Tai Chi styles

Chen style

The oldest known Form of Tai Chi begins in Chen family (and with it "modern" history of Tai Chi as well). The founder of this style is Chen Wang Ting (1600-1680). This style is characterized by sudden, explosive movements, swiftness in the change of tempo (yin/yang), hitting the ground hard with your feet, jumps and low postures.

Yang style

The originator of this style is Yang Lu Chan (1799-1872). He was the first disciple to a founder of Chen style Chen Wang Ting not coming from Chen family. Being taught everything from Chen Tai Chi and having previous martial arts knowledge, he creates Tai Chi Yang style, which is the most popular in the world today. This style is characterised by slow motions and soft circular movements.

Wu style

There are two Wu styles. The founder of the first one is Chuan You (1832-1902).Characteristics of this style are compact forms, slow movements and mild forward stooping of the body in such a way that head, spine and back spread leg form straight line.

The founder of the second style is Wu Yuxiang (1812- 1880). This style is characterised by compact forms, high postures, body held straight. Arms do not cross and they are not spread wider than feet. 

Sun style

The founder of this style is Sun Lutang (1861-1932). As the master of the other two inner styles, he puts in key elements of those styles. This style is characterized by high postures, uniform tempo, minimal number of strikes and small but spry steps.