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| Sun Style
This is the most recent of the classical tai chi styles and was developed by Sun Lutang in the first half of the 20th century, based on his wide knowledge of other styles and internal Chinese martial arts. It is characterised by an upright posture and narrower stances, with the back foot often taking a nimble half step up to come closer to the leading one. There is less stress on the knees and hips than with other styles, and for these reasons it is favoured as a style more accessible to those with joint problems. Dr Paul Lam based his well known programmes for arthritis, diabetes, back pain etc on selected Sun style moves and we did at one time follow the diabetes programme which suited some of our members at the time.
The original classical long form has 97 movements and the more recent competition form 73, and there are also shorter 47 and 13 forms.
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| We stay with the original classical style as passed on by the daughter of the founder of the Sun style, Sun Lu Tang. Many of the You Tube videos show the more recent 73 but you can see the 97 in this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnTE12dQI8E&feature=related
To begin with you will simply learn the first section of the 97 which will show you how to
move the tai chi way, how to be light and yet steady or "rooted" at the same time, and help you teach your body to let go of its habitual tensions. There is enormous benefit to be gained simply be faithfully practising these few movements. As with all exercise though, you need to practice at home between classes to get the benefit.
As you progress you will be able to go on to some of the more challenging movements later in the sequence.
We are privileged to benefit from advice and occasional visits to and from the British master who learned from Sun Lu Tang's daughter in person. We are looking forward to a personal visit from him and/or his most senior instructor in February.
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