General Introduction

After emigrating from North China and settling in Baton Rouge, Jie Gu earned a PhD in engineering from LSU and pursued a career as a civil engineer. However, severe anemia limited her energy levels outside of work. In October 2018, she turned to Taijiquan to restore her well-being. The gentle, flowing movements not only revitalized her energy in ways other sports couldn’t, but also helped her embrace the philosophy of Yin and Yang, bringing balance and patience into her personal and professional life.

In 2020, Jie began competing regionally, progressing to the U.S. National Kung Fu Team in May 2022 and advancing to the U.S. National Taiji Team in May 2024. Passionate about sharing the health benefits of Tai Chi, she introduced a 15-minute Tai Chi break at workplace in April 2023. By September of that year, she launched a weekly free Tai Chi group in local parks with the help of her friends. With the support of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library, she began offering free Tai Chi classes to the general public starting in November 2023, with class sizes ranging from 30 to 70 participants per session.

For Jie, practicing Tai Chi aligns with her responsibility as an engineer to protect public health and safety. She finds joy in connecting with others through Tai Chi and is committed to expanding access to this practice. Jie freely shares her teaching materials and guidance with those interested in bringing Tai Chi to their own communities.

Jie believes that Tai Chi is not about natural talent but rather the result of a desire to improve and consistent effort. As a child, she was not selected for any physical enrichment programs when her school assigned after-class activities based on such evaluations. However, in her middle age, driven by a strong desire for self-improvement and the growing health benefits she experienced from consistent Tai Chi practice, she progressed from a novice to an amateur world champion in nearly six years. Jie firmly believes that if she can achieve this, anyone can, and she hopes to inspire others to begin and continue their Tai Chi journey to experience its benefits.

Jie came to the USA inspired by the American dream: “Every person has the freedom and opportunity to succeed and attain a better life.” For her, a better life now means being kind to herself through continued practice and to others by offering free Tai Chi lessons to anyone interested.

Due to the lack of quality standards and regulations, Jie does not see value in obtaining certification from any of the existing Tai Chi teaching organizations and does not intend to pursue any such certification. She will continue to compete as an independent, enthusiastic athlete and spread the practice as an uncertified instructor. Jie does not accept tuition or gifts but welcomes compliments and constructive criticism. She encourages others to feel free to point out any mistakes in her movements or acknowledge her positive influence.