Chen Style Taijiquan-The Source of Taiji Boxing

As taijiquan has become increasingly popular, many people have inquired into its origins and development. Answers can be fouind in the Chen Style, th roiginal method from Chen Village, Henan Province in the People's Republic of China.

Chen style is the oldest form of taijiquan from which all the

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major styles originated. Crated at theend of the Ming dynasty, it is based upon a profound body of ancient knowledge that has influenced the Chinese way of thinking through the ages. It draws upon the principles of the Yijing (Book of Change), the yin-yang theory, and Daoist philosophy.

Chen style taijiquan combines the study of traditonal Chinese wu shu, movement science, and the Chinese medical theory of 'jingluo' (energy channels), 'daoyin' (leading and guiding energy), and 'tu-na' )breathing methods), resulting in a comprehensive system of self-defense and a valuable health exercise.

This book guides the reader through the historical development of the system, its philosophical roots, and through the inticracies of the various training methods of this unique form of Chinese boxing. Descriptions of the silk-reelng exercise, Laojia Yi Lu, Laojia Paocui, Fajing, Qinna, push hands, and taijiquan weapons are all featured. Legendary exploits of the Chen family are included to inspire today's practitioners.

Authors Davidine Sim and David Gaffney have made numerous visits to the People's Republic of China and the Far East to train with the leading figures of Chen style taijiquan, including Chen Xiaowang, Chen Zhenglei, and Zhu Tiancai.

Contents

Acknowledgements
Foreword
Chen Zhenglei
Zhu Tiancai
Chen Xiaowang
Chronological table of China
Notes on Chinese names and terms
Map of China
Map of Henan
Introduction
Chapter One: Roots
Origin and development
Evolution of other major styles
Recent developments
The question of origin
Chapter Two: Philosophy and theory
The concept of yin and yang
Taijiquan and Daoism
Explanation of qi
Silk-reeling essence of taijiuan
Chapter Three: Foundatin
Body requirements
Essence of Chen style taijiquan
Chen Xiaowangis five levels of skill
Common acupuncture points
Chapter Four: Training methods
Wuji Zhuang
Chan Ssu Gong (silk-reeling exercise)
Taolu (forms)
Laojia Yi Lu
Laojia Paocui
Stances adn stepping methods
Fajing
Qinna
Equipment training
Chapter Five: Push hands (tui shou)
The eight kinetci movements
The five footwork skills
Push hands requirements
Types of push hands
Chapter Six: Weapons
Sword
Broadsword
Spear
Spring and autumn broadsword
Chapter Seven: Chen Family legends
A pair of heroes defeat the bandits
Chen taijiquan will not be taught to the female line
Chen Jingbois fight to the death
One-eyed master
Chen Xinis heart and blood
Chen Fa-ke defeats the red spear gang
Chen Zhaopei restores the family treasure
Martial virtue
Chen family ancestal law
Bibliography
Index

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