Wu Style Tai Chi 16 Form

Wu Style Tai Chi 16 Form

Wu Style Tai Chi is one of the five major styles of Tai Chi, known for its smooth, gentle, and flowing movements. The 16 Form is a shorter, simplified version of the traditional Wu Style sequences, designed to be more accessible for beginners and suitable for practice in limited spaces. Here’s a general outline of the Wu Style Tai Chi 16 Form:

1. Preparation: Begin in a natural standing position with feet shoulder-width apart, arms relaxed at the sides.

2. Commencement: Slowly raise the arms to shoulder height, then lower them back down.

3. Parting the Wild Horse's Mane: Step to the side and perform a movement that resembles parting the mane of a horse.

4. White Crane Spreads Its Wings: Shift weight and perform a movement with one arm up and one arm down, mimicking a crane spreading its wings.

5. Brush Knee and Twist Step: Step forward while brushing one knee and twisting the body.

6. Play the Lute: Shift back and bring one foot up while raising the arms as if playing a lute.

7. Repulse Monkey: Step back with a pushing motion.

8. Grasp the Bird's Tail: Perform a series of movements involving warding off, rolling back, pressing, and pushing.

9. Single Whip: Extend one arm out to the side with a hook hand, while the other arm pushes forward.

10. Wave Hands Like Clouds: Move sideways with a gentle wave-like motion of the hands.

11. Single Whip: Repeat the single whip movement.

12. High Pat on Horse: Step forward and pat the horse.

13. Kick with Sole: Perform a kick with the sole of the foot.

14. Strike the Ears with Both Fists: Simultaneously strike the ears with both fists.

15. Turn and Kick with Heel: Turn and perform a kick with the heel.

16. Apparent Close: Perform movements to close the form, ending in a standing position similar to the starting posture.

Each movement flows into the next, emphasizing balance, coordination, and relaxation. The 16 Form is a great introduction to the principles and movements of Wu Style Tai Chi.