Yang Style Tai Chi

The following structured curriculum or learning path is one way to learn Yang Style Tai Chi. Many schools have their own learning paths and some only focus on 1 form or 2 at the most. Other schools introduce combat aspects such as self defense and Push Hands. While others go a step further and teach different styles of Tai Chi under one school such as Chen Style, Yang Style, Wu Style, and so on.

It is not required to learn all these forms. If you are interested in learning only 1 form, you can just focus on learning that particular one. Most beginners start with the 24 Step Form because it is what most schools will teach but you can start learning any form, there is no hard rule.

THE 8 STEP FORM

An introductory form, the 8 step form was developed in 1999 by the Chinese National Sports Commission. It is also known as the 10 form if you count the opening and closing steps. It introduces you to the signature moves of the Yang Style and is a great starting point for the 24 step form. It does not require a lot of space to practice and can be performed in small places at home or in the office.

THE 24 STEP FORM

Perhaps the most well known and most popular form around the world is the 24 step form, also known as the Simplified form, Peking form or Beijing form. It was developed by the Chinese National Sports Commission in 1956 by four Tai Chi experts. They were commissioned to create a standardized form from the traditional Family Style Yang forms. Many Tai Chi schools focus on only teaching this form.

THE 88 STEP FORM

The traditional form of Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan also known as the Yang Family Long form is the source from which all other variations of Yang forms originate from. Developed sometime in the mid-1800’s the form can be broken down into 108 steps, 88 steps or 87 steps depending on how the forms are counted. The Long form requires more space to practice and a lot more time to learn and master. It is a great form to practice outside or in a nearby park.

THE 32 STEP SWORD FORM

Derived from the Yang Family Sword Form it was developed in 1957 by the Chinese National Sports Commission. It introduces beginner and intermediate students to the sword techniques before learning the traditional Yang Family Sword Form. This form requires a lot of space to learn and practice.

THE 52 STEP FAN FORM

Developed in 2001 by Professor Li Deyin, the fan is a popular form that many students enjoy learning. It requires space and can be practiced outdoors.