Various Tai Chi Forms

I've been interested in tai chi for many years now and in my study of it I've collected a number of books and a few videos on the subject. In order to help out people looking for some information, I thought I'd list the postures in different forms. Descriptions of the moves will not be given because this page is not meant to teach you the forms. If you're interested in something, I have referenced the books I copied them from so try to find those books or a video of the form (I know at least some of these are on VHS and/or DVD) for more information. And of course, it's best to learn from a good teacher. I will however try to include a few notes about the forms, primarily paraphrased from the books referenced. There are probably other forms on the web, but I'm not going to list everything I can possibly find. For now, I plan to stick to the forms in books and videos I own. I've also tried to stick with what appear to be either traditional or standardized forms. I do have some other forms in my books though, so if you're looking for something in particular, feel free to write and ask. I don't have a huge tai chi library though, so I can't guarantee anything.

Oh, and before you ask, no, I cannot do all of these forms. So far, the only one I was actually taught is a Yang style long form which appears to be essentially the same as the 88 posture form listed here, but with some generally minor changes. I originally tried to teach myself the Cheng Man Ching form from a book, then the simplified 24 posture form from a combination of TV programs and books, and the 48 posture form from a video and books, but after taking real martial arts classes and learning the Yang long form, I've basically focused only on that. I might try to pick up one of the shorter forms again just to have something quick to practice when I don't feel like doing my usual long form. Since I've now had instruction in the Yang long form, picking up another form that is primarily based in it might not be so difficult. I haven't really tried yet. However, I am taking a look into learning a sword form or two -- having something new to practice may encourage me to practice more often (I have a tendency to practice on and off in phases).

Quick Links: Simplified 24 Posture Form, Competition 42 Posture Form, Combined 48 Posture Form, 88 Posture Form, Cheng Man Ching 37 Posture Form, Yang Style Competition Form, Chen Style Competition Form, Wu Style Competition Form, Sun Style Competition Form, Chen's First Lu, Chen's Second Lu, Wu/Hao Style Form, Taiji Fighting Set, Taiji Sword

The 24 Posture Form

Copied from Simplified "Taijiquan" revised edition, compiled and translated by China Sports Magazine, published by People's Sports Publishing House of China. Also in Tai Chi Chuan, 24 & 48 Postures with Martial Applications by Liang, Shou-Yu and Wu, Wen-Ching, published by YMAA Publication Center.

This apparently goes by many names including Peking/Beijing Form, Simplified Tai Chi, Chinese National 24 Form Taiji, and probably other similar names. It was developed in 1956 and is based on the most popular sequences of the Yang style, arranged in increasing difficulty. As one of Dr. Paul Lam's articles (The Combined 42 Forms), notes, the four sections (my book has eight, so I guess he paired them up) are arranged very logically -- the first has gentle stretching of the limbs, the second has more stretching and turning with Grasp the Bird's Tail as the theme of the form, the third has the climax with the most difficult moves like heel kicks, and the fourth has technically difficult but less physically demanding moves and slower, winding down movements to finish. It is performed at a slow, even pace and can be completed in approximately 4-6 minutes.

Section 1

1. Commencing Form
2. Part Wild Horse's Mane on Both Sides
3. White Crane Flashes Its Wings

Section 2

4. Brush Knee on Both Sides
5. Strum the Lute
6. Curve Back Arms on Both Sides

Section 3

7. Grasp the Bird's Tail -- Left Style
8. Grasp the Bird's Tail -- Right Style

Section 4

9. Single Whip
10. Wave Hands Like Clouds -- Left Style
11. Single Whip

Section 5

12. High Pat on Horse
13. Kick with Right Heel
14. Strike Opponent's Ears with Both Fists
15. Turn and Kick with Left Heel

Section 6

16. Push Down and Stand on One Leg -- Left Style
17. Push Down and Stand on One Leg -- Right Style

Section 7

18. Work at Shuttles on Both Sides
19. Needle at Sea Bottom
20. Flash Arm

Section 8

21. Turn to Deflect Downward, Parry and Punch
22. Apparent Close-up
23. Cross Hands
24. Closing Form

The 42 Posture Competition Form

Copied from The Dao of Taijiquan, Way to Rejuvenation by Jou, Tsung Hwa, published by Tai Chi Foundation.

This form was developed in 1989 and is based on the Yang style, but also includes moves and components from the other major styles (Chen, Wu, Sun) as well as techniques from Push Hands practice. For more information about this form, try the articles by Dr. Paul Lam, Siu-Fong Evans, and Simon Watson in Longfei Taijiquan newsletters 2000 Volume 3 Issue 1 and 2001 Volume 4 Issue 1 (apparently no longer online). The first section shows technique and style by opening with Grasp the Sparrow's Tail while again gently stretching the limbs as in the 24 posture form, the second opens with the Sun style's classic Opening and Closing posture and ends with the first climax using the Chen style's Cover with Hand and Punch with Fist and Parting Wild Horse's Mane, the third starts with easier moves immediately following the first climax then more difficult movements, the fourth contains the second climax with moves like Body Thrust with Half Horse Stance, Turn Body with Full Roll Back and Hold and Punch in Crossed Squatting Stance using some easier moves to wind down and finish.

