Taijiquan is a traditional Chinese martial art, incorporating strikes with all parts of the body, throwing, grappling and joint-locking techniques. It is an excellent way to get fit since regular practice increases stamina, strength, power and flexibility. It is a suitable form of self-defence for all, male and female, young and old. You can do as much or as little in class as you feel comfortable with.

Taijiquan trains unified whole body movement for both attack and defence, yin and yang, and when possible both simultaneously. The aim is to evade the attacking force, yin, whilst simultaneously counter attacking, yang. Unified body mechanics produce maximum power in attack and in fast responsive evasion. In this way yin and yin balance to become taijiquan – ‘yin yang boxing’.

The pushing hands styles of Seven Stars, Nine Castles and Four Directions train attacking, yang, and defensive, yin, balanced footwork and stances in responsive conjunction with the opponent or partner. Repeated practise trains the correct defending and attacking postures and positions and gives you the sensitivity required to anticipate attacks and instantly respond with a counter-attack.

Freestyle pushing hands teaches you to control an attacker and disrupt their balance. It is also a practical test of your ability to remain calm and composed and apply the principles of taiji.

Applications apply taiji styles to more realistic self-defence situations.

Those who want to can test their skills under the even more realistic conditions of moving-step pushing hands, wrestling and sparring.

The hand form acts as a warm down and stretch, increasing the strength and range of motion of all the body’s joints and laying the foundation for the realisation of its physical potential, as well as protecting against injuries and improving posture and composure.

Advanced students can learn weapon forms and Nei Gung, internal strength exercises, which improve co-ordination, develop power and strengthen the body.

By learning to move in a relaxed way while under fear of assault your ability both to attack and to defend increases. Increased physical confidence leads to mental confidence. The legendary health benefits of taijiquan come when your ability to relax under pressure becomes part of your daily life.

Nothing speaks the truth
Nothing tells us how things really are
Nothing forces us to know
What we do not want to know
Except pain
And this is how the Gods declare their love
Truth comes with pain

Aeschylus, The Oresteia
Ted Hughes