The Chen Xiaowang 38 Form is a condensed routine in Chen-style Tai Chi, created by Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang in the 1980s. It serves as an accessible introduction to the complexities of Chen Taijiquan, balancing traditional elements with a more streamlined structure.

Origins and Structure

Derived from the traditional Old Frame (Laojia Yilu) and New Frame (Xinjia Yilu) routines, which contain 75 and 83 movements respectively, the 38 Form was designed to simplify learning while preserving the essence of Chen-style Tai Chi. Grandmaster Chen eliminated repetitive and particularly challenging movements, focusing on key principles such as silk reeling (chan si jin), internal energy cultivation, and explosive power (fa jin) .

Key Features

  • Balanced Dynamics: The form integrates slow, fluid motions with sudden, powerful expressions, reflecting the yin-yang philosophy inherent in Tai Chi.

  • Silk Reeling Emphasis: Practitioners develop coiling movements that promote internal energy flow and coordination.

  • Four-Section Layout: The routine is divided into four sections, each comprising nine movements, facilitating structured learning and practice.

  • Martial Applications: Despite its simplified nature, the form retains practical self-defense techniques, making it suitable for both health and martial arts training.

 

List of movements:

1. Yu Bei Shi - Preparing the Form

2. Jin Gang Dao Dui - Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar

3. Bai He Liang Chi - The White Crane Spreads Its Wings

4. Shang San Bu - Stepping Forward Three Steps

5. Xie Xing - Walking Obliquely

6. Lou Xi - Brush Knee

7. Qian Tang Ao Bu - Wade Forward Twist Step on Both Sides

8. Yan Shou Hong Quan - The Fist of Covering Hand and Arm

9. Pie Shen Quan - The Punch of Draping Over Body

10. Shuang Tui Shou - Push with Both Hands

11. San Huan Zhang - Change Palms Three Times

12. Zhou Di Chuan - Fist Under Elbow

13. Dao Juan Hong - Step Back and Whirl Arms on Both Sides

14. Tui Bu Ya Zhou - Step Back and Press Elbow

15. Bai She Tu Xin - Beast Head Pose

16. Shan Tong Bei - Flash the Back

17. Qian Tang Ao Bu - Wade Forward and Twist Step on Both Sides

18. Qing Long Chu Shi - Green Dragon Comes Out of Water

19. Ji Di Chui - Punch of Hitting the Ground

20. Ti Er Qi - Double Raise Foot

21. Hu Xin Quan - The Fist of Protecting Heart

22. Qian Zhao - Forward Trick

23. Hou Zhao - Backward Trick

24. You Deng Yi Gen - Kick with Right Heel

25. Zuo Deng Yi Gen - Kick with Left Heel

26. Yu Nu Chuan Shuo - Jade Girl Works the Shuttles

27. Lan Zha Yi - Lazy About Tying the Coat

28. Liu Feng Si Bi - Six Sealing and Four Closings

29. Dan Bian - Single Whip

30. Que Di Long - The Dragon on the Ground

31. Shan Bu Qi Xing - Step Forward with Seven Stars

32. Xiao Qin Da - Small Catching and Hitting

33. Yun Shou - Wave Hands Like Clouds

34. Gao Tan Ma - High Pat On Horse

35. Shuang Bai Lian - Double Wave Lotus

36. Dang Tou Pao - The Cannon Right Overhead

37. Jin Gang Dao Dui - Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar

38. Tai Ji Shou Si - Closing Taiji Form