Section 1

1. Commencing
2. Right Grasp Sparrow's Tail
3. Left Single Whip
4. Lift Hand
5. White Crane Spreads Wings
6. Brush Knee and Step Forward (2)
7. Sidle and Punch
8. Roll-back and Press Posture
9. Step Forward, Deflect Downward, Intercept and Punch
10. Withdraw and Push

Section 2

11. Open and Close Hands
12. Right Single Whip
13. Fist Under Elbow
14. Turn Body and Push (2)
15. Fair Lady Works at Shuttles (2)
16. Right and Left Heel Kicks
17. Hidden Hand Upper Arm Rolls Punch
18. Mustang Ruffles Its Mane (2)

Section 3

19. Cloud Hands (3)
20. Stand Up and Hit Tiger
21. Separate Right Foot
22. Strike Ears with Both Hands
23. Separate Left Foot
24. Turn Around and Tap Right Foot
25. Step Up and Punch Downward
26. Diagonal Flying Posture
27. Single Whip Downward Posture
28. Golden Pheasant Stands with One Leg (2)
29. Withdraw Step and Thrust Left Palm

Section 4

30. Empty Step and Pressing Palm
31. Lift Right Leg and Right Palm Up
32. Left Shoulder Strike with Horse Stance
33. Turn Body and Strike with Hand
34. Capture and Punch in an Empty Step
35. Thrust Palm and Sweep Down
36. Step Up to Form the Seven Stars of the Dipper
37. Step Back to Ride the Tiger
38. Turn Around and Sweep Lotus with One Leg
39. Shoot Tiger with Bow
40. Left Grasp Sparrow's Tail
41. Cross Hands
42. Conclusion of the Form

The (Combined) 48 Posture Form

Copied from Taiji Boxing in 48 Forms, by China Sports, published by Hai Feng Publishing Company. Also in Tai Chi Chuan, 24 & 48 Postures with Martial Applications by Liang, Shou-Yu and Wu, Wen-Ching, published by YMAA Publication Center.

This form was developed in 1976 and is based on the Yang style, but also includes moves and components from the other major styles (Chen, Wu, Sun) as well as techniques from Push Hands practice. Generally peformed slowly in the usual Yang style, some moves are performed quickly. The first section stresses basic hand and foot movements particularly in Stroke and Push, the second involves flexible changes in movements of body and legs with Turn to Push Palms as the focus, the third has the first climax with many rises and falls and body turns with Pat Foot to Subdue the Tiger as the focus, the fourth centers around Kick with Right Heel, the fifth focuses on Work at Shuttles on Both Sides, both of the last two moves requiring balance, suppleness, and coordination, the sixth contains the second climax and a great variety of hand forms, stances, and body movements focusing on the two forms of Turn Body with Big Strokes and Turn Body for a Lotus Leg Swing. It is a development of the simplified 24 posture form and retains all the movments of that form (some with slight modifications) while maintaining a good balance between left and right style postures. The form can be completed in approximately 8-10 minutes.

• Commencing Form

Section 1

1. The White Crane Flashes Its Wings
2. Brush Knee and Twist Step on Left
3. Single Whip -- Left Style
4. Hand Strums the Lute -- Left Style
5. Stroke and Push
6. Turn to Strike, Parry and Punch -- Left Style
7. Fend Off, Stroke, Push and Press -- Left Style

Section 2

8. Lean Obliquely
9. Punch Under Elbow
10. Step Back and Whirl Arms on Both Sides
11. Turn in Push Palms
12. Hand Strums the Lute -- Right Style
13. Brush Knee and Punch Downward

Section 3

14. The White Snake Puts Out Its Tongue
15. Pat Foot to Subdue the Tiger
16. Turn to Left to Strike
17. Thread Palm on Crouch Step
18. Fend Off on One Leg
19. Single Whip -- Right Style

Section 4

20. Wave Hands Like Clouds -- Right Style
21. Part the Horse's Mand on Both Sides
22. High Pat on Horse
23. Kick with Right Heel
24. Strike Opponent's Ears with Both Fists
25. Kick with Left Heel
26. Strike with Hidden Fist
27. Needle at Sea Bottom
28. Flash the Arm

Section 5

29. Kick with Right and Left Feet
30. Brush Knee on Left and Right Bow Steps
31. Step Forward to Strike
32. Apparent Close-Up
33. Wave Hands Like Clouds -- Left Style
34. Turn to the Right to Strike
35. Work at Shuttles on Both Sides
36. Step Back and Thread Palm

Section 6

37. Press Down Palms on Empty Step
38. Stand on One Leg and Hold Out Palm
39. Push Forearm on Horse-riding Step
40. Turn Body with Big Strokes
41. Swing Palm on Crouch Step
42. Step Forward to Cross Fists
43. Stand on One Leg to Mount the Tiger
44. Turn Body for a Lotus Leg Swing
45. Draw a Bow to Shoot the Tiger
46. Turn to Strike, Parry and Punch -- Right Style
47. Fend Off, Stroke, Push and Press -- Right Style
48. Cross Hands

• Closing Form

The 88 Posture Form

Copied from Taijiquan in 88 Forms revised edition, Chinese Kung-Fu Series 2, compiled by Victor Wu, translated by Huang Jun, published by Hai Feng Publishing Company.

Apparently this is a standardized version of the traditional Yang style long form. Other books I own contain essentially the same form: The Dao of Taijiquan by Jou, Tsung Hwa and Taijiquan, Classical Yang Style by Yang, Jwing-Ming. It seems that it's essentially just the grouping of postures that changes the number of them in the form. The form I learned in classes is slightly different, but is also essentially the same. This form can be completed in approximately 20 minutes.

Section 1

1. Pre-Opening Stance
2. Opening Form
3. Grasp Peacock's Tail
4. Single Whip
5. Raise Hands
6. White Crane Spreading Wings
7. Brush Knee and Twist Step -- Left
8. Hands Strumming the Lute
9. Brush Knee and Twist Step -- Left and Right
10. Hands Strumming the Lute
11. Step Up, Parry, and Punch
12. Apparent Close-Up
13. Cross Hands
14. Return to Mountain with Tiger

Section 2

15. Obliquely Grasp Peacock's Tail
16. Fist Under Elbow
17. Slip Back Forearm -- Left and Right
18. Oblique Flying
19. Raise Hands
20. White Crane Spreading Wings
21. Brush Knee and Twist Step
22. Needle at Sea Bottom
23. Flash Out Arms
24. Turn, Sidle, and Punch
25. Step Up, Parry, and Punch
26. Step Up and Grasp Peacock's Tail
27. Single Whip
28. Wave Hands Like Clouds
29. Single Whip
30. High Pat on Horse
31. Right Kick
32. Left Kick
33. Turn and Left Kick
34. Brush Knee and Twist Step
35. Step Up and Punch Down
36. White Snake Showing Tongue
37. Step Up, Parry, and Punch
38. Kick with Right Heel
39. Sidle Left to Tame Tiger
40. Sidle Right to Tame Tiger
41. About Turn and Kick with Right Heel
42. Strike Opponent's Ears with Both Fists
43. Kick with Left Heel
44. Turn and Kick with Right Heel
45. Step Up, Parry, and Punch
46. Apparent Close-Up
47. Cross Hands
48. Return to Mountain with Tiger

