Yang Style Taijiquan is the most commonly practiced form of Taijiquan and exhibits significant diversity in its subgroups and variations.

 

It was established by Yang Luchan, who developed his own style after studying the original Chen Taiji in Chen village. There is ongoing discussion regarding the extent and duration of Luchan's training in Chen village, and notably, Yang Taijiquan was the first style to be officially recognized by the term Taijiquan.

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The Chen School adopted this terminology much later, as the style was previously known as Pao Chui, or cannon fist. At Great River, we focus on two lineages of Yang Style Taijiquan: the Yangjia Michuan Taijiquan system, as transmitted by Wang Yen Nein, and Zheng Man Qing's modified version of the more widely practiced public form taught by Yang Cheng Fu.

 

Our curriculum includes push hands drills, san shou, and practical applications, ensuring that students not only master the solo form but also learn to apply the art effectively in a combative setting.

Rodell Laoshi is recognized as one of the leading authorities on traditional Chinese swordsmanship. This discipline is deeply rooted in the weaponry aspect of the Yanjia Michuan Style of Taijiquan, along with insights from other prominent Yang style Taijiquan masters, such as T.T. Liang, and Rodell's own extensive study of historical texts and manuals.

 

Classes are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their involvement in the empty hand aspect of the System; however, students are encouraged to engage in both disciplines, as the empty hand and weapons training complement each other.

 

The curriculum focuses on cultivating the five essential elements of Chinese swordsmanship: Basic Cuts/Technique, Solo Forms, Partner Drills, Test Cutting, and Freeplay/Sparring.

 

The System encompasses a variety of traditional swords and weapons, including the Jian (straight sword), Dao (Chinese Sabre), Miaodao/Dandao (two-handed sabre), Military Dadao, Chang Qian (long spear), and Qiang/Gun (spear/staff)