Martial (Self-Defence) Applications
Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan) is an internal martial art embodying combat and self-defence techniques.
The postures of the Chen and Yang Styles of Taijiquan have martial applications for combat and self-defence purposes. Every posture has at least 1 of the 8 Gates / 8 Energies, which is one of the principal concepts of Taijiquan, dominating the movement.
Each of the 8 Gates has a martial energy and it’s application consists of different degrees of yin and yang.
The 8 Gates are:
1. Peng (Ward Off)
2. Lu (Roll Back)
3. Ji (Press)
4. An (Push)
5. Cai (Pull Down)
6. Lie (Split)
7. Zhou (Elbow)
8. Kao (Shoulder)
Push Hands (Tui Shou)
Also known as Sticking Hands, it teaches the application of movements involving the four directions (Peng, Lu, Ji, and An) and is a rhythmic, non-competitive practice between two people, with the aim of being sensitive to your partner’s energy, intention and movement.
This allows you to use their strengths to your advantage. It is the motion of absorbing energy and re-applying. The movement is continuous and fluid with no starts or stops. It’s called “Sticking Hands” because you never lose contact with each other.
Chin Na (Seize and Lock)
Chin Na is a set of joint locking techniques used to control or lock an opponent’s joints or muscles/tendons so that they cannot move. Thus neutralising the opponent’s fighting ability.