Section 3

49. Obliquely Grasp Peacock's Tail
50. Side-Step Single Whip
51. Parting Wild Horse's Mane -- Left and Right
52. Step Up and Grasp Peacock's Tail
53. Single Whip
54. Working at Shuttles (at 4 Angles)
55. Step Up and Grasp Peacock's Tail
56. Single Whip
57. Wave Hands Like Moving Clouds
58. Single Whip
59. Sweep Down
60. Golden Cock on One Leg -- Left and Right
61. Slip Back Arm -- Left and Right
62. Oblique Flying
63. Raise Hands
64. White Crane Spreading Wings
65. Brush Knee and Twist Step -- Left
66. Needle at Sea Bottom
67. Flash Out Arms
68. Turn, Sidle, and Punch
69. Step Up, Parry, and Punch
70. Step Up and Grasp Peacock's Tail
71. Single Whip
72. Wave Hands Like Moving Clouds
73. Single Whip
74. High Pat on Horse
75. Cross Palms (Back to Back) -- Left
76. Turn, Cross Hands, and Kick
77. Brush Knee and Punch
78. Step Up and Grasp Peacock's Tail
79. Single Whip
80. Sweep Down
81. Step Up to Form Seven Stars
82. Retreat to Mount Tiger
83. Turn and Swing up Lotus-Leg
84. Archer Shooting Tiger
85. Step Up, Parry, and Punch
86. Apparent Close-Up
87. Cross Hands
88. Closing Form

Cheng Man Ching's 37 Posture Form

First source: The Complete Book of T'ai Chi by Stewart McFarland, consultant Tan Mew Hong, published by DK Publishing (I own this book.)
Second source: T'Ai-Chi: The Supreme Ultimate Exercise for Health by Cheng Man-ch'ing and Robert W. Smith (I do not own this book.)

Cheng Man Ching created this form from the original Yang long form, simplifying the form and modifying the dynamics and skills involved. The book I own doesn't number the postures, so I wasn't sure how to get 37 (the typical number) from the list. While searching for information, I found the second source at Amazon.com where I could look inside it and view the table of contents. It gives all the postures and numbers them, so I've adjusted the form list here to match the numbering scheme from this second book (which I don't own). Given that the creator of the form is one of the authors of the book, I think it's a pretty reliable source. But what's different about the numbering scheme here is that only unique postures are numbered, repetitions of previous moves are not. That's probably what caused my confusion before, but hopefully things will make sense when you look at the form list.

• 1. Preparation
• 2. Beginning
• 3. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Left Ward-off
• 4. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Right Ward-off
• 5. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Rollback
• 6. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Press
• 7. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Push
• Turn the Body and Lower the Hands [1]
• 8. Single Whip
• 9. Lift Hands
• 10. Shoulder Strike / Lean Forward
• 11. White Crane Spreads Its Wings
• 12. Brush (Left) Knee, Twist Step
• 13. Strum the Lute / Play the Guitar
• 13A. Brush (Left) Knee, Twist Step [repeat 12]
• 14. Step Forward, Move / Deflect (Downward), Parry, and Punch
• 15. Apparent Close-Up / Withdraw and Push
• 16. Cross Hands
• 17. Embrace Tiger and Return to Mountain
• Ward-off [2]
• 17A. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Rollback [repeat 5]
• 17B. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Press [repeat 6]
• 17C. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Push [repeat 7]
• Turn the Body and Lower the Hands [1]
• 17D. (Diagonal) Single Whip [repeat 8]
• 18. Fist/Punch Under Elbow
• 19. Step Back to Repulse the Monkey, Right
• 20. Step Back to Repulse the Monkey, Left
• 20A. Step Back to Repulse the Monkey, Right [repeat 19]
• 21. Diagonal Flying
• 22. Cloud Hands, Right / Wave Hands in Clouds, Right
• 23. Cloud Hands, Left / Wave Hands in Clouds, Left
• 23A. Cloud Hands, Right / Wave Hands in Clouds, Right [repeat 22]
• 23B. Cloud Hands, Left / Wave Hands in Clouds, Left [repeat 23]
• 23C. Single Whip [repeat 8] [3]
• 24. Descending/Squatting Single Whip
• 25. Golden Rooster/Cock Stands on One Leg, Right
• 26. Golden Rooster/Cock Stands on One Leg, Left
• 27. Right Toe Kick / Separate Right Foot
• 28. Left Toe Kick / Separate Left Foot
• 29. Turn Body, Heel Kick / Turn and Strike with Heel
• 29A. Brush (Left) Knee, Twist Step [repeat 12]
• 30. Brush (Right) Knee, Twist Step [4]
• 31. Step Forward and Plant a Punch (Strike with Fist)
• 31A. Step Forward to Right Ward-off / Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Right Ward-off [repeat 4]
• 31B. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Rollback [repeat 5]
• 31C. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Press [repeat 6]
• 31D. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Push [repeat 7]
• Turn the Body and Lower the Hands [1]
• 31E. Single Whip [repeat 8]
• 32. Fair Lady Works Shuttles, Right
• 33. Fair Lady Works Shuttles, Left
• 33A. Fair Lady Works Shuttles, Right [repeat 32]
• 33B. Fair Lady Works Shuttles, Left [repeat 33]
• 33C. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Left Ward-off [repeat 3]
• 33D. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Right Ward-off [repeat 4]
• 33E. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Rollback [repeat 5]
• 33F. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Press [repeat 6]
• 33G. Grasp Sparrow's Tail: Push [repeat 7]
• Turn the Body and Lower the Hands [1]
• 33H. Single Whip [repeat 8] [3]
• 33I. Descending/Squatting Single Whip [repeat 24]
• 34. Step Up/Forward to Seven Stars
• 35. Step Back to Ride the Tiger
• 36. Turn Body, Lotus Kick / Turn Body and Sweep Lotus with Leg
• 37. Draw/Draw a Bow to Shoot the Tiger
• 37A. Step Forward, Move / Deflect (Downward), Parry, and Punch [repeat 14]
• 37B. Apparent Close-Up [repeat 15]
• 37C. Cross Hands [repeat 16]
• 37D. Close T'ai Chi

