Sun Style of T'ai Chi Ch'uan

Standard Competition 73 Movements Form

Research by Michael P. Garofalo

April 27, 2008

This webpage is currently being developed by Mike; it will be completed by 7/1/2008.

Huo Bu Jia Taijiquan - The Taijiquan Form of the Flowing Steps

Kai He Huo Bu Taijiquan - The Opening Closing Active Step Taijiquan Form

Introduction
Sun Style Taijiquan 73 Movements Competition Form
By Michael P. Garofalo, M.S.

Welcome to the Sun Taijiquan 73 Competition Form webpage. I hope this webpage will benefit you in your study of this beautiful and lively Sun Taijiquan Form. I welcome your comments, feedback and suggestions. This webpage is currently undergoing daily development, sections are being converted into the PDF format, and the webpage should be completed by the end of July, 2008.

I first learned the Sun Taijiquan 73 Form by using instructional DVDs or VHS media produced by Taijiquan masters like Paul Lam, Jesse Tsao, Jiang Jian-ye, Lee De Yin, Guangzhi Xing. and Liang Shou-Yu. I found the book and DVD titled "The Competition Routine of Sun Style Taijiquan," edited by Zhong Shan, to be of great benefit. I have benefited from reading books and articles by Sun Lu Tang, Tim Cartmell, Paul Tam, Zhong Shan, Sun Jian Yun, and others. Viewing and studying UTube and Google videos has sometimes been useful. I have also benefited from some direct personal instruction from two Sun Taijiquan teachers: Paul Lam, and Troyce Thome. I was certified to teach Tai Chi for Arthritis, which makes use of the 11 and 30 movement Sun Style Taijiquan forms developed by Paul Lam, M.D.. I look forward to learning more in the future through my daily practice, research, study, correspondence, workshops, seminars, teaching, and occasional private lessons.

Since personal instruction in the Sun Taijiquan 73 Competition Form or 98 Classical Form, from a qualified teacher or Taijiquan master, is very difficult to obtain in the United States, most Taijiquan enthusiasts in the USA will need to learn the basics of the Sun Taijiquan 73 Form on their own. People, like me, who live in less populated rural areas, are extremely unlikely to have access to a Sun Taijiquan teacher for regular instruction. Fortunately, using the many outstanding media resources now readily available will make the task of learning the basics of the Sun Taijiquan 73 Form on your own much easier. Since there are many more media resources for learning the Sun Taijiquan 73 Competition Form than for learning the Sun Taijiquan Classical 98 Form, it is wiser to begin with learning the 73 Form. I have provided suggestions regarding what I have found to be the best video and print instructional resources for learning the Sun Taijiquan 73 Form below. After you know the form well and wish to significantly advance your knowledge and skill, or wish to compete in Taijiquan tournaments, you will then need to train daily and diligently, get in top physical condition, and seek coaching from a Sun Taijiquan master. Keep in mind the advice of Zhong Shan,

"With the development of information technology, the learners should further enhance their knowledge and perfect their skills through reading books and using the multimedia resources, such as video tapes and VCDs. Sometimes, to some extent, you can master the competition routines even without a coach in person. Quite a number of people are known to have learned and practice Tai Ji Quan by using the multimedia teaching materials and some even won places in competitions besides keeping fit. But of course, if given a chance, it is always more beneficial to learn personally from masters."
- The Competition Routine of Sun Style Tai Ji Quan, Edited by Zhong Shan, p. 138.

Best Wishes,

Michael P. Garofalo
Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way, Red Bluff, California
April 2008

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Historical Background
Sun Style Taijiquan Original 98 Movements Form and the 73 Movements Competition Form

Grandmaster Sun Lu-Tang (1861-1933), was already a master of the internal martial arts of Bagua Quan and Hsing Yi Quan, an experienced fighter, a renowned author and teacher, and very familiar with many other external and internal martial arts styles before he began a more detailed study of Taijiquan. In 1911, Sun Lu-Tang learned Wu Yu-xiang style of Taijiquan from Hao Wei-Chen (1849-1920). By around 1916, Sun Lu-Tang had created his own version of a Taijiquan bare hand form; and, it is reported, performed his own Taijiquan form every day until he died. In 1921, Sun Lu-Tang published his book "A Study of Taijiquan."

Grandmaster Sun Lu Tang was one of the first persons to write and publish books on all three of the core "internal" Chinese martial arts (i.e., Xing Yi Quan, Ba Gua Quan, and Tai Ji Quan), one of the first persons to openly teach both men and women these three arts in some major cities in China, and one of the first persons to actively and publicly promote the non-martial aspects of these arts to help improve health and fitness, moral character, and spiritual insight. Sun Lutang's books Xing Yi Quan Xue: The Study of Form-Mind Boxing (1915), Baguazhang (1916), and A Study of Taijiquan (1921) were influential early works about the internal martial arts (Nei Jia Quan). His teaching and writing helped interest many modern "Scholar Warriors" in the many interrelations (both real and imagined) between the internal martial arts and Wudang and Emei Taoism, Daoyin (Qigong), Shaolin Buddhism, and traditional Chinese medicine and philosophy (e.g., I Ching, Five Elements, Ba Gua).

