Fengyang Eight-Style Tai Chi was created by Dr. Wu Mingjie. This simplified Tai Chi system preserves the core essence of traditional internal martial arts while being easy for people of all levels to learn and practice. It is ideal for beginners, seniors, people undergoing physical rehabilitation, and anyone seeking wellness and harmony of body and mind.

The Eight Movements

1. Opening Form – Relaxes the body and calms the mind, regulating breathing to enter a tranquil training state.

2. Wild Horse Splits Its Mane – Boosts physical coordination, balance and holistic body movement.

3. White Crane Spreads Its Wings – Opens up the chest cavity, corrects posture and improves respiratory function.

4. Brush Knee and Twist Step – Strengthens the lower limbs, waist and core muscles, harmonizing upper and lower body movements.

5. Play the Lute – Cultivates bodily stability, poise and mental concentration.

6. Repulse Monkey – Increases spinal flexibility, coordination and backward stepping techniques.

7. Close Up – Builds internal energy, maintains upright posture and balances internal and external movement.

8. Closing Form – Restores peacefulness, bringing the body and mind back to a balanced and harmonious state.

Core Principles

• Centered on the Dantian; all movements originate from the Dantian region.

• Maintain deep, gentle, even and prolonged breathing, synchronized naturally with physical motions.

• Stay relaxed without being limp, grounded without stiffness, keeping proper posture with ease.

• Use the waist as the central axis to drive limb movement and generate integrated internal strength.

• Direct qi with mindful intention, circulating energy throughout the body. Unify consciousness, breathing and movement to achieve oneness of body and spirit.

Health Benefits

Consistent practice delivers the following advantages:

• Improves balance and physical coordination

• Enhances flexibility and joint mobility

• Builds strength in legs and stabilizing core muscles

• Reduces stress and relieves mental tension

• Optimizes breathing capacity and lung function

• Rectifies body posture and heightens bodily awareness

• Stimulates blood circulation and boosts overall physical health

• Lowers fall risks, especially for older adults

Suitable Practitioners

Fengyang Eight-Style Tai Chi is accessible to all age groups: absolute beginners, elderly practitioners, individuals in rehabilitation (under professional medical guidance), and those who wish to build fitness and longevity through simple daily exercise.

The full routine takes only 3 to 15 minutes to complete, perfect for home workouts, community classes and wellness programs. Guided by the philosophy “Easy to learn anywhere, practice anytime”, Fengyang Eight-Style Tai Chi brings ancient Tai Chi wisdom into modern life, allowing people across the globe to attain physical and mental wellness conveniently.

There is no fixed method; all disciplines converge into one ultimate truth. Excellent guidance from a master is essential for Tai Chi practice, yet lifelong cultivation depends on personal dedication. With incorrect fundamentals, even thirty years of training will fail to grasp the true essence of internal martial arts. Practise diligently each day, repeat simple movements until they embed into your subconscious mind, and achieve unity of body and soul. This is the path of Zen cultivation through Tai Chi.