Footnotes:
[1]: Quoting the book I own, "Turn the Body, and Lower the Hands may have been added to Master Cheng's original form to facilitate a difficult change of postures from the Push stance to the various Single Whip sequences." My book (first source) lists it as a posture in the form, but the other book (second source) that I'm using to group and number the postures doesn't. So I've left it in where my book has it, but not given it a number in the form.

[2]: This Ward-off is not listed in the second source, but since I don't own it, I don't know for sure if it's not included or just combined with an adjacent move.

[3]: In the book I own (first source), this Single Whip is listed under the Descending/Squatting Single Whip posture, basically as a sort precede to it.

[4]: In the book I own (first source), this Brush (Right) Knee, Twist Step is listed under the previous Brush Knee, Twist Step, basically as a follow to it.

Yang Style Taijiquan Competition Routine

Copied from Competition Routines for Four Styles Taijiquan, translated by Xie Shoude, published by People's Sports Publishing House.

This form is mainly based on Yang Chengfu's writings, but has some minor modifications. The Pat Foot movement is new and the form's difficulty is increased for example in Kick with Heel and Kick to Both Sides where the foot must be higher than the waist. The routine is "reasonably arranged according to practical needs of attack and defense, while bringing out the soft, flowing style characteristic of the Yang school."

As with the other three standardized competition routines, this form was based on traditional routines and meant to retain traditional characteristic features while having a higher degree of difficulty in technical execution suitable for sport and competition. The movements are also "more reasonably arranged and structured", including more symmetrical movements rather than the traditional emphasis on one side of the body.

• Ready Position

Section 1

1. Commencing Form
2. Grasp the Peacock's Tail
3. Single Whip
4. Raise Hands and Step Up
5. The White Crane Spreads Its Wings
6. Brush Knee and Twist Step
7. Hand Strums the Lute
8. Parry and Punch
9. Apparent Close-Up

Section 2

10. Oblique Flying
11. Punch Under Elbow
12. Step Back and Whirl Arms
13. Work at Shuttle on Both Sides
14. Part the Horse's Mane on Both Sides

Section 3

15. Wave Hands Like Clouds
16. Single Whip
17. Pat High on the Horse
18. Kick with Right Heel
19. Strike Opponent's Ears with Both Fists
20. Separate with Left Foot
21. Turn Body and Kick with Heel
22. Needle at the Bottom of the Sea
23. Push Through the Back

Section 4

24. White Snake Spits Its Tongue
25. Slap Right Foot
26. Tame Tiger on Both Sides
27. Push Down -- Right Style
28. Stand on One Leg -- on Both Sides
29. Strike Groin with Fist
30. Grasp the Peacock's Tail
31. Single Whip
32. Push Down -- Left Style
33. Step Forward with Seven-Star
34. Step Backward and Straddle Tiger
35. Turn Body and Lotus Kick
36. Curved Bow Shoots Tiger
37. Parry and Punch
38. Apparent Close-Up
39. Cross Hands
40. Closing Form

Chen Style Taijiquan Competition Routine

Copied from Competition Routines for Four Styles Taijiquan, translated by Xie Shoude, published by People's Sports Publishing House.

This form is "a merger of the traditional Routine No. I and No. II of this style." Symmetry of the major moves is emphasized, for example The Buddha's Warrior Attendent Pounds Rice in a Mortar, Single Whip, Cover Hands and Strike with Arm, and Firing in Rapid Succession are all done on both sides "to promote a balanced development of the body. The whole routine consists of circular, rhythmically paced, outwardly gentle, but inwardly strong movements as are the charcteristic of the Chen style."

As with the other three standardized competition routines, this form was based on traditional routines and meant to retain traditional characteristic features while having a higher degree of difficulty in technical execution suitable for sport and competition. The movements are also "more reasonably arranged and structured", including more symmetrical movements rather than the traditional emphasis on one side of the body.

Section 1

1. Commencing Form
2. Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar -- Right Style
3. Tuck in Robes
4. Six Sealings and Four Closings -- Right Style
5. Single Whip -- Left Style
6. Parry and Punch with Elbows
7. Protect Heart with Fists
8. White Crane Spreads Its Wings
9. Walk Obliquely and Twist Step
10. Lift Knee, Push and Press Palms
11. Wade Forward and Twist Step
12. Cover Hands and Strike with Arm -- Left Style
13. Parry with Fist
14. Lean and Break with Back
15. Black Dragon Rises from the Water
16. Slice with Palm
17. Turn and Press with Palms
18. Turn Flowers Out from the Bottom of the Sea
19. Cover Hands and Strike with Arm -- Right Style
20. Six Sealings and Four Closings
21. Single Whip -- Right Style

Section 2

22. Wave Hands Like Clouds (rightward)
23. Wave Hands Like Clouds (leftward)
24. Pat High on the Horse
25. Combined Cannons -- Right Style
26. Combined Cannons -- Left Style
27. Deflect Through the Back

Section 3

28. Strike Groin with Fist
29. White Ape Presents Fruit
30. Push with Both Hands
31. Middle Winding
32. Forward Trick
33. Backward Trick
34. Part the Wild Horse's Mane -- Right Style
35. Part the Wild Horse's Mane -- Left Style
36. Lotus Kick and Drop into the Splits
37. Golden Cock Stands on One Leg -- on Both Sides

