The purpose of the Taijiquan Basic Education (TBE) is to provide a thorough and in-depth study of the fundamentals of taijiquan, both in theory and practice, and has a duration of two years.
Taijiquan is a health-nourishing and internal style of martial arts from China. It can be divided into three main categories, namely: Philosophy, Mental/Physical Well-being, and Martial Arts. The Taijiquan Basic Education provides a program based on these three categories and its content consists of 50% theory and 50% practice.
In practice, we teach Wu style taijiquan in accordance with late master Ma Jiangbao. The Wu style is a very well preserved and complete system and consists of many aspects. In this propedeutical course you will get a profound introduction into this system by studying Qigong (exercises to cultivate one’s internal energy), the Short Solo Form, and Tuishou (partner exercises). Wu style Taijiquan is guided by ‘five leading principles’: calmness, agility, slowness, precision, and perseverance. These facets have their influence on one’s center of gravity, physical structure, and body dynamics, and are extensively addressed as well. Although the main focus lies on learning the Short Solo Form, it is supplemented by Tuishou (pushing hands). These exercises are designed to develop your sensitivity and awareness. Tuishou embodies the application of taijiquan and teaches you how to neutralize and deflect the incoming force your partner exerts on you, without losing your own center. This only becomes possible if you observe the ‘five leading principle’, further integrating the system, and adding your personal development. The Wu tradition has constructed a very effective training program for this segment, and we start by teaching you the Single Hand Operations.
In the theory section you will get to know the Chinese perspective on life. You will be studying topics like Chinese philosophy, Chinese Medicine, and Internal Alchemy, including the way these have been integrated into the underlying theories of taijiquan. Taijiquan has been developed in China, and is thus a reflection of their believe system. Even so, their assumptions and outlook on life greatly differ from our Western culture. Therefore we deem it extremely important that the student becomes familiar with these theories and the way they are utilized in taijiquan. That’s why we mainly use Chinese sources, literature, and terminology. For the TBE these are: the Taijiquan Jing, Taijiquan Lun, Shisan Shi Xinggong Xin Jue, Shisan Shi Ge and the Da Shou Ge, collectively known as the ‘Five Core Classics of Taijiquan.’ On the basis of these Core Classics, we aim to provide you with the necessary knowledge to interpret taijiquan on its own merits and to be able to unlock its inner beauty. Not only does this approach make the Taijiquan Basic Education style non-specific, and also makes it accessible for everyone who wants to further their knowledge of this fascinating discipline.
Our study program follows a recurring structure. First, the general concept is studied, than the taijiquan specific interpretation. This is a conscious choice, and is done to make these foreign theories accessible for our Western mentality. Even though the study program is organized this way, one of our major aims still is on integrating them.
Chinese philosophy / cosmology
Taiji and natural law
Yin Yang
Sancai (3 Forces) / Sanbao (3 threasures)
Wuxing (5 Elements)
Concept of Qi (origin, types, quality, function)
Human physiology (basic substances, organ system, meridian system, mental faculties)
Bagua (8 Trigrams)
Theories concerning inner alchemy / self-cultivation
Theories concerning taijiquan strategies
The Taijiquan Basic Education makes use of the following books. The student must purchase these him/herself, (approximately 150 euro):
The Taijiquan Classics – An Annotated Translation (2004) by B. Davis ISBN-10: 1556434316 / ISBN-13: 978-1556434310
Wu-Stil Tai Ji Quan – Ma Jiangbao: Die Langsamen Formen (2008) by N.Wagner, W. Klüfer & B. Kasenda ISBN-10: 393233003X / ISBN-13: 978-3932330032
Wu Style Taichichuan Push-Hands (Tuishou) (1995) by Ma Yueh-liang & Zee Wen ISBN-10: 9622391001 / ISBN-13: 978-9622391000
To aid study by example, we use a DVD. This DVD is ordered by our college upon registration and handed over at the beginning of the course.
Wu Stil Tai Chi Chuan – Vörubungen and kurze Form by Ma Jiangbao ISBN:978-3-932330-33-9
In addition, the student will receive a very extensive syllabus (English).
An additional prerequisite to qualify for a certificate, is the attendance of at least two Student In-service Days and two Supplementary Training Days (of your own choosing), both of which are organized by our College.
Click here for our Student In-service Day program.
Or click here to go to our Supplementary Training program.
A test will be taken halfway through and at the end of each academic year. At least 80% of the program must be attended. Sufficient result is rewarded with a certificate and allows you admittance to our Professional Education program.
Bart Saris, Ilona van Lit, Mark Rusman, Richard Zwaart
English
Anyone interested
Minimum of 4 participants
1 to 1,5 hour per day
Nijmegen: 18 Saturdays annually (1x per two weeks) from 11.00-18.00
Date: January 27, 2018
Click here for the schedule.
€ 1895, this includes a syllabus, a DVD and two exams.
Secondary Education; mastery of the English language (written and spoken) is a plus.
To subscribe please use the Subscribe page .
