Chen Taijiquan

Chen style taijiquan is the oldest of the five major styles of taijiquan -- the others being Yang, Wu, Wu (Hao) and Sun -- and is known as the "mother of taijiquan." It is characterized by long, wide, deep stances, "large frame" movements and explosive power (fa jin) nestled in among the softer movements.

Some important figures in the history of Chen taijiquan:

Chen Bu. The earliest origins of Chen taijiquan can be traced back to Chen Bu, who lived in the 1300s. It was Chen Bu who established what is now known today as the birthplace of taijiquan, Chen Village (Chenjiagou). It is not clear what martial arts styles or influences Chen Bu brought to the table, only that his martial arts planted the seed for taijiquan in Chen Village.

Chen Wangting. It wasn't until the ninth generation that the martial art of Chen Village was codified into what we know today as Chen taijiquan. For all intents and purposes, Chen Wangting (1580-1660) can be considered the founder of Chen taijiquan.

Chen Changxing. The modern taijiquan world perhaps owes the biggest thanks to Chen Changxing (1771-1853), for it was he who broke with Chen family tradition and took on an outsider, Yang Luchan, as a disciple. Yang Luchan (1799-1872) went on to found Yang style taijiquan, and the rest is history.

Chen Fake. Another member who broke with Chen family tradition, Chen Fake (1887-1957) began openly teaching to the public, ushering Chen taijiquan into the 20th century and introducing it to the world.

Chen Zhenglei. For more on Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei (1949-) please read his profile on this website.

Master Wang Haijun in the
Chen taiji posture Lan Zha Yi
(Lazily Tying the Coat).

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Copyright © 2010-2012 Silk Reeling, Sun Tai Chi Institute of Boston LLC™, Stanwood Chang