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Sun Style

What is 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. It was founded by Sun Lutang (1861–1932), a renowned martial artist who was well-versed in multiple internal martial arts. Sun Style is characterized by its smooth, flowing movements, high stances, and emphasis on agile steps, making it accessible and beneficial for practitioners of all ages and fitness levels.

Key features of Sun Style Tai Chi include:

  1. Smooth, Flowing Movements: The movements in Sun Style are performed in a continuous, smooth, and flowing manner, promoting relaxation and internal energy (qi) flow.
  2. High Stances: Unlike some other styles that use lower stances, Sun Style typically employs higher stances. This makes the practice more accessible and less physically demanding, especially for older adults or those with limited mobility.
  3. Agile Steps: Sun Style is known for its distinctive "follow-step" or "advance-step" technique, where one foot follows the other in a coordinated manner. This stepping method enhances agility, balance, and coordination.
  4. Combination of Internal Martial Arts: Sun Lutang integrated principles and techniques from Xingyiquan and Baguazhang into his Tai Chi practice. This fusion results in a style that emphasizes both internal energy cultivation and practical self-defense applications.
  5. Emphasis on Relaxation and Internal Energy: Like other Tai Chi styles, Sun Style focuses on relaxation, proper breathing, and the cultivation of internal energy (qi). The smooth and continuous movements help to harmonize the body and mind.
  6. Health Benefits: Regular practice of Sun Style Tai Chi can improve balance, flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. It is also known for its stress-relieving and meditative benefits, promoting overall well-being.
  7. Forms and Sequences: Sun Style includes various forms and sequences, with the most well-known being the Sun Style 97-move long form. There are also shorter forms and simplified versions that are more accessible to beginners.

Sun Style Tai Chi is appreciated for its gentle and graceful movements, making it an excellent choice for individuals seeking a low-impact exercise that promotes physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. Its unique combination of internal martial arts principles also provides a rich and comprehensive practice for those interested in the deeper aspects of Tai Chi.

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

If you do not overcome your tendency to give up easily, your life leads to nothing.
Mas Oyama

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