Customer Reviews

Chen Style Tai Chi Chuan [VHS]

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1 star:		(2)

 

 

The subject matter is treated in respectful manner, however the presentation is lacking. Video was scratchy(copy of copy) and narration was less than informative. Tseng-Yun Xiang performed the T'ai Chi form quickly then showed each hand, foot and body positions slowly while performing the form again. Though emphasis seemed to be on form, the performer was often off-balance and making body adjustments during execution. Recommend beginners find another video or get a local instructor.

I used this video to learn Chen form (without the benefit of a teacher). The tape quality seemed fine to me. It was easy to learn from - the camera zoomed in and out, showing every part of the body for every move. The movements were repeated, one by one and the form was shown a few times straight through. This is a nice tape. I still watch it just to get a feeling of the fluidity and power of the movements (hopefully to incorporate that into how I perform it).

Unfortunately, Tseng (who goes by the name of Chen), can only go through the motions of the Chen form.

His "fah jing" consists of fast movements that are not properly connected, and he offers no real connection to any real Chen style training source. He appears to be a generalist who has learned forms but has no real understanding of the Tai Chi taught by the Chen family.

It has been reliably reported that Tseng and his protege' (Bing) were unable to deal with a local , long time, well trained American Chen stylist.

Tseng only proves the adage that "Taoism needs Tai Chi, but Tai Chi does not need Taoism".

If you want real Chen style, please check out Chen Xiao Wang or his student Ren Guang Yi.