International Shuai Chiao Association Headquarters

Chang Tai Chi Chuan

To be brief, Tai Chi Chuan, usually just referred to as Tai Chi, is a slow relaxing exercise. Sometimes called Meditation In Motion. The slow deliberate movements are beneficial in promoting strength, balance, and general health. Being low impact, it is a very good exercise for all ages. Tai Chi is based on the opposing forces of Yin and Yang. The Chinese believe it is a method for cultivating the Chi, or Life Energy. There are many websites that can give more detailed explanations than is possible here.

The most popular style of Tai Chi is the Yang style. When Chang Tung-Sheng was in the National Academy, he became friends with General Li Chin-Ling. General Li was one of the most prominent Tai Chi Masters in China. Chang taught Li Shuai Chiao, and Li taught Chang Yang Tai Chi. Over the years, Chang started to modify the Tai Chi movements. He felt they were too flowery and were no longer effective in self defense. He simplified and corrected the form to be more combat oriented while still maintaining the original health benefits.