There are many legends of how Taijiquan started. The most widespread story, and my favorite, is this: Chang San Feng heard a noise outside his window at the temple. Looking out his window Feng observed a snake, head raised, hissing at a crane in a tree. The bird flew down to attack. The snake turned to fight, lunging at the neck of the crane. The crane, stabbing again and again with his beak but was unable to land a solid blow as the snake twisted and dodged to keep out of reach of the crane. From his observations, Feng learned the value of yielding in the face of strength. Studying the movements of the snake and crane Taijiquan was developed.

The written history is: Taijiquan was passed down to a family named Chen in the Henan province, and kept secret for fourteen generations. A young man named Yang Lu Chan learned of the Chen clan secret and traveled to Henan province. Spying on the clan’s training, Yang would practice in private. One night, Master Chen found Yang practicing. Impressed with Yang’s enthusiasm and skill Chen broke a 400-year tradition and accepted Yang as a disciple. At Silver Dragon Tai Chi of Colorado we proudly teach 108 Yang Taijiquan in a traditional manner.

You are welcome to visit to see our unique teaching and join a class, Sifu Mark