Authentic Wu Style Tai Chi

Author: Wu Yinghua
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1999-04-01
Features: Chapter: Overview of the Zhang Style Tai Chi
Section: Introduction to Zhang Style Tai Chi
Zhang Style Tai Chi was founded by Mr. Quanyou, a Manchu. Quanyou learned Tai Chi from Yang Luchan, with classmates Wan Chun and Ling Shan. At Yang Luchan's request, Quanyou became a disciple of his second son, Yang Banhou, but in reality, he was still taught directly by Yang Luchan. After years of diligent study and practice, the three each achieved different strengths: Wan Chun mastered the hard style, Ling Shan excelled in delivering force, while Quanyou was particularly skilled in softness and transformation, each embodying a different aspect of their master's teachings.
The son of Mr. Quanyou, Mr. Wu Jianquan (his surname "Wu" is a transliteration of the Manchu name), was fond of martial arts from a young age and was adept at horseback riding and archery, as well as the skill of hiding in the stirrup. Under his father's guidance, he became increasingly proficient in Tai Chi.