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Wu Style

What is Wu Style?‍

Wu Style is one of the five major styles of Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan), known for its unique characteristics and approach to the practice. It was founded by Wu Quanyou (1834–1902) and further developed by his son, Wu Jianquan (1870–1942). Wu Style emphasizes small, compact movements and a distinctive forward-leaning posture, making it different from other styles such as Yang and Chen.

Key features of Wu Style Tai Chi include:

  1. Small, Compact Movements: The movements in Wu Style are generally smaller and more contained compared to other styles. This makes the practice more subtle and refined, focusing on internal energy (qi) and precise control.
  2. Forward-Leaning Posture: Wu Style is known for its characteristic forward-leaning stance, where the body weight is often shifted slightly forward. This posture helps to improve balance and stability while promoting a sense of groundedness.
  3. Focus on Internal Energy: Like other Tai Chi styles, Wu Style places a strong emphasis on the cultivation and flow of internal energy (qi). The small, precise movements are designed to enhance the practitioner's ability to feel and direct this energy.
  4. Gentle, Smooth Transitions: Movements in Wu Style are performed in a gentle, smooth, and continuous manner, without sudden changes in speed or direction. This helps to promote relaxation and mental clarity.
  5. Emphasis on Balance and Coordination: The practice of Wu Style Tai Chi helps to improve balance, coordination, and overall body awareness. The small movements and forward-leaning posture require careful attention to alignment and weight distribution.
  6. Health Benefits: Regular practice of Wu Style Tai Chi can improve flexibility, strength, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being. It is also known for its stress-relieving and meditative benefits.

Wu Style Tai Chi is practiced in various forms, with the most common being the traditional long form, which consists of 108 movements. There are also shorter forms and simplified versions that are more accessible to beginners.

Overall, Wu Style Tai Chi offers a unique approach to the practice, with its focus on small, subtle movements and internal energy cultivation. It is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, providing a holistic practice that promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

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

Always remember that the true meaning of Budo is that soft overcomes hard, small overcomes large.
Mas Oyama

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