Section 4

38. Step Backward and Whirl Arms
39. Step Backward and Press Elbow
40. Slap Foot
41. Kick with Outer Edge of Foot
42. Turn Flower Out from the Bottom of the Sea
43. Punch Ground with Fist
44. Turn Body and Front Jump Kick
45. Stamp with Both Feet
46. Kick with Heel
47. Fair Lady Works at the Shuttle
48. Smooth Elbowing
49. Wrap Firecrackers
50. Dragon Dives to the Ground
51. Step Forward with Seven-Star
52. Step Backward and Straddle the Tiger
53. Turn Body and Lotus Kick
54. Strike Face Like Cannon
55. Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar -- Left Style
56. Closing Form

Wu Style Taijiquan Competition Routine

Copied from Competition Routines for Four Styles Taijiquan, translated by Xie Shoude, published by People's Sports Publishing House.

This form is primarily based on forms created by Wu Jianquan who founded the style while incorporating strong points from the exercises developed by Wang Maozhai and other well-known exponents. A characteristic is "well-knit, lithe movements."

As with the other three standardized competition routines, this form was based on traditional routines and meant to retain traditional characteristic features while having a higher degree of difficulty in technical execution suitable for sport and competition. The movements are also "more reasonably arranged and structured", including more symmetrical movements rather than the traditional emphasis on one side of the body.

Section 1

1. Commencing Form
2. Grasp the Peacock's Tail -- Right Style
3. Single Whip -- Left Style
4. Step Up and Raise Hand
5. The White Crane Flashes Its Wings
6. Brush Knee and Twist Step on Both Sides
7. Hand Strums the Lute
8. Step Forward, Parry and Punch
9. Apparent Close-Up
10. Cross Hands
11. Grasp the Peacock's Tail -- Left Style
12. Single Whip -- Right Style
13. Push Down -- Right Style
14. Golden Cock Stands on One Leg

Section 2

15. Step Back and Whirl Arms on Both Sides
16. Needle at the Bottom of the Sea -- Right Style
17. Flash the Arm -- Left Style
18. Turn Body and Throw Fist
19. Punch Fist Under the Elbow
20. Part the Wild Horse's Mane on Both Sides
21. Fair Lady Works and the Shuttle

Section 3

22. Wave Hands Like Clouds -- Left Style
23. Pat High on the Horse -- Right Style
24. Kick with Toes of Right Foot
25. Kick with Toes of Left Foot
26. Strike the Tiger on Both Sides
27. Kick with Right Heel
28. Strike Opponent's Ears with Both Fists
29. Oblique Flying
30. Push Palm in Bow Step -- Right Style

Section 4

31. Slap Crossed-Kick
32. Brush Knee and Punch Down
33. Needle at the Bottom of the Sea -- Left Style
34. Flash the Arm -- Right Style
35. Wave Hands Like Clouds -- Right Style
36. Pat High on the Horse -- Left Style
37. Turn Body Back and Strike Groin with Fist
38. Push Down -- Left Style
39. Step Forward with Seven-Star
40. Step Backward and Straddle the Tiger
41. Push Palm in Bow Step -- Left Style
42. Turn Body and Lotus Kick
43. Curved Bow Shoots Tiger
44. Step Backward, Parry and Punch
45. Closing Form

Sun Style Taijiquan Competition Routine

Copied from Competition Routines for Four Styles Taijiquan, translated by Xie Shoude, published by People's Sports Publishing House.

"The Sun-style routine is characterized by quick, nimble movements, good coordination between the opening and closing of the arms, rigorous method of performance, graceful bearing."

As with the other three standardized competition routines, this form was based on traditional routines and meant to retain traditional characteristic features while having a higher degree of difficulty in technical execution suitable for sport and competition. The movements are also "more reasonably arranged and structured", including more symmetrical movements rather than the traditional emphasis on one side of the body.

Section 1

1. Ready Position
2. Tuck in Robes
3. Open Hands
4. Close Hands
5. Single Whip
6. Raise Hand
7. The White Crane Flashes Its Wings
8. Open Hands
9. Close Hands
10. Brush Knee and Twist Step on the Left Side
11. Hand Strums the Lute
12. Step Up, Parry and Punch
13. Apparent Close-Up
14. Embrace Tiger and Push Mountain
15. Open Hands (Turn to the Right)
16. Close Hands
17. Brush Knee and Twist Step (Turn to the Right)
18. Tuck in Robes -- Right Style
19. Open Hands
20. Close Hands
21. Single Whip -- Left Style
22. Punch Fist Under Elbow

Section 2

23. Turn Body, Brush and Push Hand -- Left Style
24. Turn Body, Brush and Push Hand -- Right Style
25. Brush Knee and Twist Step -- Left Style
26. Tuck in Robes -- Left Style
27. Open Hands
28. Close Hands
29. Single Whip -- Right Style
30. Wave Hands Like Clouds -- Right Style
31. Pat High on the Horse
32. Separate Legs -- Left Style
33. Separate Legs -- Right Style
34. Step Forward and Punch Down

Section 3

35. Turn Over with Flying Front Kick
36. Turn Body and Tame Tiger
37. Lift Foot -- Left Style
38. Turn Body and Kick with Right Heel
39. Step Up, Parry and Punch
40. Apparent Close-Up
41. Embrace Tiger and Push Mountain

Section 4

42. Open Hands (Turn to the Left)
43. Close Hands
44. Brush Knee and Twist Step
45. Tuck in Robes
46. Open Hands
47. Close Hands
48. Oblique Single Whip
49. Part the Horse's Mane
50. Tuck in Robes
51. Open Hands
52. Close Hands
53. Single Whip -- Left Style

Section 5

54. Wave Hands Like Clouds -- Left Style
55. Wave Hands and Push Down
56. Golden Cock Stands on One Leg
57. Flash Through the Back

Section 6

58. Fair Lady Works at the Shuttle
59. Pat High on the Horse
60. Cross Slap Kick
61. Step (Forward) and Strike Groin with Fist
62. Tuck in Robes in Moving Steps
63. Open Hands
64. Close Hands
65. Single Whip -- Left Style
66. Single Whip and Push Down
67. Step Up to Form Seven Stars
68. Step Backward and Mount the Tiger
69. Turn Body and Lotus Kick
70. Curved Bow Shoots Tiger
71. Clout with Both Fists
72. Combine "Yin" and "Yang" Into One
73. Closing Form

Chen's First Lu

Copied from The Dao of Taijiquan, Way to Rejuvenation by Jou, Tsung Hwa, published by Tai Chi Foundation.