Sun Lu Tang says, "There is great emphasis on the method of cultivating the body. All people - men, women, the old, the young - may practice in order to replace temerity with bravery, and stiffness with pliability. Those who are extremely weak, who suffer from fatigue and injury or illness, or who have weakened your qi from the practice of other martial arts to the point that you no longer have the strength to train, all of you may practice Tai Ji Quan. With practice, the qi will quickly come to a balanced state and will become strong, while the spirit naturally returns to a state of wholeness. Disease will be eliminated, and the length of life increased." (A Study of Taijiquan, 1924, p. 60).

Sun Lu-Tang's 1921 book, A Study of Taijiquan, was not very detailed in terms of descriptions of the movements, and there were relatively few photographs in the book, and usually only one black and white photograph of Sun Lu-Tang was provided for each movement. As with most Taijiquan forms, as the years passed after 1921, various Sun Taijiquan teachers modified movements and sequencing of the original 98 movement Sun Taijiquan form. Sun Lu-Tang's many fine students continued to teach the Sun Taijiquan 98 Movement Form long after his death. Three members of the Sun family taught the Sun Style of Taijiquan: his son, Sun Cunzhou, his daughter Sun Jian-Yun, and his granddaughter, Sun Shurong. By the late 1980's there were a number of versions of the Sun Taijiquan forms. This situation, of course, presented problems for those judging Taijiquan "competition" events.

In 1988, the National Wushu Sports Taijiquan Committee in China established a sub-committee to develop a standard Sun style of Taijiquan hand form for use as the international Sun Taijiquan competition form. The sub-committee was led by the expert chairperson, Professor Men Hui-Feng (1936-) of Beijing University. The sub-committee did a careful study of the original 98 movement hand form created by Grandmaster Sun Lu-Tang, and published in his 1921 book titled "The Study of Taijiquan." The knowledgeable members of this committee also consulted with Sun Lu-Tang's daughter, Sun Jian-Yun, and with many other experts on and teachers of the Sun Lu Tang Style of Taijiquan. The committee finished its research, created the new Sun 73 Taijiquan International Competition Form, obtained higher level review and approvals, and finally published in 1991 the Sun 73 Taijiquan Competition Form, in both print and media versions.

Nearly 74% of the movement sequences in the Sun Taijiquan International Competition 73 Movements Form are identical to the original 1921 Sun Taijiquan 98 Movement Form. Kicking remains about the same, although the 73 Form has a double jump kick (Movement #35) not found in the original 98 Form. For the main purpose of a standardized international competition form, the new 1991 Sun Style Taijiquan 73 Competition Form has been judged by a number of martial arts experts as a reasonable and fair representation of Sun Lu Tang's Taijiquan in terms of style, techniques used, sequence, stances, postures, pace, and spirit.

"The Sun Style Competition Form was completed in 1991, in response to the lack of uniformity in content and structure of the traditional routine when it comes to competition. The competition form is, therefore, introduced with the intention to standardize its movements and raise standards of Taijiquan competition. It must be said that there has been a great deal of investigation, research and consultation put into the process of compiling the form, as was the case in compiling many other competition forms. This routine has been favorably received by athletes, coaches and judges."
- Faye Yip (Li)

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List of Movements
Sun Style Taijiquan 73 Movements Standard International Competition Form

List of Movements: 1-73 Sun 73 Form. One name, in English, for each of the numbered 73 movements is provided. (PDF, 17 Kb, 1 Page, 2003)

List of Movements: 1-38 Sun 73 Form. One name, in English, for each of the numbered movements 1-38 is provided. (PDF, 15 Kb, 1 Page, 2003)

List of Movements: 39-73 Sun 73 Form. One name, in English, for each of the numbered movements 39-73 is provided. (PDF, 15 Kb, 1 Page, 2003)

List of Movements: 1-73 Sun 73 Form. One name, in English, for each of the 73 numbered movements is provided. Resource links are included. (PDF, 26 Kb, 3 Pages, 2008)

List of Movements: 1-73 Sun 73 Form. The number and name for each of the 73 movements is provided. Names are given in English, Chinese, and Chinese characters. Resource links are included. (PDF, 133 Kb, 4 Pages, 2008)

List of Movements: 1-73 Sun 73 Form. The number and name for each of the 73 movements is provided. Names are given in English, Chinese, Chinese characters, French, German and Spanish. Reference sources for the names for each of the 73 movements are cited. Alternative names are cited. Resource links are included. Research by Michael P. Garofalo, M.S.. (PDF, 284Kb, 31 Pages, 2008)

