form.  Instructional DVD from Master Ren Guangyi.  Instructional DVD, 2 Disc Set, NTSC.  120 minutes.  2007. 

Chen Zhenglei (1949-)   Biography   Biography 2

Chen Zhenglei: A Taichi Biography.  By Cui Chundong.  Translated by Jack Yan.  Wushu Publishing House, 2017.  363 pages.  ISBN: 978-1926431017.

Chi Kung: Valley Spirit Qigong. Chinese Health and Longevity Exercise Routines. Extensive collection of varied routines with instructions and commentary. By Michael P. Garofalo.

Cloud Hands Blog

Cloud Hands Website: T'ai Chi Ch'uan and Ch'i Kung   By Michael P. Garofalo.

Cloud Hands (Taijiquan and Qigong) Website - Subject Index

Comparison of Movements of Chen Short 18 Form and Chen Old Frame First Form (Laojia Yilu)

Cultivating the Civil and Mastering the Martial: The Yin and Yang of Taijiquan.  By Andrew Townsend.  CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, no publisher listed on titlepages, 2016.  No index, brief bibliography, 424 pages.  Small typefont.  This volume is a huge compendia of information, comprehensive in scope, with good explanations, observations, insights, and summaries, etc..  This thick book includes some precise and detailed movement descriptions, sound Taijiquan teaching on many topics, and more than five hundred photographs and illustrations.  A heavy reference volume for your desktop; ebook versions for your tablet or phone or Kindle.  ISBN: 978-1523258536.  "Andrew Townsend has been practicing martial arts for more than forty years and began practicing taijiquan in 1990.  Mr. Townsend is a certified taijiquan instructor and a senior student of Grandmaster Jesse Tsao.  He is a retired college professor and has been actively teaching taijiquan for the past ten years.  He lives and teaches in Ormond Beach, Florida." VSVL.

Cultivating Longevity (Yang Sheng Gong)

The Longevity Plan. By John D. Day and Jane Ann Day, wth Matthew LaPlante. 2018, 304 pages. 1. Eat good food. 2. Master your mind-set. 3. Build your place in a positive community. 4. Be in motion. 5. Find your rhythm. 6. Make the most of your environment. 7. Proceed with purpose. John D. Day, M.D., Cardiologist, Electro-physiologist.

Books by Tom Bisio      Books by Eva Wong       Books by Livia Kohn     Books by Hua-Ching Ni

Books by Ken Cohen     Books by Yang Jwing-Ming       Webpages by Michael Garofalo

The Dantain: A Baffling Fancy. By Michael P. Garofalo. 10/7/2022.

The Dao of Taijiquan: Way to Rejuvenation  By Jou, Tsung Hwa.   Edited by Shoshana Shapiro.  Warwick, New York, Tai Chi Foundation, 1980.  263 pages.  First Edition.  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. 11-41.  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]  VSCL.

Description of the 18 Movements of the Chen Short 18 Form

Dragon River School of Chen Style Tai Chi Chuan: Chen 18 Form

18 Form (Shi Ba Shi – 十八式) Madison Taijiquan.

The Essence of Taijiquan.  By David Gaffney and Davidine Siaw-Voon Sim.  CreateSpace Publishing, 2012.  Interviews, bibliography, 288 pages.  ISBN: 978-1500609238.  VSCL.  Highly informative!  Excellent information on Taijiquan training principles, methods, and progression.  Strong emphasis upon training for combat skills.  Interesting observations about everyday life in the Chen village, ancestor respect and rituals, and overcoming the repression of the Maoist Cultural Revolution. VSCL.

Essence of Traditional Chen Style 18 Posture Short Form.  Instructional DVD by Shifu Jiang Jian-ye.  Color, 87 Minutes.  Capital District Tai Chi and Kung Fu Association of New York, 1997.  "Cheng Zheng Lei (the 19th generation of the Chen Family) created this form from the old style of Chen first and second routines.  It includes "silk reeling," fa jin (releasing energy), and balance.  This short form is a good introduction for beginners or for those with little Chen style experience."  "A good introductory Chen form that includes silk reeling and fajing movements as well as other characteristics of the Chen first and second routines. Chen Zhenglei, one of today's top Chen stylists, created the form. There is a demonstration of the entire form followed by step-by-step teaching in slow motion with 2-4 views, from the front, back and side. There are front and back demonstrations of each segment (5 to 7 moves each.)  At the end of the teaching there are demonstrations, front and back. There are also excerpts from other Chen forms." - Wayfarer Publications.  CDTKA.  I use a portable DVD player and this DVD works fine because of the way it is organized.  VSCL.

The Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi: 12 Weeks to a Healthy Body, Strong Heart, and Sharp Mind. By Peter Wayne, Ph.D., and
Mark L. Fuerst. Harvard Health Publications. Shambhala, 2013, 240 pages. VSCL.

Health Preserving Qigong, Chen-style TaiChi Quan I.  Instructional DVD by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei.  3 instructional DVDs in the Chinese language with English and Chinese subtitles.  ISBN: 7883046802.  "By Chen Zhenglei. 3 DVDs. A brief introductory section is in Chinese only, but teaching is in Chinese with English and Chinese subtitles. He teaches introductory and foundation exercises as well as an 18 movement form based on Chen Laojia with the difficult moves removed. The teaching is detailed with multiple repetitions and different camera angles."  - Wayfarer.   VSCL.

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

How many minutes will it typically take to perform the entire Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form?

Internal Training in Chen Taijiquan

Learning Chen Style Taijiquan - A Beginner's Notebook by Mike Garofalo

List of Movements in Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei's Short 18 Form   (1 Page, PDF)   English Only.  By Mike Garofalo.

List of Movements in Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei's Short 18 Form   (1 Page, PDF)   English and Chinese.  By Mike Garofalo.

List of Movements in Chen Taijiquan, Old Frame, First Form, Laojia Yilu   (2 pages, PDF)  English and Chinese.  By Mike Garofalo.

The Longevity Plan: Seven Life-Transforming Lessons from Ancient China. By John D. Day, M.D., Jane Ann Day, and Matthew LaPlante. Harvard Paperbacks, 2018, 304 pages. The Seven Lessons are: 1. Eat good food. 2. Master your mind-set. 3. Build your place in a positive community. 4. Be in motion. 5. Find your rhythm. 6. Make the most of your environment. 7. Proceed with purpose. Dr. Day stayed and studied at the Longevity Center in Bapan, CR China. VSCL.

Magic Pearl Qigong: A Tai Chi Medicine Ball Exercise Routine and Meditation Technique

Medical Benefits of Taijiquan Practice

Notes on Learning Chen Style Taijiquan - A Beginner's Notebook by Mike Garofalo

Old Frame, First Form, Laojia Yilu, Chen Style Taijiquan

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

Performance Time for the Chen Taijiquan Short 18 Form

Photographs of Chen 18 Movements by the Dragon River School of Tai Chi Chuan   A detailed photographic study of the Chen 18 Form.

Plumb Publications: Chen Taijiquan 

Power and Serenity.  By Master Ren Guang Yi.  Instructional DVD in NTSC format.  The Short 19 Form from Grand Master Chen Xiao-Wang, and Silk Reeling exercises from Grand Master Chen Xiao Wang.  70 minutes.  2010.

Qigong: Valley Spirit Qigong. Chi Kung, Chinese Health and Longevity Exercise Routines. Extensive collection of varied routines with instructions and commentary. By Michael P. Garofalo .

Quotations about Chen Style Taijiquan

Red Bluff, California, Chen Style Taijiquan Study Group

Relaxation - Song

Ripening Peaches:  Daoist Studies and Practices.  Taoist scriptures, bibliography, Quanzhen Daoism, Neidan, gardening, tea, history, qigong/daoyin, readings, etc.

Resources for the Study of Chen Style Taijiquan

Saber (Dan Dao), Broadsword, Saber Weapon, Chen Style Taijiquan

Short Forms of Chen Style Taijiquan

18 Movements, Created by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei

19 Movements, Created by Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang

24 Movements, Hunyuan Chen Tai Chi

36 Movements, Created By Professor Professor Kan Gui Xiang

38 Movements, Created by Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang

56 Movements, Competition Form, Mixed Old and New Frames

74 Movements, Long Form, Old Frame, First Form (Laijia Yilu)  Traditional Chen Family Form from 1800

Silk Reeling, Chan Ssu Gong:  Links, bibliography, quotes, notes.  Chan Si Gong (Reeling Silk Training): Bibliography, Links, Resources. Internal Training Exercises Using Spiraling, Coiling, Twining, Winding, Reeling, or Circling Methods.  Chen Taijiquan Qigong, Internal Training Exercises.

Standing Meditation, Standing Like a Tree, Post Standing, Zhan Zhuang  

Styles of Chinese Martial Arts, Martial Arts World

Subject Index to the Cloud Hands (Taijiquan and Qigong) Website 

Sword (Jian), Double Edged Straight Sword, Chen Style Taijiquan

Suggestions for Beginning Your Study of Chen Taijiquan 

Tai Chi Chen 18 Form.  Instruction by Master Norman Smith.  DVD, 60 minutes. This DVD video teaches the Chen Style 18 movements posture-by-posture with repetition and explanation by Master Norman Smith. In English. Master Smith will break down the form and include some Chen style drills.  VSCL.