This form has simple movements, more softness, and less firmness. Ward off, roll back, press, and push (the four directions) are emphasized, elbow, split, pull down, and shoulder strike (the four corners) are secondary. "For the student, the routine is like a self-teaching encyclopedia of the science of movement, of martial arts techniques, and of qigong." Frequent shifts from vigorous to soft help train transitions between yin and yang. The body leads the hands in this form. The form ends facing the opposite direction it started so it is intended to be performed twice in a row.

1. Beginning of Taiji
2. King Kong Nailed Fist
3. Grasp Sparrow's Tail
4. 60% Open and 40% Closed
5. Single Whip
6. King Kong Nailed Fist
7. White Crane Spreads Wings
8. First Side Walk and Twist Step
9. First Conclusion
10. Kick Forward and Twist Step
11. Second Side Walk and Twist Step
12. Second Conclusion
13. Kick Forward and Twist Step
14. Hidden Hand Punch
15. King Kong Nailed Fist
16. Chop Opponent with Fist
17. Bending Back and Shoulder Strike
18. Blue Dragon Flies Up from Water
19. Push with Both Hands
20. Three Changes of Palm
21. Fist Under Elbow
22. Upper Arm Rolls
23. Backward and Press Elbow
24. Middle Stage
25. White Crane Spreads Wings
26. Side Walk and Twist Step
27. Fan Through the Back
28. Hidden Hand Punch
29. 60% Open and 40% Closed
30. Single Whip
31. Cloud Hands
32. High Pat on Horse
33. Rub Right Foot
34. Rub Left Foot
35. Turn Body and Kick
36. Kick Forward and Twist Step
37. Hit Ground with Fist
38. Jump and Kick Twice
39. Animal Head Posture
40. Hurricane Kick
41. Turn Body and Kick
42. Hidden Hand Punch
43. Samll Grasp and Hit
44. Embrace Head and Push Mountain
45. Three Changes of Palm
46. 60% Open and 40% Closed
47. Single Whip
48. Front Posture
49. Back Posture
50. Mustang Ruffling Its Main
51. 60% Open and 40% Closed
52. Single Whip
53. Shake Foot Twice
54. Fair Lady Works At Shuttles
55. Grasp Sparrow's Tail
56. 60% Open and 40% Closed
57. Single Whip
58. Cloud Hands
59. Sweep Leg and Cross Kick
60. Golden Pheasant Stands on One Leg
61. Upper Arm Rolls
62. Withdraw and Press Elbow
63. Middle Stage
64. White Crane Spreads Wings
65. Side Walk and Twist Step
66. Fan Through the Back
67. Hidden Hand Punch
68. 60% Open and 40% Closed
69. Single Whip
70. Cloud Hands
71. High Pat on Horse
72. Cross Hands and Sweep Lotus with One Leg
73. Punch Opponent's Groin
74. White Ape Offers Fruits
75. 60% Open and 40% Closed
76. Single Whip
77. Sparrow Ground Dragon
78. Step Up to Form Seven Stars of the Dipper
79. Step Back to Ride Tiger
80. Turn Around and Sweep Lotus
81. Face Opponent Cannon
82. King Kong Nailed Fist
83. Conclusion of Taiji

Chen's Second Lu, Paochui

Copied from The Dao of Taijiquan, Way to Rejuvenation by Jou, Tsung Hwa, published by Tai Chi Foundation.

This form has more complicated movements, more firmness, and less softness. Elbow, split, pull down, and shoulder strike (the four corners) are emphasized, ward off, roll back, press, and push (the four directions) are secondary; this is the opposite of the first lu. Fast action is important and in this form the hands lead the body. For an attack to have real fajing the whole body must act as a single unit and the energy must be internal; external, physical force should not be used.

1. Beginning of Paochui
2. King Kong Nailed Fist
3. Grasp Sparrow's Tail
4. 60% Open and 40% Closed
5. Single Whip
6. Deflect Downward, Intercept and Punch
7. Guard the Heart Punch
8. Side Walk and Twist Step
9. Sink Waist with Elbow and Fist Down
10. Punch Down the Well
11. Plum Flowers Swept by Wind
12. King Kong Nailed Fist
13. Hidden Body Punch
14. Drape Over Body and Punch
15. Cut Hand
16. Sleeves Dance Like Turning Flowers
17. Hidden Hand Punch
18. Flying Step and Elbow
19. Cloud Hands
20. High Pat on Horse
21. Cloud Hands
22. High Pat on Horse
23. Machine Cannon 1
24. Machine Cannon 2
25. Machine Cannon 3
26. Ride Unicorn in Reverse
27. White Snake Sticks Out Tongue 1
28. White Snake Sticks Out Tongue 2
29. White Snake Sticks Out Tongue 3
30. Turn Flower Under Sea Bottom
31. Hidden Hand Punch
32. Turn Body and Six Coincides
33. Left Firecracker 1
34. Left Firecracker 2
35. Right Firecracker 1
36. Right Firecracker 2
37. Animal Head Posture
38. Cut Frame
39. Sleeves Dance Like Turning Flowers
40. Hidden Hand Posture
41. Subdued Tiger
42. Color Eyebrow Red
43. Yellow Dragon Plays Water (Right)
44. Yellow Dragon Plays Water (Left)
45. Turn Body and Kick Left
46. Turn Body and Kick Right
47. Turn Flower Under Sea Bottom
48. Hidden Hand Punch
49. Sweep Ground with Leg
50. Hidden Hand Punch
51. Left Rush
52. Right Rush
53. Insert on Opposite Direction
54. Turn Flower Under Sea Bottom
55. Hidden Hand Punch
56. Seize Upper Arm 1
57. Seize Upper Arm 2
58. Machine Cannon
59. Fair Lady Works at Shuttles
60. Turn Head and Cannon Forward
61. Fair Lady Works at Shuttles
62. Turn Head and Cannon Forward
63. Chop Opponent with Fist
64. Twist Elbow
65. Submissive Elbow
66. Elbow Through Heart
67. Embraced Cannon
68. Punch Down the Well
69. Plum Flowers Swept by Wind
70. King Kong Nailed Fist
71. Conclusion of Paochui

