Chen Tai Chi

Chen Tai Chi is an internal martial art, where the body moves in a relaxed yet powerful way, using coiling movements, an aligned structure and body mechanics to generate, absorb and redirect power. The style includes fajin, known as energy release, with some movements being performed fast. The signature of Chen Tai Chi is the silk reeling spirals, the foundation of every movement. These are practised in drills and exercises unilaterally on each side of the body, before being applied to the empty hand forms, weapons and push hands.

Chen style Tai Chi originates from the Chen Village (Chen Jia Gou) in China, dating from around 600 years ago. Chen is a family name in Chinese, with the style of Tai Chi belonging to the Chen family. It is seen as the mother of contemporary Tai Chi, with the styles Yang, Wu and Sun drawing influence from the Chen family. Find out more about the historical lineage of Chen style Tai Chi.

expansion & compression of the joints
loosen the joint spaces
lengthen & elasticise the connective tissue
soften & release muscular tension
relaxation of the nervous system
align the posture & structure
whole body coordination
focused concentration
boost brain health
mind intent
develop body sensitivity
healthy distraction
focus on the present
strengthen through integrated muscle contraction
develop balance & stability
improve knee & lower back health
reduce strain on the body
flush toxins
diaphragmatic breathing
increase blood flow
learn a life long skill
open the meridian channels
balance yin yang

Our Classes

Instructor Nicola studies and teaches the forms of Grand Master Chen Zhenglei. Her teachers have studied within the lineage or are lineage holders. Nicola helps students progress through the traditional principles of Chen style silk reeling and the empty hand forms, teaching through a hands-on method rather than ‘watch and follow‘. Lessons start with traditional Chen warm up exercises that loosen every major joint in the body. Next a Qigong breathing session, focusing on relaxation, softening the body, lowering the heart rate and slowing the breath. Progressing to ‘Standing Practice’ (Zhan Zhuang), a static Qigong posture as a meditation and stillness exercise. Moving onto Silk Reeling Drills, the signature movement of Chen style and then the main content of her lessons covers the empty hand form. Study in private tuition or in group classes. Find out more by clicking the graphics below.