Tai Chi - Chen Style 36 Forms.  By Dr. Paul Lam.  Instructional DVD, NTSC Format.  Tai Chi Productions, 1993.  ISBN: 978-0975200377.  VSCL. 

Tai Chi 18 Short Form DVD (PAL) by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei    Instructional DVD in the PAL format (used outside the USA).  "Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei is the foremost authority on Chen Style Tai Chi and the creator of the 18 Short Form. This form has been designed for beginners of Chen Style Tai Chi, and is part of the book Tai Chi for Health. The DVD includes an introduction, followed by a demonstration of the 18 Short Form with step by step instructions for each individual movement as well as explanations and breakdowns repeated from different camera perspectives and at different speeds with detailed commentary to maximize the benefits of practice and implementation. The video footage was filmed in a professional studio in China with the latest DVD authoring techniques enabling you to navigate and watch the DVD easily and efficiently. The commentary of the DVD includes English and Chinese with the introduction section covered by more languages such as Spanish, Greek. Published by the Chen Style Tai Chi Centre.  ISBN: 1904719163."  Tai Chi Centre

Tai Chi for Health.  By Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei and Master Liming Yue.  Chen Style Tai Chi Centre, Manchester, U. K, 2005.  ISBN: 194719112.  208 pages.  Color photographs.  "By Chen Zhenglei and his student, Liming Yue. In English. Includes principles of Tai Chi for Health, foundation training exercises, Taji skills for preserving energy, illustrations of the 18 forms, Comments from Westerners about Tai Chi plus interviews with Tai Chi practitioners. Many photos. Paperback. 7 1/4 X 10 1/.4. #9.99."  -  Wayfarer Publications.   Amazon.  Tai Chi Centre  "Tai Chi for Health was officially released at the International Tai Chi Festival and the third International Exchange Competition opening ceremony in China in August 2005. This full color book focuses on the health benefits of Tai Chi, concentrating on the official Chen Style 18 Short Form, Silk Reeling Energy and Qigong exercises. The book contains detailed illustrated instructions and in-depth discussion of the theories behind the practice. The text offers an unprecedented insight into the techniques and theory of Chen Style Tai Chi. The authors bring together their vast knowledge, teaching experience and cultural understanding to create a work that is accessible to western students whilst keeping all the important detail often lost in translations. The book has been written over a two and a half year period by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei and Master Liming Yue with the assistance of several of Master Liming Yue's senior students. Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei is the 11th Generation head of the Chen Style Tai Chi and 19th generation of the Chen family.  Master Liming Yue is one of Europe's foremost Tai Chi masters and holds a seventh Duan Wei officially issued by the Chinese Wu Shu Association China."  -  Tai Chi Center, U.K.   The Tai Chi Centre offers two free downloadable sections of this book.  Chen Style Taijiquan Short 18 Form.  Performance by Master Chen Zhenglei.  UTube, color, 3:38 Minutes, 2007. Available as a PDF version for Free online. VSCL.

Tai Chi for Health 18 Form DVD.  Instructional DVD by Master Chen Zhenglei.  PAL format???  "The new DVD - Tai Chi 18 Form DVD for the book – Tai Chi for Health - featured by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei has been officially released and It is now available to purchase at: the online shop . Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei is the foremost authority on Chen Style Tai Chi and the creator of the 18 Short Form. This form has been designed for beginners of Chen Style Tai Chi, and is part of the book Tai Chi for Health. The DVD includes an introduction, followed by a demonstration of the 18 Short Form with step by step instructions for each individual movement as well as explanations and breakdowns repeated from different camera perspectives and at different speeds with detailed commentary to maximize the benefits of practice and implementation. The video footage was filmed in a professional studio in China with the latest DVD authoring techniques enabling you to navigate and watch the DVD easily and efficiently. The commentary for the introduction is covered by Chinese, English, Spanish and Greek."

Tai Chi Qigong   Instructional DVD by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei.  110 Minutes.  ASIN: B001QU3ZUA.  

Tai Chi--The Perfect Exercise: Finding Health, Happiness, Balance, and Strength  By Arthur Rosenfeld.  Da Capo Lifelong Books, 2013.  ISBN: 978-0738216607.  VSCL. 

