Wu Style Tai Chi Chuan
Tai Chi Chuan is a traditional Chinese internal martial art practiced for centuries for health and self-defense. Rooted in the Daoist principle of yin and yang, it asks us to observe nature and become more attuned to the natural flow of life. Practice begins with awareness and relaxation in the body and learning to become quieter within. Tai Chi is often described as “meditation in motion.”
Boulder Kung Fu Academy teaches Wu Style Tai Chi Chuan. Students begin with the 108-movement Long Form, or Gah Gee, practiced slowly and with increasing relaxation. As movement, breathing and attention become unified, qi and blood circulate more freely throughout the body. Traditionally, this is understood to strengthen the internal organs, tendons, ligaments and muscles while supporting balance and physical and mental health.
Partner practice
Tai Chi is a relational art.
Although many people practice Tai Chi primarily for health, it is inherently martial in nature. Its soft and yielding movements are understood in relationship to force—receiving it, following its direction and redirecting it rather than answering force with force.
Students begin with the Wu Style Long Form, but the form alone cannot reveal the complete practice. After completing the first form, students begin partner work. Solo practice introduces the movements; working with another person reveals where balance, alignment, timing, sensitivity and relaxation need further development.
Through partner practice, the principles of yin and yang become something students can feel and understand directly. The work is introduced gradually and can be practiced gently. At advanced stages, the same principles make Tai Chi an effective martial art.
Class format
Individual instruction within the group.
Students train together and may spend part of class practicing the same material, but they should not expect a follow-along format. Each student may be working at a different place in the curriculum. Sifu Wang works with students individually within the group and introduces new material according to each student’s progress.
Tai Chi classes meet twice a week, and students are required to attend both classes. Because the curriculum is sequential and each class builds upon previous instruction, drop-in participation is not offered. Students are also expected to practice between classes.
Tai Chi at the Academy
Wu Style Tai Chi Chuan.
Interested in training?
Begin with an observation.
Prospective students begin by requesting an observation. Sifu Wang reviews each request and, when appropriate, schedules a time to speak and meet. The meeting may include observing part of a regular class.