HISTORY OF RooT Fx TAI CHI

The major styles of Tai Chi, despite their differences, all adhere to the principles of yin and yang to optimize body efficiency with minimal effort. The Yang style, particularly renowned for its health benefits, meditation, and self-defense, stands as the most popular Tai Chi style globally today.

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Yang Style was initially developed by Yang Lu Chan (also known as Yan Fu-k’ui) in the early 1800s. Passionate about martial arts, Yang trained under several masters. After being defeated by a descendant of the Chen village, he became eager to learn this softer style. The story of his learning varies: one version suggests that Yang went to the Chen Village in 1820 to study under Chen Chang-xing but faced unfair treatment due to not being a family member. Another version has him pretending to be a beggar and fainting at a Chen Elder’s door, leading to his rescue and acceptance as a servant.

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In both stories, Yang overheard teachings at night and secretly watched Master Chen instructing his disciples. He practiced in his room each night. According to one version, Chen eventually challenged Yang to spar with the other disciples, who could not defeat him. Alternatively, Yang was caught spying but was spared because Chen saw his potential and decided to teach him the Chen family secrets.

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After completing his studies, Yang returned home to teach. His style, known as Yang Style or the Soft/Neutralizing Style, was recognized for its gentle movements capable of neutralizing an opponent’s power. Yang traveled across the country, challenging and defeating renowned martial artists, earning the nickname Yang the Invincible or Unbeatable Yang. His style gained prominence when he was hired by the Chinese Imperial family in 1850 to teach Tai Chi to the Elite Palace Battalion of the Imperial Guards, a position he likely held until his death.

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In the early 1900s, Yang’s grandson, Yang Cheng Fu, began modifying the family style. He preferred large postures, more suited for health applications than the smaller, martial-oriented ones. He believed stances could be high, medium, or low but should always be extended, open, and relaxed. The resulting Yang Long Form, characterized by its 108 movements, even tempo, and slow, graceful, circular movements, emerged from these modifications. Yang Cheng Fu also created an abridged version for easier teaching to modern students with busy lives.

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Yang Cheng Fu was the first Tai Chi Master to share family secrets with the public. His gentle nature attracted many students, popularizing the style throughout China. Today, many of Yang’s descendants continue to teach. His third son, Yang Zhen Duo, founded the International Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan Association in October 1998. In July 2009, Grandmaster Yang Zhen Duo officially named his grandson, Yang Jun, as the Fifth Lineage Holder of Traditional Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan.

Given the history of the various Tai Chi styles, it is clear why numerous variations exist within any given style. Over the years and generations, many practitioners have made modifications based on their research, experiences, and needs. Consequently, it is impossible to determine which family or form is most effective. The best choice depends on your goals and enjoyment.