Taijiquan: Cultivating Inner Strength  By C. P. Ong.  Bagua Press, 2013.  366 pages.  ISBN: 978-0615874074. "This book diverges from traditional exposition on Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan) as it engages rather than shuns the role of muscles in elucidating the cryptic practice dictum of “using yi (mind) and not li (muscle force).” It centers on the core principle of Taiji balance—the balance of yin and yang, but presents the metaphysics of balance the way the body comprehends it, developmentally, through practice in the musculo-skeletal framework. In the process, the fog of mystique lifts, and the many abstruse concepts of Taijiquan become clear. Taijiquan training is physical at the initial phase, but the slow-motion exercise nurtures a meditative discipline of the mind. As it progresses, the soft methodology grows into one of building qi-energy, and then the practice becomes more internalized. The process fortifies the body with qi and cultivates a holistic balance of the organ systems. The book explains how the training methodology, in pursuing Taiji balance, leads to the development of a highly refined strength called neijin (inner strength). By incorporating the training of “silk-reeling energy” in Taiji balance, the practitioner develops the coiling power (chanrao jin) that underlies the magic of Taijiquan kungfu."  Dr. Ong has a Ph.D. in mathematics from U.C. Berkeley.  C.P. Ong is a 20th generation Chen Family Taijiquan disciple of both Chen Xiaowang and Chen Zhenglei. He has traveled with them, as well as with Zhu Tiancai, for a few years in their U.S. workshop tours. VSCL.

Talking Chen Tajiquan with David Gaffney  Blog.

Taoism and the Philosophy of Tai Chi Chuan

The Three Treasures: Body, Mind, Actions. By Michael P. Garofalo.

Vacation and Learn Taijiquan and Qigong with Mike Garofalo in Vancouver, Washington

Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Red Bluff, California.  Instructor: Michael P. Garofalo, M.S.

Videos of Chen Taijiquan Short 18 Form

Chen 18 Form Resources. A webpage with 12 videotaped demonstrations on UTube of the Chen 18 Tajiquan form. Prepared by Earth Balance Tai Chi.
 

VSCL =  Valley Spirit Center Library, My Home Library, Vancouver, Washington 
 

Yang Style of Taijiquan   Bibliography, links, resources, quotes, notes. 

Yang Style Taijiquan, Standard 24 Movement Short Form

Zhan Zhuang, Standing Like a Tree, Post Standing, Standing Meditation  

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UTube Video Performances of the Chen Taijiquan Short 18 Form

New videos of performances of the Chen Short 18 are added to UTube on a regular basis.   Based on what I've viewed, as of 2/1/10, I recommend:

    1.  Performance by Master Chen Zhenglei, 3:38 Minutes. 

    2.  Performance by Augusto Garcia, 3:29 Minutes. 

    3.  Performance by Master Peili Hu, 3:56 Minutes. 

Chen Short 18.  Performance by Master Chen Zhenglei.  UTube, color, 3:38 Minutes, 2007.  Professional setting in a grant hall; but video is bit unclear.  Sound good. 

Chen Short 18.  Performance by Master Chen You Nan.  UTube, color, 1:42 Minutes, 2007.  A brisk performance by Master Chen in a shopping center. 

Garcia Short 18.  Performance by Augusto Garcia.  UTube, color, 3:29 Minutes, 2007.  Performed outdoors in a park, mixed sounds. 

Henry Short 18.  Performance by Henry.  UTube, color, 2:30 Minutes, 2009.  In Henry's backyard. 

Hori Short 18.  Performance by Seiji Hori.  UTube, color, 4:21 Minutes, 2009.  Filmed in a studio, from a left front view.  Filmed a bit too close so you can't see feet below knees. 

Huang Short 18, Part I.  Performance by Master Henry Huang.  UTube, color, 2:27 Minutes, 2009.  Filmed in an outdoor setting in Thailand.  Part I. 

Huang Short 18, Part II.  Performance by Master Henry Huang.  UTube, color, 1:45 Minutes, 2009.  Filmed in an outdoor setting in Thailand.  Part I. 

Man Short 18.  Performance by an unnamed young man.  UTube, color, 4:05 Minutes, 2008.  Filmed outdoors in a backyard.  Outdoor sounds of cars and birds. 

Suter Short 18.  Performance by Michael Suter.  UTube, color, 2:29 Minutes, 2008.  Filmed from a side view.  Mr. Suter names the movements.  Not all of form is shown. 

Liu Short 18.  Performance by Master Liu Yong.  UTube, color, 2:06 Minutes, 2007.  Very blurry video. 

