Traditional Chen Family Taijiquan, Cambridge

Bare Hand Forms

19 Step Short Form
This short form was created by Grandmaster Chen Xiao Wang as an introduction to the Chen family skill. It is based on the Laojia (Old Frame) long form and introduces the basic postures and techniques.

25 Step Short Form
The 25 step form originates from Master Michael Tse’s first Chen teacher, Grandmaster Fung,who learned his skill from Chen Fa Ke (18th Generation Standard bearer and grandfather to Grandmaster Chen Xiao Wang.)

This form is based on the Xinjia (New Frame) and introduces the student to tighter spirals and more explosive use of power.

38 Step Short Form
Created by Grandmaster Chen Xiao Wang this is based on movements from both the Laojia and Xinjia forms

Long Form

Laojia and Xinjia

The Laojia (Old Frame) was created by Chen Chang Xing(14th Generation). The Xinjia (New Frame) was created by Chen Fa Ke (18th generation). Both long forms develop the Chen Taiji skill and mastery provides a good basis for pushing hands. the Xinjia is slightly longer and contains more spiralling movements and more Fajing (release of power) than the Laojia.

Cannon Fist

Laojia Pao Chui and Xinjia Pao Chui

There are both Old and New frame versions of this form. As with the long form the Xinjia version is longer, contains more spiralling and more fajing. These forms were created to develop the fighting side of Taijiquan.

Weapons Forms

Broadsword
Old frame (Laojia)
The broadsword form contains the 13 basic sword techniques and is very easy to learn. Traditionally it was said that to master the broadsword would take 100 days whilst the straight sword would take 1000. Designed as a battlefield weapon it contains many chopping and slashing movements.

New Frame (Xinjia)
This more modern adaptation takes the broadsword further by applying the Xinjia principles to it. This form is much longer than the Laojia version and allows for more spiralling movements and more advanced techniques.

Straightsword

The straightsword form is longer than both the Broadsword forms and is a more intricate weapon. This is said to be one of the oldest forms within the Chen Family Taijiquan.