Chen Style Taijiquan
(陳式太極拳)
Chen Style Taijiquan (陳氏太極拳 – Chén Shì Tàijíquán) introduces students to an art that brings together martial skill, internal development, body mechanics, balance, and mindful movement. Rooted in the Chen family tradition, Chen Style Taijiquan is taught at ZYKFA by Shifu Patrick Rogne, who guides students in developing a deeper understanding of this distinctive martial arts system.
Recognized as the oldest established style of Taijiquan, Chen Style Taijiquan originated in Chenjiagou, Henan Province, China (The same region our Northern Shaolin was developed). It is traditionally associated with the Chen family and is distinguished by its combination of slow, controlled movements and sudden expressions of explosive power. Unlike the common perception of Taijiquan as exclusively a gentle or meditative exercise, Chen Style retains its identity as a comprehensive martial art, incorporating both internal cultivation and practical combat applications.
One of the defining characteristics of Chen Style Taijiquan is the interplay between softness and hardness, stillness and movement, and relaxation and explosive power. Its movements combine circular patterns, spiraling actions, changes of direction, and coordinated whole-body mechanics. Students learn to generate power through proper body alignment, rooted stances, waist coordination, and the connection between the upper and lower body.
A fundamental principle of Chen Style is Silk-Reeling Energy (纏絲勁 – Chánsī Jìn). This concept describes the continuous spiraling movement of the body, in which energy is coordinated through the waist, torso, limbs, and joints. Rather than relying on isolated muscular strength, practitioners learn to connect their movements into unified, fluid actions. This principle is essential to developing balance, coordination, structure, and effective martial power.
Chen Style Taijiquan also incorporates a variety of traditional training methods, including standing exercises, foundational movement drills, hand forms, weapons training, and partner exercises. These practices help students understand how the principles of Taijiquan translate into practical martial applications.
Beyond its martial applications, Chen Style Taijiquan offers a comprehensive approach to physical development. Consistent practice helps cultivate balance, flexibility, coordination, posture, body awareness, and controlled breathing. Its emphasis on relaxed movement, structural alignment, and mindful coordination makes it an art that can be studied and appreciated by practitioners of different ages and levels of physical ability.
We believe that Taijiquan is not simply about moving slowly or performing graceful sequences. It is about understanding the relationship between the body, movement, and intention. Through the study of Chen Style, students develop greater awareness of their physical capabilities while exploring the deeper principles of traditional Chinese martial arts.
Softness does not mean weakness, and strength does not require tension. Through balance, coordination, and continuous movement, we learn to cultivate both the art and the martial spirit of Taijiquan.
Classes are held on Thursdays from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM in our mezzanine area to provide a quieter and more seclude are for study directly with Shifu Patrick. Come by and try a class for FREE!
NOTE: ZYKFA members have these classes included in their monthly membership.