Peili Short 18.  Performance by Master Peili Hu.  UTube, color, 3:35 Minutes, 2008.  The lighting is too dark.  The video includes the names of each movement. 

Wang Short 18.   Performance by Master Wang Zhi Ping.  UTube, color, 3:56 Minutes, 2005.  A new interpretation by Master Wang.  Not all of the form is shown. 

Woman Short 18.  Performance by a unnamed young woman.  UTube, color, 2:56 Minutes, 2009.  Filmed near a lake.  Incomplete. 

Search UTube:   Chen Taijiquan 18 Form,

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Chen Style Taijiquan
Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei's Short 18 Movements Tai Chi Hand Form, 2001
List of 18 Movements

1.     Beginning Posture of Taiji    (Taiji Chu Shi) 

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

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

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

5.     Single Whip   (Dan Bian)  

6.     White Crane Spreads Its Wings   (Bai E Liang Chi) 

7.     Walk Diagonally   (Xie Xing)    

8.     Brush Knee   (Lou Xi) 

9.     Stepping to Both Sides   (Ao Bu)    

10.   Cover Hands and Strike with Fist   (Yan Shou Gong Quan)    

11.   High Pat on the Horse   (Gao Tan Ma)   

12.   Kick with the Left Heel    (Zuo Deng Yi Gen) 

13.   Jade Maiden Working Her Loom   (Yu Nu Chuan Suo)    

14.   Cloud Hands   (Yun Shou)     

15.   Turn Body with Double Lotus Kick    (Zhuan Shen Shuang Bai Lian) 

16.   Cannon Fist Over the Head   (Dan Tou Pao)    

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

18.   Closing Posture of Taiji   (Taiji Shou Shi)      

List of Movements in Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei's Short 18 Form  (1 Page, PDF)  English Only 

List of Movements in Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei's Short 18 Form  (1Page, PDF)  English and Chinese  

List of Movements in Chen Taijiquan, Old Frame, First Form, Laojia Yilu   (2 pages, PDF)  English and Chinese 

Comparison of Chen 18 Taijiquan Form with the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame First Form Laojia Yilu.

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Chen Style Taijiquan
Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei's Short 18 Movements Tai Chi Hand Form
Description, Notes, Comments, Instructions

It not my intention to provide detailed verbal descriptions of each movement.  Books by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei, and other good Chen Taijiquan books and instructional DVDs/UTubes already provide this detailed and useful information. 

I want to collect together my thoughts about the possible meanings of the movement names, historical musings, interesting quotes, interrelations with ideas from other Taijiquan styles, and related matters. 

I will frequently give directional information for movement sequences, because this information is useful to me. 

When learning, it benefits me and helps me to remember by making notes and doing research.  So, is this webpage really intended for readers other than me?  Yes and No! 

When citing references, I will use the convention of "(Author, Publication Date: Page)" and list all references cited from the resources listed in the general Chen Taijiquan Bibliography.

All movements in the Chen 18 Tai Chi Short Form are found in the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame First Form.  I find the Chen 18 Form more Old Frame than New Frame.  Do you agree? 

This webpage is an ongoing project, and will not be a finished product in 2022. 

I welcome comments, suggestions, ideas, constructive criticism, and feedback from the readers of this webpage.

I have been practicing Taijiquan and Qigong since 1986, teaching Taijiquan and Qigong since from 2000-2022, and teaching Yoga from 2004-2016. My wife and I retired and moved from Red Bluff to Vancouver, Washington, in April of 2017.

I do have some suggestions for beginning Taijiquan students. 

Practice and study, practice and study, practice and study! 

"The fundamental principles for Chen Style T'ai Chi Ch'uan are summarized as follows:

Keeping the head upright (虚领顶劲, xū ling ding jin)

Keeping the body straight (立身中正, lìshēn zhōngzhèng)

Drop the shoulders and sink the elbow (松肩沉肘, sōng jiān chén zhou)

The chest curve inwards and the waist pressed forward.(含胸塌腰, hán xiōng tā yāo)

Sink the energy to the dantian (心气下降, xīn qì xià jiàng)

Breathe naturally (呼吸自然, hū xī zì rán)

Relax the hips and keep the knees bent (松胯屈膝 ,sōng kuà qū xī)

The crotch is arch shaped (裆劲开圆, dāng jìn kāi yuán)

Keep the mind pure and clear (虚实分明, xū shí fēn míng)

The top and bottom work together (上下相随. shàng xià xiāng suí)

Adjust hardness and softness (刚柔相济, gāng róu xiāng jì)

Alternate fast and slow (快慢相间, (kuài màn xiāng jiàn)

