Tai Chi is a beautiful art people fall in love with both for the joy of learning as well as its many benefits. Often represented by the image most people recognize as the Yin Yang. This symbol is a circle containing two ever changing polarities. The Yin Yang, like Tai Chi, is constantly moving and flowing. Both the symbol and the practice maintain perpetual balance and harmony. By following this Taoist philosophy the art and principles of Tai Chi Chaun (Taijiquan) were developed. This centuries old practice is now known world wide as a wonderful way to improve the health and well being of all those willing to try it.

“Tai Chi involves a lot of stretching and breathing. Your mind and body move together. Students need time to get used to that. With the same movement, people do it differently. You can’t do equal movements. You have your own steps, timing, experience and spirit.” ~Master Guangzhi Xing

We offer a wide variety of classes in all forms of taijiquan. Below are some brief descriptions and videos of each style. Of course, the best way to get a feel for which one is right for you is to come in and try it out.

Chen Style

The Chen family-style is the oldest and parent form of the traditional family styles. It was developed by Chen Wang Ting (c1600 – 1680).  Chen-style is characterized by silk reeling, alternating fast/slow motion and bursts of power (fa jin). Chen Style taijiquan is best known for its martial aspect and it closely resemble Shaolin Kungfu in its demonstrations.  Chen style is usually practiced by our advanced students who have developed a strong foundation in Yang style.

Yang Style

The most widely practiced style of taijiquan, Yang style was developed by Yang Lu Chan (1799 – 1872 AD) and is best known for its gentle and graceful movements.  Beginners are taught the 24-posture Simplified Form, sometimes called the Beijing form for its place of origin. The 24-form is the most practiced taiji form in China and the world over causing many people to have the mistaken impression that it is the only form of taijiquan. At YYTA, you will be taught Training Forms 1 and 2 that Master Xing created to help give students a solid foundation for the 24-form.

Wu (Hao) Style (pronounced WOO HOW)

Wu Style Taijiquan was developed by Wu Yu Xiang (1812 – 1880) and is characterized by small movements to enhance the internal force in the body. Wu Yu Xiang’s taijiquan is a distinctive style with small, subtle movements; highly focused on balance, sensitivity and internal qi development. It is a rare style today, especially compared with the other major styles.

Sun Style (pronounced “SOON”)

Sun Style taijiquan was developed by Sun Lu Tang (1861 – 1932), the only master who was expert in all three internal styles. He absorbed the best of Chen, Yang and Wu styles to develop his own style. Sun style taijiquan is well known for its smooth, flowing movements which omit the more physically vigorous movements of some other styles. The footwork of Sun style is unique, when one foot advances or retreats the other follows. It also uses an open palm throughout the entirety of its main form, and exhibits small circular movements with the hand. Its gentle postures and high stances make it very suitable for geriatric exercise and martial arts therapy.

Qigong classes

We also teach a variety of Qigong styles. Please visit our Qigong class page for additional information.

Workshops

We also offer a variety of workshops in various styles and weapons.  Please visit our Workshops page for additional information.

Private Lessons

Private one-on-one lessons with Master Xing are also available. Call or email the school for details.