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What Is Tai Chi?

Updated: Apr 29

Tai Chi, which is short for Tai Chi Chuan or Taiji Quan is an internal Chinese martial art learned by men and women of all ages and levels of physical ability.


The term 'Taiji' is a Chinese cosmological concept referencing the flux of Yin & Yang (balance of opposing forces) and 'Quan' meaning fist.


The IWKA Taiji System as taught at the Schools of Kung Fu Blue Mountains is based on the Three Pillars of Yang Tai Chi that Schools of Kung Fu & IWKA founder Sifu Sergio Iadarola studied and mastered to make available for you to continue your Tai Chi journey together with us.


The 1st Pillar of Tai Chi explores the complete teachings of the late Grandmaster Huang Shen Shyan under several of his students in Taiwan, Singapore and New Zealand, including the Huang Taiji Loosening Exercises, his 37 postures form, "The Melting Man" Zhan Zhuang (standing-post-meditation) and all two-men push-hand sets.


The 2nd Pillar of Tai Chi reveals the teachings of Sifu Sam Tam, including the advanced 37 Postures Form and 'The Balloon Man' Zhan Zhuang which is the engine used to cultivate the internal force which drives the advanced form.


The 3rd Pillar of Tai Chi offers the comprehensive teachings of the Tian Zhaolin lineage under the grandson of the Late Grandmaster Tian Zhaolin, Sifu Tian Bing Yuan in Shanghai, including the Yang Style Baduanjin (Eight Silken Movements) Qigong Form, the 88 Movements Small Frame & Middle Frame Forms and the San Shou Form (64 Sparring Movements).


The practice of Tai Chi primarily involves three phases of training; Health; Focusing on improving concentration and relieving physical stress on the body & mind. Meditation; The cultivation of calmness and focus is essential in maintaining optimal health and well-being. Martial Art; For those interested in testing their skill and understanding of the system. 


Tai Chi also encompasses 5 aspects of training;

Talou (solo hand training),

Neigong and Quigong (breathing, movement and awareness exercises and meditation),

Tuishou (response drills),

Sanshou (self-defense techniques).

While Tai Chi is a martial art with a great depth of knowledge and skill, it can be easy to learn and soon delivers its health benefits. For many, its practice becomes a lifelong journey.


You will find our students and instructors welcoming and helpful to new members wishing to improve their health and lifestyle.


No matter your size, age, gender, fitness level or previous experience, at Schools of Kung Fu Blue Mountains, our friendly team of instructors and students will help and support you in unlocking the potential of your 'Body, Mind & Energy'.

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