The external shape is curved (外形走弧线, wài xíng zou hú xiàn)

The internal energy travels a spiral path (内劲走螺旋, nèi jìn zou luó xuán)

The body leads the hand (以身领手, yi shēn ling shou)

Six Sealing and Four Closing    [Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yue 2005]  
Sealing Six Avenues of Attack and Closing Four Sides (Liu Feng Si Bi)    [Chen Zhenglei 2003] 
Six Sealing, Four Closing (Liu Feng Si Bi)  [Mark Chen] 
40% Open and 60% Closed  [Jou Tsung Hwa] 
Six Sealing and Four Closing (Liu Feng Si Bi)  [Sim & Gaffney] 
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

A note on the source of the illustrations.

4h.  Head facing NE2.  Right arm pointing towards NE2.   

Martial Applications of Six Sealing and Four Closing, UTube, 1:29 minutes. 

Troubleshooting "6 Sealing and 4 Closing."  Comments on short forms and the left version of this movement and 60%/40%. 

"However-- I have to disagree that there is deep meaning in the movements at all, let alone in the Chinese names as opposed to the English translations. This is a martial art; or if it's not really a martial art anymore as it's frequently taught, it still has martial origins. The movements aren't mystical clues a la Dan Brown; they're punches, kicks, throws, blocks, etc. They don't have MEANING, they have PURPOSE. Furthermore, the names for the movements are often misleading, uninformative, or open to interpretation. Chen taiji stylists say "six sealing, four closing"; Yang taiji people say "like sealing, like closing", or shorten the whole thing to "apparently closing". The two phrases sound very similar in Mandarin; they're written with different characters, but the martial artists who originally came up with the names were illiterate, so we don't really know what they had in mind. I'm inclined to think it means six parts sealing, four parts closing, except I don't really understand what the difference is between the two verbs in the first place."  -  Jerry Larson  

"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.

The best description of the Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form, is found in Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yuei's Tai Chi for Health, 2005, pp. 75-115.  Each move in the Chen 18 Form is also found in the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame First Form Laojia Yilu 74 Movements Form, and the most detailed description of the Laojia Yilu is found in Chen Zhenglei's book Chen Style Taijiquan: Sword and Broadsword, 2003, pp. 65-262. 

Single Whip (Dan Bian)    [Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yue 2005; Chen Zhenglei 2003]
Single Whip (Dan Bian)  [Mark Chen] 
Single Whip  [Jou Tsung Hwa]
Single Whip (Dan Bian)  [Sim & Gaffney] 
Single Whip  (Dan Bian)  [Chen Xin]
Single Whip  [Zhaohua]
Choisissez Le Fouet 
Single Peitsche  
Escoja El Azote 
单鞭  :  Dan Bian 
Pull up hidden block (Liao Yin Jie), Shaolin Tai Tzu Chang Quan Yi Lu, from military Hong Quan, circa 970 CE.   

5e.  Head facing W9.  Chest facing N12.  Left hand facing W9.     

The best description of the Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form, is found in Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yuei's Tai Chi for Health, 2005, pp. 75-115. 

How many minutes will it typically take to perform the entire Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form?

"In practicing taijiquan, the requirements on the different parts of the body are: keeping a straight body; keeping the head and neck erect with mindfulness at the tip of the head as if one is lightly lifted by a string from above; relaxing the shoulders and sinking the elbows; relaxing the chest and waist letting them sink down; relaxing the crotch and bending the knees. When these requirements are met, one's inner energy will naturally sink down to the dan tian. Beginners may not be able to master all these important points instantly. However, in their practice they must try to be accurate in terms of direction, angle, position, and the movements of hands and legs for each posture. At this stage, one need not place too much emphasis on the requirements for different parts of the body, appropriate simplications are acceptable. For example, for the head and upper body, it is required that the head and neck be kept erect, chest and waist be relaxed downward, but in the first level of kung fu, it will be sufficient just to ensure that one's head and body are kept naturally upright and not leaning forward or backward, to the left or right. This is just like learning calligraphy, at the beginning, one need only to make sure that the strokes are correct. Therefore, when practicing taijiquan at the beginning, the body and movements may appear to be stiff; or 'externally solid but internally empty'. One may find oneself doing things like: hard hitting, ramming, sudden uplifting and or sudden collapsing of body or trunk. There may be also be broken or over-exerted force or jin. All these faults are common to beginners. If one is persistent enough and practices seriously everyday, one can normally master the forms within half a year. The inner energy, qi, can gradually be induced to move within the trunk and limbs with refinements in one's movements. One may then achieve the stage of being able to use external movements to channel internal energy'. The first level kung fu thus begins with mastering the postures to gradually being able to detect and understand jin or force."
-  Seattle School of Chen Style Taijiquan

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6a.  Face

The best description of the Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form, is found in Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yuei's Tai Chi for Health, 2005, pp. 75-115. 

