Chen Pao Choi

Pao Choi is the combat side of Chen Tai Chi. While the first form teaches softness, energy cultivation, and whole body spiral mechanics, Pao Choi teaches how to use all this with martial application. Most people envision Tai Chi as people moving very slowly in the park. This is Yang Style Tai Chi, which is also very good Tai Chi, but with the martial side removed so as to focus on the healing benefits.

The form taught in this class is Chen Style Tai Chi Old Frame Second Form, also known as Pao Choi (Laojia Erlu). Pao Choi teaches Fajin, or issuing explosive power. The other main focuses of this class is Push Hands exercises (tui shou) where students learn how Tai Chi works as a Martial Art. Push Hands is the Sparring of Tai Chi. The way that Tai Chi fights is very similar to grappling, because of this it is an in close fighting style. Through Push Hands, students learn the 8 methods of Tai Chi and how they apply to the form. They are Ward Off, Roll Back, Press, Push, Pull Down, Split, Elbow, and Shoulder strikes.

Class begins with Standing Meditation, followed by Old Frame First form, and advanced Silk Reeling exercises. We then go through the Pao Choi Form while movements are broken down into detail. Next is Push Hands where students test their skill with a partner. Class concludes with a Tao reading and sitting meditation.