24 Movements Taijiquan: Class Overview and Discussion

The in-person 24 movements Tai Chi Hand Form sessions is ongoing in Baton Rouge since 2023. Current class schedule can be found on our Schedule page.

Introduction

In 1956, a standardized and simplified form of Yang Style Taijiquan with 24 movements was developed by a group of Taijiquan masters in China. Repetitive movements were deleted and the sequence of steps was designed in a way to gradually progress from simple to intermediate, then to more challenging. The practice of the simplified 24 movements taijiquan only take about 4-5 minutes to perform, yet give beginners an introduction to the essential elements of the art of Tai Chi, while retaining the traditional flavor and benefits.

Demo by Master Gao, Jiamin

Master Gao Jiamin is a distinguished Tai Chi athlete and Tai Chi coach, renowned for her exceptional skill and dedication to the art. With an impressive collection of 32 gold medals to her name, she has demonstrated her mastery across numerous national and international competitions. Master Gao’s unique style captivates audiences, blending traditional techniques with a modern flair, making her a revered figure in the Tai Chi community.

Warm-Up Routine

Movement Illustrations

1. Commencing

2. Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane

This movement was repeated 3 times in this routine including

Left Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane

Right Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane

and the Left Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane again

3. White Crane Spreads Its Wings

4. Brush Knee and Push

This movement was repeated 3 times in this routine including

Left Brush Knew and Push

Right Brush Knee and Push

and Left Brush Knee and Push again

5. Strum the Pipa ( Lute)
6. Repulse Monkeys

The monkeys were repulsed four times in this routine

First time

Second time

then repeat another two times on each side

7. Left Grasp the Sparrow’s Tail

Wardoff

Roll Back

Press

Push

8. Right Grasp the Sparrow’s Tail

Similar to 7 on the right side

9. Single Whip
10. Cloud Hands Wave

Cloud Hands Wave is repeated 3 times in the routine

First connecting from Single Whip

Second time

Third time

11. Single Whip

Same as 9

12. High Pat on Horse
13. Right Heel Kick

Cross hand

Kick

14. Strike opponent’s ears with both fists
15. Turn around to Left Heel Kick

Cross Hands

Kick

16. Left low posture and Stand on one leg

Low Posture

Stand on One Leg

17. Right low posture ad Stand on one leg

Low Posture

Stand on One Leg

18. Working the Shuttles

There are two steps in this movement including

Working the Shuttles on the left

and Working the Shuttles on the right

19. Needle at sea bottom
20. Flash through the back
21. Turn body, deflect, Parry and Punch

Turn Body, Deflect

Parry

Punch

22. Apparent Close Up

Pull back

Push forward

23. Cross hands
24. Closing form

Demo by Master Chen, Sitan

Master Chen Sitan is a celebrated Tai Chi athlete and coach, a prominent figure in the Tai Chi community. He trained under the same esteemed teacher as Master Gao Jiamin and has also achieved 32 gold medals. Many of his demonstration videos are available online, showcasing his skill and artistry. Below is a recent high-resolution demonstration recorded in 2023 for the 16th World Wushu Championships.

Background Music Used In Class

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