A note on the directional scheme.  

7a.  Face

The best description of the Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form, is found in Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yuei's Tai Chi for Health, 2005, pp. 75-115. 

8a.  Face

The best description of the Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form, is found in Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yuei's Tai Chi for Health, 2005, pp. 75-115. 

9a.  Face

The best description of the Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form, is found in Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yuei's Tai Chi for Health, 2005, pp. 75-115.  Each move in the Chen 18 Form is also found in the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame First Form Laojia Yilu 74 Movements Form, and the most detailed description of the Laojia Yilu is found in Chen Zhenglei's book Chen Style Taijiquan: Sword and Broadsword, 2003, pp. 65-262. 

How many minutes will it typically take to perform the entire Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form?

10a.  Face

A Few Highlights of Chen Taijiquan History

"According to the Li Family Genealogy, the early patriarchs of Li, Chen (Chen Bu), and three other families became sworn brothers on their migration from Shanxi in the fourteenth century. This event took place in the Qianzai Temple of Tang Village in Boai County, which is about 30 miles away from the present Chen Village. By the ninth generation, the Li patriarchs Zhong and Xin, and their inter-marriage cousin Chen Wangting again swore themselves to be brothers like their forefathers, and took the abbot Bogong Wudao as their master at the Taiji Gate of Qianzai Temple. The contents of the papers day that Chen and the Li brothers created taiji yangshen gong, or "the art of Taiji Cultivating Life," and practiced and transmitted wuji yangshen gong, or "the art of Wuji Cultivating Life," shisanshi tongbei gong , or "the Thirteen Postures Boxing." "The art of Wuji Cultivating Life" and "the Thirteen Postures Boxing" had been created by the Qianzai Temple priest Shi Li (614-741), or Li Daozi, according to stone tablets at the temple, who well studied the Three Teachings, Qianjin yifang: "Revised Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Pieces of Gold;" daoyin: "guiding and pulling"; and tunai: "expelling the old breath and drawing the new." It is said that various martial art postures (from nearby Shaolin and other sources, such as the Chang Nai Chou’s Nei Jia Quan, from the neighboring Wen county) were combined with classic Chinese internal health theories of passages of blood, air flow, and energy. This new art eventually became known as Chen family boxing. By the 1700's, Chen Wang Ting's style had developed into the Five Routines of Pao Chuoi and Hong Quan, a 32- and a 108-posture Tai Ji form, and one Duan Da (short strike) form. Over time many of these forms were said to have been lost. By the end of the century, the art had been passed to Chen Chang Xing, 14 th generation, who united and simplified the various routines. It is said by some that Chen Chang Xing re-introduced Nei Jia Quan into his Chen family art via teachings from Wang Zong Yue and Jian Fa. According to an interview (by Yuan Quan Fu) with Li Libing, the present eighteenth generation of Li family, Wang Zong Yue came from Shanxi, and lived in the Tang village as a schoolteacher for five or six years. There, Wang studied martial arts with Li Helin, who was born in 1721, the twelfth generation of the Li Family. (Chen Chang Xing was also the teacher of Yang Lu-chan, originator of Yang Tai Ji Quan. What is very interesting is that the Chen linage, Yang Lu Chan, and Wu Yu Xiang and his brothers, ALL had learned Shaolin Hong Quan in their youth. Many of the ideas and movements seen in Yang style, but not obvious in Chen style, can be found in Hong Quan forms, especially the Xiao Hong Quan form. The concept and movements of Tai Ji Quan’s Push Hands are also found in the Step Forward Push Palms postures in Xiao Hong Quan, along with the Fair Lady Works at Shuttles movement.)"
-   The Hidden Song Taizu Chang Quan Roots of Chen Taiji.  By Salvatore Canzonieri.  Shaolin Kung Fu Magazine, January/February, 2007, Article #30. 

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

Chen Wangting, 1600-1680, 9th Generation in Chen Village, Creator of the original Chen Taijiquan corpus of Seven Routines.
He is considered the founder of Chen Style Taijiquan. 

               
                                                    
                                                           Chen Wangting (1600-1680)

Chen Changxing, 1771-1853, 陳長興, 14th Generation in Chen Village, utilized the hand forms of the original Seven Routines of Chen Wangting's Taijiquan and consolidated and rearranged them into the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame (Laojia) First Form (Yi Lu) and Second Form (Er Lu). 

