1. Preparation posture
Settle the body, release unnecessary effort, and stand with feet parallel at shoulder width.
The Short Form
The full Tai Chi short form, laid out as a student reference with room for future lesson videos.
Use this page to revisit the sequence, read the written guidance for each movement, watch the full demonstration, and return later as step-by-step teaching videos are added.
Demonstration
Watch the short form
This demonstration gives students the overall flow, pacing, and rhythm of the form. The written sequence below is there to help you remember what each movement is doing until the step-by-step lesson videos are added.
Full sequence
The written short form with placeholder video buttons for each movement
Each step below keeps the original instructional text in place. The disabled buttons show where individual lesson videos will sit once they are recorded and added.
1-8: Opening and grasp sparrow's tail foundations9-20: Core structure, brush knee, and return sequences21-39: Repulse monkey, cloud hands, kicks, and single hook work40-53: Closing sequences, punch, push, and cross hands
2. Beginning posture
Allow the arms to float up softly, then sink with steady breathing and grounded feet.
3. Ward off left
Rotate through the waist, keep shoulders relaxed, and maintain rooted balance.
4. Ward off right
Shift with continuity, keeping the joints open and movement unbroken.
5. Roll back
Receive and yield while keeping the spine lifted and the hips relaxed.
6. Press
Connect both hands with the turning of the waist rather than arm strength.
7. Push
Expand from the back and legs, then return to neutral without tension.
8. Single whip
Extend with structure and softness, maintaining even breath and stable stance.
9. Cloud hands
Move side to side with upright posture and synchronized stepping.
10. Closing form
Return to center, settle the breath, and finish in calm standing alignment.
FAQ
What is the Tai Chi short form?
The short form is a structured sequence of movements practised in a flowing order to develop balance, breathing, attention, and internal coordination.
Can beginners use this page?
Yes. Beginners can use it as a reference alongside classes, especially when they want to revisit names, order, and the feeling of a movement between lessons.
Will step-by-step videos be added?
Yes. Each movement includes a disabled placeholder so future teaching videos can be added without changing the structure of the page.
Start Here
Start with the free Friday introduction class
Use the form, WhatsApp, or email to ask about classes, availability, and the easiest way to begin. The free introduction class runs on Fridays from 7:00am to 8:00am.
- Teacher: James Godwin
- Location: Sedgefield, Garden Route, Western Cape
- Weekly intro class: Fridays, 7:00am to 8:00am
- Map: Open location
- WhatsApp: +27 79 495 5850