
Presenter: Chen Zhonghua Length: 52 mins Difficulty: 3/5 Language: English  
Year: 2025 Location: Edmonton, Canada



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by Ming on 2025/10/20
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Master Chen’s teachings on Taiji center on the sophisticated use of pivots and levers within the body, a concept he refers to as “switching” rather than moving. The core principle is akin to a train operator skillfully changing tracks to redirect a train’s power and speed without altering its own engine. Instead of a gross shift in the body’s center of gravity, which Master Chen views as inefficient, the practitioner learns to utilize three vertical lines—one central and two on either side of the torso—as internal fulcrums for a human lever. |
| This allows them to switch the pivot point to gain a mechanical advantage, either prioritizing speed and range (like placing a lever’s pivot closer to the force) or power and stability (by moving the pivot closer to the load). By mastering this internal leveraging system, one can maintain a stable, unmoving core while seamlessly applying force and changing direction, much like a train maintaining its steady momentum while being redirected by the track switch to a new destination. | |
| (This is an edited transcript of a mini lesson Switching in the Positive Circle filmed in 2014, Berlin, Germany.) |
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by Ming on 2025/10/02
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The Positive Circle, a foundational element of Chen Style Taiji, is a dynamic sequence that taps into your body’s innate potential through three essential phases: In with Elbow, Turn with Waist, and Out with Hand. These movements are further divided into two distinct halves—one emphasizing pulling, the other pushing. Though deceptively simple at first glance, they hold the key to unlocking Taiji’s profound power and subtle elegance. Mastering the Positive Circle is not merely about physical movement; it’s about discovering a deeper harmony between intention, energy, and flow. |
| Master Chen applied these principles to dissect the Yilu form, the fundamental sequence of Chen Style Tai Chi. By analyzing each movement through the lens of hand-foot connections (手脚相连) and the concept of switching, practitioners gain profound insights into the underlying mechanics and energy flow. This understanding, supported by simple mechanical models, not only refines technical skill but also fosters a deeper connection between body and mind. | |
| (This is an edited transcript of the Hand-Foot Connections filmed in Oct, 2010, Edmonton, Canada.) |
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