The Yang Style 8 Form (also known as the 10 Form) was was created in Beijing in 1999 and is popular for its simplicity. It is also symmetrical and requires little space to practice.
This form is a good introduction into the Yang style as is uses most of the key elements. An explanatory PDF document was produced by the can be found on the Oregon Research Institute (PDF).
Commencing form: Step to the left, lift hands, both hands rise to shoulder level and lower the arms.
- Repulse Monkey Right then left.
- Brush Knee left, Twist Step, Brush Knee right
- Twist Step, Part the Wild Horse's Mane left then Twist Step, Part the Wild Horse's Mane right.
- Move Hands Like Clouds Left side 2 times, then right 2 times
- Golden Cock Stands on One Leg right leg up, then left leg up
- Cross hands and Heel Kick right, then Heel Kick left
- Grasp the Bird's Tail right, Twist Step, Grasp the Bird's Tail left
- Cross Hands Embrace the Tiger
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A very detailed series of video instructions from Tai Chi iStudio called How to learn 8 Form Tai Chi is available on Youtube. |
Extended 8 Form
There is also the "Extended 8 Form" which adds 3 additional Yang syle movements. For reference here is an list of movements (PDF) and a practice audio file.Commencing form: Step to the left, lift hands, both hands rise to shoulder level and lower the arms.
- Repulse Monkey Right then left.
- Brush Knee left, Twist Step, Brush Knee right
- Twist Step, Part the Wild Horse's Mane left then Twist Step, Part the Wild Horse's Mane right.
- Move Hands Like Clouds Left side 2 times, then right 2 times
- Golden Cock Stands on One Leg right leg up, then left leg up
- Cross hands and Heel Kick right, then Heel Kick left
- Single Whip, right and left
- Snake Creeps Down, right and left
- Fair Lady Works the shuttles right and left
- Grasp the Bird's Tail right, Twist Step, Grasp the Bird's Tail left
- Cross Hands Embrace the Tiger
Mirror view tutorial by Ric Bolzan
Video from Tai Chi iStudio
Video of rear view by Qiu Huifang.
Video featuring Gao Jiamin