Combat pit official logo black
Back to Glossary
Home
Search
Martial Arts Culture and History
Gear and Equipment
Personalities
Skill Development
Mind and Body Connection
Weapons and Traditional Tools
Martial arts map
Complete blog posts directory
Contact

Chen Style

What is Chen Style?‍

Chen Style is the oldest and one of the most traditional styles of Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan), originating from the Chen Village (Chenjiagou) in Henan Province, China. It was founded by Chen Wangting (1580–1660), a 9th generation member of the Chen family. Chen Style Tai Chi is known for its unique combination of slow, meditative movements and fast, explosive actions, making it distinct from other Tai Chi styles.

Key characteristics of Chen Style Tai Chi include:

  1. Silk Reeling (Chan Si Jing): This refers to the spiraling, circular movements that are a hallmark of Chen Style. These movements help to develop internal energy (qi) and improve coordination and fluidity.
  2. Alternating Speed and Power: Unlike other Tai Chi styles that maintain a consistent slow pace, Chen Style incorporates sudden bursts of speed and power (fa jin) within its forms. These explosive movements are used to develop martial power and agility.
  3. Low Stances and Large Postures: Practitioners often use low stances and large, expansive postures, which help to build strength, flexibility, and stability.
  4. Emphasis on Martial Applications: Chen Style retains a strong focus on its martial roots, with many movements designed for practical self-defense applications. This includes techniques such as strikes, kicks, joint locks, and throws.
  5. Complex Forms: The forms in Chen Style can be quite complex and physically demanding, often requiring a high level of coordination and strength. The most well-known forms are the Old Frame (Laojia) and the New Frame (Xinjia).
  6. Integration of Breathing and Movement: Proper breathing techniques are integrated with the movements to enhance the flow of qi and improve overall health.

Chen Style Tai Chi is practiced both for its health benefits and its effectiveness as a martial art. It is known to improve balance, strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health, while also promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Because of its complexity and physical demands, it is often recommended for those who have some experience with Tai Chi or other martial arts, although beginners can also learn it with proper instruction and dedication.

Related Article: The Graceful Power of Tai Chi: Exploring the Ancient Chinese Martial Art

Jiu-Jitsu is just an excuse Brazilians came up with to hug people for a few hours a day.
Rayron Gracie

Check out the latest blogs

See all articles

Other Glossary terms

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Centerline Theory
Centerline Theory is a fundamental concept in Wing Chun, as well as in other martial arts, that emphasizes the importance of controlling the central axis of the body during combat.
C
Sun Style
Sun Style is one of the five major styles of Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan), known for its unique combination of Tai Chi, Xingyiquan, and Baguazhang elements.
S
Striking
Striking in the context of martial arts and combat sports refers to the use of various techniques to hit an opponent using different parts of the body.
S
Wing Chun Stance
The Wing Chun stance, also known as "Yee Jee Kim Yeung Ma" or "Character Two Adduction Stance," is a fundamental aspect of Wing Chun Kung Fu.
W
Feints
Feints are deceptive maneuvers used in various sports and martial arts to mislead an opponent and create openings for effective attacks.
F
Kesho-mawashi
Kesho-mawashi is a ceremonial apron worn by sumo wrestlers during specific formal occasions, such as the ring-entering ceremony (dohyō-iri) that takes place before official matches.
K
Kenjutsu
Kenjutsu is a traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on the techniques of swordsmanship.
K
Kyū
In the context of Kyudo, the Japanese martial art of archery, Kyū (級) refers to the ranking system used to measure the proficiency and skill level of practitioners.
K
Wai Kru Ram Muay
Wai Kru Ram Muay is a traditional pre-fight ritual performed by Muay Thai fighters. It is a form of respect and homage to their trainers, ancestors, and the sport itself.
W
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling and ground fighting techniques.
B
Kyudo
Kyudo is the Japanese martial art of archery, which translates to "the way of the bow." It is deeply rooted in the traditions of Japanese culture and combines physical, mental, and spiritual elements.
K
Suri-ashi
Suri-ashi is a fundamental footwork technique used in various Japanese martial arts, including Kendo, Iaido, and Aikido. The term "suri-ashi" translates to "sliding feet" or "gliding step."
S
Grappling
Grappling is a term used in martial arts and combat sports to describe techniques that involve manipulating an opponent through holds, locks, throws, and ground control, rather than striking.
G
Chikara-Mizu
Chikara-mizu, which translates to "power water," is a ritual practice in sumo wrestling that involves wrestlers rinsing their mouths with water before entering the ring for a match.
C
Shaolin Kung Fu
Shaolin Kung Fu, also known as Shaolin Wushu, is a traditional Chinese martial art that originated from the Shaolin Monastery in Henan Province, China.
S
No Items Found