Wu's/Hao's Taijiquan

Copied from The Dao of Taijiquan, Way to Rejuvenation by Jou, Tsung Hwa, published by Tai Chi Foundation.

Note that this is sometimes called the Hao form because Haoweizhen was a popular master of the Wu style and had many students. This is not the same Wu as the Wu style of Wujianquan; that style is basically a modification of the Yang style.

1. Beginning of Taiji
2. Left Grasp Sparrow's Tail
3. Right Grasp Sparrow's Tail
4. Single Whip
5. Lift Hand
6. White Goose Spreads Wings
7. Brush Knee and Twist Step
8. Playing Guitar
9. Brush Knee and Twist Step
10. Playing Guitar
11. Step Forward, Deflect Downward, Intercept and Punch
12. Withdraw and Push
13. Embrace Tiger and Push Mountain
14. Playing Guitar
15. Right Grasp Sparrow's Tail
16. Single Whip
17. Lift Hand
18. Fist Under Elbow
19. Step Back to Repulse Monkey, Right
20. Step Back to Repulse Monkey, Left
21. Step Back to Repulse Monkey, Right
22. Step Back to Repulse Monkey, Left
23. Playing Guitar
24. White Goose Spreads Wings
25. Brush Knee and Twist Step
26. Playing Guitar
27. Push Posture
28. Blue Dragon Flies Out from Water
29. Drape Over the Body
30. Three Changes of the Back
31. Single Whip
32. Downward Posture
33. Cloud Hands
34. Single Whip
35. Lift Hand
36. High Pat on Horse
37. Submissive Tiger Posture, Left
38. Separate Right Foot
39. Submissive Tiger Posture, Right
40. Separate Left Foot
41. Turn Body and Kick Right Foot
42. Single Whip
43. Jump Forward and Punch Downward
44. Jump High and Kick Twice
45. Turn Body Posture
46. Withdraw and Kick
47. Turn Body and Kick with Right Heel
48. Step Forward, Deflect Downward, Intercept and Punch
49. Withdraw and Push
50. Embrace Tiger and Push Mountain
51. Playing Guitar
52. Grasp Sparrow's Tail, Right
53. Diagonal Single Whip
54. Downward Posture
55. Mustang Ruffling Its Mane
56. Single Whip
57. Fair Lady Works at Shuttles
58. Playing Guitar
59. Grasp Sparrow's Tail, Right
60. Single Whip
61. Downward Posture
62. Cloud Hands
63. Single Whip
64. Downward Posture
65. Golden Pheasant Stands with One Leg
66. Step Back to Repulse Monkey, Left
67. Step Back to Repulse Monkey, Right
68. Step Back to Repulse Monkey, Left
69. Step Back to Repulse Monkey, Right
70. Playing Guitar
71. White Goose Spreads Wings
72. Brush Knee and Twist Step
73. Playing Guitar
74. Push Posture
75. Blue Dragon Flies Out from Water
76. Turn Body Posture
77. Three Changes of the Back
78. Single Whip
79. Downward Posture
80. Cloud Hands
81. Single Whip
82. Lift Hand
83. High Pat on Horse
84. Palm Strike to Opponent's Heart
85. Turn Around and Sweep Lotus with One Leg
86. Step Forward and Punch Opponent's Groin
87. Grasp Sparrow's Tail, Right
88. Single Whip
89. Downward Posture
90. Step Up to Form Seven Stars of the Dipper
91. Step Back to Ride Tiger
92. Sweep Lotus with One Leg
93. Shoot Tiger with Bow
94. Double Cannon Punch
95. Playing Guitar
96. Conclusion of Taiji

Taiji Fighting Set

Copied from Tai Chi Chuan Martial Applications by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, published by YMAA Publication Center.

This is an interesting form and apparently a rather advanced one. In the same author's book Taijiquan, Classical Yang Style, the fighting set is number 21 of 22 in the training sequence provided. This book has a pretty good description of this form though and includes "other options", other ways each of the moves could be used in combat practice, but are not used in the form.

As a fighting set, this is performed by two people alternating moves. However, moves 28 and 29 are both performed by the same person (the one who did move 2) and moves 78 and 79 are both performed by the same person (the one who did move 1). So in a sense, the roles switch twice during the form.

