History of Tai Chi
History • Lineage • Masters
History Of Taichi
13th century
In the 13th century, a profound question arose in the mind of the chief physician to the Chinese Emperor
Humans, though gifted with intellect, were physically fragile, prone to disease, and burdened by anxiety. Animals, on the other hand, lived naturally—strong, healthy, fearless, and capable of self-defense.
Moved deeply by this realization, the physician Chang San Feng resigned from his prestigious position and retreated into the forests. There, in solitude and deep observation, he studied the movements, instincts, and lifestyles of animals and birds.
Through years of contemplation, Chang San Feng recognized a vital truth:
- Animals live in harmony with nature
- They are disciplined, instinctive, and free from stress
- Their natural way of living preserves strength and balance
Humans, however, weaken themselves through stress, lack of discipline, improper diet, and lifestyles disconnected from nature. These imbalances give rise to fear, illness, and inner conflict.
From this realization, Chang San Feng received what he believed to be a divine gift —a system designed to restore harmony between body, mind, and nature.
That gift was Tai Chi.
- Tai Chi was created as a practice to:
- Strengthen the body
- Calm the mind
- Restore natural balance
- Cultivate inner awareness and self-defense
History Of Yang Style Tai Chi
Yang Style Tai Chi is the most widely practiced form of Tai Chi in the world today.
It was founded in the mid-19th century by Yang Luchan (1799–1872), a legendary martial artist from Hebei Province, China. Yang Luchan originally learned Chen Style Tai Chi from the Chen family in Chenjiagou village.
Through years of mastery, refinement, and experience, Yang Luchan adapted the practice into a form that was:
- Softer and more flowing
- Accessible to a wider population
- Yet fully effective as a martial art
His extraordinary skill earned him the title:
“Yang the Invincible”
Thus, Yang Style Tai Chi was born—preserving martial integrity while emphasizing grace, balance, and internal strength.
Generations
Six Generations of Yang Style Tai Chi
Yang Luchan
Yang Banhou
Yang Jianhou
Yang Chengfu
Yang Zhenduo
Yang Jun
Yang Luchan
Founder of Yang Style Tai Chi. Learned Chen style, modified it to create a softer, more accessible form while retaining martial effectiveness. Known as “Yang the Invincible.”
Yang Banhou
Second son of Yang Luchan. Famous for a small-frame, highly martial version of Yang style, taught mainly to royal guards.
Yang Jianhou
Third son of Yang Luchan. Known for a gentler approach than his elder brother, making Tai Chi accessible to more students.
Yang Chengfu
Son of Yang Jianhou. Modernized Yang style into the large, open, and flowing form practiced worldwide today. Promoted Tai Chi for health and well-being.
Yang Zhenduo
Grandson of Yang Chengfu. Dedicated his life to spreading Yang Style Tai Chi internationally. Founded the International Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan Association.
Yang Jun
Great-great-grandson of Yang Luchan. Current lineage holder and president of the International Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan Association, continuing to promote Yang Style globally.