Chen Changxing (1771-1853)

Chen Zhenglei, 1949- , 19th generation in the Chen Village, utilized the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame First Form (Laojia Yilu) and created a simplified Chen Taijiquan short form of 18 movements in the 1990's. 

                                     Chen Zhenglei (1949 - )

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11a.  Face

Martial Applications of High Pat on Horse, UTube, 1:10 minutes. 

The best description of the Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form, is found in Chen Zhenglei and Liming Yuei's Tai Chi for Health, 2005, pp. 75-115.  Each move in the Chen 18 Form is also found in the Chen Taijiquan Old Frame First Form Laojia Yilu 74 Movements Form, and the most detailed description of the Laojia Yilu is found in Chen Zhenglei's book Chen Style Taijiquan: Sword and Broadsword, 2003, pp. 65-262. 

How many minutes will it typically take to perform the entire Chen Taijiquan, Short 18 Form?

12a.  Face

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13a.  Face

It might be helpful to consider each posture from the perspective of the "Sixteen Requirements" set forth by Chen Zhaokui (1928-1981) in his book "Entering the Door of Taijiquan" (Sim and Gaffney 2002: 116):

"Chen Zhaokui lists sixteen requirements that must be present throughout each posture:
Eye movement (the direction of the eyes)
The shape of the hands, and how the hand changes as the movement is being performed
Footwork (how to execute changes when stepping)
Shun-chan and ni-chan of the legs
Open and closing of the chest and back  
Rising and falling of the buttocks  
Dantian rotation (waist and lower abdomen) 
Shifting weight (the relationship of substantial and insubstantial) 
Beginning and end points, as well as the transition movements of the upper and lower limbs 
How much strength to us, and where the strength should be concentrated (i.e., where is the attack point) 
Position and direction of posture 
The rise and fall of spiral movement (top and bottom coordination) 
The change in tempo (alternating slow and fast) 
Breathing (coordination of breathing and movement)  
Listening."

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14a.  Face

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15a.  Face

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15a.  Face

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17a.  Face

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18a.  Face

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Chen Style Taijiquan
Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei's Short 18 Movements Tai Chi Hand Form
General Notes, Endnotes

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A Note on the Source of the Illustrations

The nice, detailed, and clear line drawings of a person performing the Chen Taijiquan, Old Frame, First Form (Chen Taijiquan Laojia Yilu) were found in Chinese books written by Chen Sin and Shen Chia-Jen.  Jou Tsung Hwa reproduced the illustrations in his 1980 English language classic "The Tao of Tai-Chi Chuan: Way to Rejuvenation."  VSCL. Master Jou says "The pictures of the first Lu depict Chen Fu-Ku's son, Chen Chai-Kuei.  These diagrams are reproduced from the most authentic, original sources available, those written by Chen Sin and Shen Chia-Jen." (Jou 1980, p.13)  The reproduced line drawings were organized with around 30 drawings on a page, and numbered to correspond to Master Jou's list of the 83 named movements of the First Form (Yilu).  These black and white illustrations are widely available on the Internet.  It should be noted that these illustrations do not correspond exactly to how the Chen Taijiquan Short 18 Form is actually done. 

Using the drawings published by Chen Sin and Shen Chia-Jen, I have organized 4-8 of these line drawings into a graphic for each individual named movement sequence where possible.  Each drawing is numbered  consecutively within each named movement pattern to facilitate a more detailed commentary.  I reduced the size of the graphic, and made the graphic transparent.

Another source for detailed line drawings of a version of the Old Frame First Form (Laojia Yilu) can be found in "The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan" by (Wong 1996).  The original Yilu consisted of 83 movements or patterns (Jou 1980); and Master Wong uses a simplified version of 54 movements; while Maste Cehn Zhenglei says the form has 74 movements.   

The best photographic study of the Laojia Yilu has been published in the instructional DVD featuring Master Ren Guang Yi.  Chen Taijiquan: Lao Jia Yi Lu and Straight Sword.  Demonstration and instruction by Master Ren GuangYi.  Music and narration by Lou Reed.  "Captured in high-definition (HD) in New York's Central Park, each form is demonstrated angles.  Each form is also shown in FlipperVision, a slideshow comprised of nearly 2,000 photos by famed photographer Martin von Hasselberg, so you may carefully study each of Master Ren's postures in detail."  A YMAA production.  90 minutes, color.  ISBN: :1594390819.  Instructional DVD.  2006.  Ren GuangYi's Website. VSCL.

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This webpage was last modified, improved, edited or updated on September 2, 2022.     

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