1. Step Forward for Punch
2. Raise Hands to the Up Posture
3. Step Forward, Intercept and Punch
4. Deflect and Punch
5. Step Forward and Left Shoulder-Stroke
6. Strike the Tiger (Right)
7. Left Elbow Strike
8. Push to the Left and Right Elbow-Stroke
9. Withdraw the Step and Strike the Tiger (Left)
10. Right Downward Strike
11. Raise Hands to the Up Posture
12. Turn the Body and Push
13. Right Swinging-Body Strike
14. Intercept and Punch, One
15. Intercept and Punch, Two
16. Wild Horses Shear the Mane (Left)
17. Strike the Tiger (Right)
18. Turn the Body, Withdraw the Step, and Rollback
19. Step Forward and Press (Left)
20. Turn the Body and Press (Left)
21. Double Dividing and Heel Kick
22. Punch the Groin
23. Step Forward to Pluck and Rend
24. Fair Lady Weaves with Shuttle, One
25. Fair Lady Weaves with Shuttle, Two
26. White Crane Spreads Its Wings
27. Left Shoulder-Stroke
28. Rollback the Shoulder
29. Turn the Body to Rend the Shoulder
30. Turn the Body to Rollback
31. Two Winds Pass Through the Ears
32. Double Push
33. Single Whip
34. Right Push
35. File the Shoulder (Right)
36. Follow the Posture and Push
37. Neutralize and Strike with Right Palm
38. Neutralize and Push
39. Neutralize and Strike with Right Elbow
40. Pluck and Rend
41. Exchange Steps and Rollback
42. Step Forward and Press
43. Exchange Steps and Rollback
44. Strike the Tiger (Right)
45. Turn the Body, Step Backward, and Rollback
46. Step Forward and Press to the Left
47. Return with Press
48. Exchange Steps and Shoulder-Stroke
49. Turn the Body to Fly Diagonally
50. Right Elbow-Strike
51. Turn the Body for Rooster Standing on One Leg
52. Downward-Neutralization
53. Heel Kick
54. Turn the Body, Step Forward, and Strike
55. Rollback Left Arm
56. Turn the Body and Right Kick
57. Double Dividing and Embrace the Knee (Right)
58. Turn the Body and Left Kick
59. Double Dividing and Embrace the Knee (Left)
60. Change Hands and Right Shoulder-Stroke
61. Return Right Elbow-Stroke
62. Step Forward and Grasp the Sparrow's Tail (Left)
63. Wave Hands In Clouds (Right)
64. Step Forward and Grasp the Sparrow's Tail (Right)
65. Wave Hands In Clouds (Left)
66. Divide Upward, Press, and Downward Heel Kick
67. Low Hook Kick
68. Turn the Body to Sweep Lotus
69. Left Elbow-Stroke
70. Hook Hand and Snake Creeps Down
71. Diagonal Flying (Right)
72. Strike the Tiger (Left)
73. Double Dividing and Push Down
74. Step Back and Repulse Monkey
75. Left Push
76. Step Back and Repulse Monkey
77. Right Push
78. Repulse Monkey
79. Right Palm Strike
80. Step Forward to Seven Stars
81. Pick Up Needle from Sea Bottom
82. Fan Back
83. Pluck Right
84. Draw the Bow and Shoot the Tiger
85. Neutralize Up and Press Forward
86. Punch Under the Elbow
87. Cross Hands
88. Embrace Tiger and Return to the Mountain

Taiji Sword

Copied from Taiji Sword, Classical Yang Style by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming, published by YMAA Publication Center.

I recently purchased this book and haven't had a chance to read it and go through the sword form described in it. This is for straight sword, by the way -- the long, thin, double-edged kind of sword. From what I've seen so far, the form in this book is not the 32-posture sword form, which I think is considered a standardized/simplified form. The book calls this the traditional Yang form and counts 54 postures for it (if you know this form, your count may vary slightly). The only other comment I have now is that I found it interesting how many of the posture names involve animals and how many different animals are named. I'll try to add some more notes later, after I've had a chance to go through it in more detail.

1. Beginning
2. Step Forward and Close with Sword
3. The Fairy Shows the Way -- 1
4. Three Rings Envelop the Moon
5. Big Chief Star
6. The Swallow Dips Its Beak in the Water
7. Left Sweep, Right Sweep
8. Little Chief Star
9. The Yellow Bee Enters the Hole
10. The Spirit Cat Catches the Mouse
11. The Dragonfly Touches the Water
12. The Swallow Enters the Nest
13. The Phoenix Spreads Its Wings
14. Right Whirlwind
15. Little Chief Star
16. Left Whirlwind
17. Waiting for a Fish
18. Part the Grass in Search of Snake
19. Hold the Moon against the Chest
20. Send the Bird to the Woods
21. Black Dragon Waves Its Tail
22. The Wind Blows the Lotus Leaf
23. The Lion Shakes Its Head
24. The Tiger Holds Its Head
25. The Wild Horse Jumps the Stream
26. Turn Body and Rein In the Horse
27. Compass
28. Clean Up Dust In the Wind
29. Push the Boat With the Current
30. The Shooting Star Chasing the Moon
31. The Bird Flying Over the Waterfall
32. Raise the Screen
33. Left and Right Wheel Sword
34. The Swallow Picks Up Mud with Its Beak
35. The Roc Spreads Its Wings
36. Pick Up the Moon from the Sea Bottom
37. Hold the Moon against the Chest
38. The Night Demon Gauges the Depth of the Sea
39. The Rhino Looks at the Moon
40. Shoot the Geese
41. The Blue Dragon Waves Its Claws
42. The Phoenix Spreads Its Wings
43. Left and Right Step Over Obstacle
44. Shoot the Geese
45. The White Ape Offers Fruit
46. Falling Flowers Posture
47. The Fair Lady Weaves with the Shuttle
48. The White Tiger Waves Its Tail
49. The Fish Jumps Into the Dragon Gate
50. The Black Dragon Wraps around the Post
51. Fairy Shows the Way -- 2
52. Wind Blows Away the Plum Flowers
53. To Hold a Tablet
54. Hold the Sword and Return to the Original Stance

Some Closing Notes

One of my books mentions a 66 posture form as another standardized form, but nothing else about it. While web searching, I happened to run across this Combined Tai Chi Chuen form with 67 postures. I thought it was probably the same form, but didn't know why it had one more posture than the official version. But the author of that page wrote to me after finding my link and explained it -- the form was originally 67 postures, but later the last High Pat the Horse was removed to make the 66 posture "official" version; his teacher sticks with the original form. Thanks to P.K. Shiu for the information and form list.

I recently added this link to my hobbies page, but if you'd like to see videos of some forms being performed, visit Taiji.de (here's the English starting page). I don't think all of the forms I listed here are on video there and I know that they have videos of forms I do not list here. For some additional tai chi related links, head over to the martial arts section of my sports page.

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