T'ai Chi Ch'uan: A Simplified Method of Calisthenics for Health & Self Defense

by Cheng Man-ch'ing

This is the original classic about Short Form, the most popular and widespread form of T'ai Chi in the West. T'ai Chi Ch'uan is a must-read for every serious T'ai Chi student. This book is not meant to "teach" T'ai Chi Ch'uan, but meant to expound upon its meaning to the earnest practitioner; to offer the layperson a glimpse into this ancient art; and to communicate the author's unique perceptions and experiences that only a lifetime of practice can cultivate. Taken in this context, this is a most valuable book.

Genres: Martial Arts, Nonfiction, Health, Reference, Philosophy, Fitness

159 pages, Paperback

First published January 11, 1993

Reviews

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

A concise description of how to make the most out of TCC as practiced by the author. Simple yet motivating approach. The key as in everything in life is to practice as often as you can if not everyday. He developed a form that could be practiced in less than 1/2 hour each day so that he (we) could get the most out of effective exercise in a short amount of time so that we could fit it in with the rest of our busy schedule. Also, remember to walk everyday to get in our cardio :).

[david stenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

For many years, this book was my Bible. Professor Cheng is grandmaster of my lineage, and this book contains every important secret in the Eastern esoteric Taoist tradition, but it is put forth so simply and exactly that it is easily overlooked. If you are studying Professor Cheng's system of tai chi chuan, this book is all you need for reference.

[Tom Maentz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tai Chi Chuan explained by a master, albeit very difficult to follow.

[Aleks · Rating 2 out of 5]

In a world without war, it could work.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun to revisit after 30 years and back in classes

[Al Maki · Rating 4 out of 5]

In any craft, be it cooking, knitting, or pruning, there is disagreement among practitioners as to the best method. I've been practicing T'ai Chi Ch'uan daily since 1991, switching to this method in 1995. I don't think that a person can learn T'ai Chi from a book but once it is learned, this book is a useful reference.

[Rah~ri · Rating 4 out of 5]

: )
I just really like the pictures .

[Adele Dessena · Rating 3 out of 5]

took this class and found the book of much help very self explanatory and easy to follow

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Waterbending is fun. Very relaxing and peaceful, even if I'm studying it for martial applications.

[Serge Pierro · Rating 3 out of 5]

Since I learned this form, I found the insights provided within this book to be quite useful. It's nice to be able to get the info straight from the original source.

[Hawkgirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I only read this for a class I was taking on Tai Ji. It's fairly interesting on the philosophical parts. A little bit dated when the author is talking about women & physical activity.