Lesser Known Tai Chi Styles

In Tai Chi there are more than one style of the form practiced for health and wellness benefits. The best known of these is the Yang Style which was brought to the United States and practiced for decades as the only style for health. In recent years, other styles of Tai Chi have been introduced to the West with varying degrees of success. These lesser known styles are still Tai Chi in its purest forms, and were practiced in different regions of China over the years.

Chen Style

A hallmark characteristic of Chen style is the way the stances are held – much lower than in any other style of Tai Chi. This is quite a contrast to the high stances found in Yang and Wu styles. Chen style is also the most external of the styles of Tai Chi, often reminding watchers of the traditional Kung Fu from the southern regions of China. When the Chen style of Tai Chi is performed, the majority of the motions are performed slowly, but there are some quick, explosive movements as well. The rear knee is bent much more noticeably than in other styles of Tai Chi.

Sun Style

Sun style Tai Chi is a relatively new style, created in 1914 by Sun Lu Tang. He was already renowned in the world of martial arts at that time. He trained extensively in Hsing I, Bagua, and Shaolin Kung Fu. By combining the three together with the theory supported by Yi Jing, principles of Taoism, and Qigong, he created a new and unique style of Tai Chi.

Wu Style

Considered as the youngest of the traditional Tai Chi styles, Wu style has high stances and much slower movements. Wu Tai Chi introduces a lot of reaching and leaning movements, which has become the hallmark characteristic of this style. The movements are performed more slowly than in other styles.

To learn Tai Chi perfectly, seek out a school where you can learn with other students from the instructor. Feedback and correction from an experienced teacher is critical in learning how to perform the movements accurately, and to achieve lasting and meaningful benefits.