List of Movements, Sun Lu Tang's Original Long Hand Form, 98 Movements, 1921 (PDF, 18Kb, 1 Page, 2003)

Slide Show of Sun Lu Tang Performing the Sun 97 Taijiquan Form

1. Wu Ji Becomes Tai Ji (Wu Ji Bian Tai Ji) 无极变太极

Commencing Form (Qi Shi : 起势) [Zhong 2003]
Commencement Form [Lam 2000]
A Study of Wu Ji [Sun Lu Tang 1924, #1]
A Study of Tai Chi [Sun Lu Tang 1924, #2]
Commencing Posture [Sun Jian Yun 2003, #1]
Wu Ji Becomes Tai Ji [Garofalo 2008]
Wu Ji Devient Tai Ji (French)
Wu Ji Wird Tai Ji   (German)
Wu Ji Se Convierte Tai Ji   (Spanish)
无极变太极 : Wu Ji Bian Tai Ji : Wu Ji Becomes Tai Chi
Beginning Posture
Maintien Commen�ant
Anfangenlage
Postura Que Comienza
起式 : Qi Shi : Beginning Posture
无极 : Wu Ji : Everlasting, unbounded, not limited, not finalized, not fixed, indescribable.
变 : Bian : Change, transform, alter, become.
太极 : Tai Ji : Absolute or extreme ultimate, the source of all things.

2. Lazily Tying Clothes (Lan Zha Yi) 懶扎衣

Tuck in Robes (Lan Zha Yi: 掖扎衣) [Zhong 2003]
Leisurely Tying Coat [Lam 2000]
Lazily Tying Back the Clothes [Sun Lu Tang 1924, #3]
Too Lazy to Tie Coat [Sun Jian Yun 2003, #2]
Lazily Tying Clothers [Garofalo 2008]
Attacher Paresseux Des V�tements
Kleidung Faul Binden
Perezoso Atar Las Ropas
懶扎衣 : Lan Zha Yi : Lazily Tying Back the Clothes
懒惰栓衣裳 : Lazily Tying Clothes

3. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Open Hands [Zhong 2003]
Opening Hands [Lam 2000]
Opening Hands [Sun Lu Tang 1924, #4]
Open Hands [Sun Jian Yun 2003, #3]
Opening Hands [Garofalo 2008]
Mains D'Ouverture
�ffnung H�nde
Manos de la Abertura
开手 : Kai Shou

Comparable information for each of the following movement names may be found in an Internet published 33 page PDF document. You can read and print nicely from the published PDF file. It will save some file space in this document.

List of Movements: 1-73 Number and name for each of the 73 movements is provided. Names are given in English, Chinese, Chinese characters, French, German and Spanish. Reference sources for the names for each of the 73 movements are cited. Alternative names are cited. Resource links are included. Research by Michael P. Garofalo, M.S.. (PDF, 295Kb, 33 Pages, 2008)

4. Closing Hands

5. Single Whip Left

6. Lifting Hands

7. White Swan Cools Its Wings

8. Opening Hands

9. Closing Hands

10. Brush Left Knee and Twist Step

Section 1, Movements 1 - 10

Section 2, Movements 11 - 20

11. Hand Strums the Lute

12. Advance, Deflect, Parry, and Punch

13. Apparent Close Up (Ru Feng Si Bi) 如封似闭

Apparent Close Up [Zhong 2003]
Apparent Closing Up [Lam 2000]
Appearing to Seal and Close [Sun Lu Tang 1924, #14]
Step Back and Block [Sun Jian Yun 2003, #13]
Apparent Close Up [Garofalo 2008]
Apparent Close and Push
�troit Apparent et Pouss�e
Offensichtliches Nahes und Sto�
Cercano Evidente y Empuje
如封似闭 : Ru Feng Si Bi : Apparent Close Up
Appearing to Seal and Close
Sembler Sceller et Se Ferment
Das Scheinen zu Versiegeln und Schlie�en
El Aparecer Sellar y Se Cierra
看上去密封和关闭 : Appearing to Seal and Close

Comparable information for each of the following movement names may be found in a 33 page PDF document. You can read and print nicely from this PDF file. It will save some file space in this document.

14. Carry Tiger and Push Mountain

15. Opening Hands

16. Closing Hands

17. Brush Right Knee and Twist Step

18. Lazily Tying Clothes

19. Opening Hands

20. Closing Hands

Section 2, Movements 11 - 20

Section 3, Movements 21 - 30

21. Single Whip Left

22. Fist Under Elbow

23. Repulse Monkey Left

24. Repulse Monkey Right

25. Brush Left Knee and Twist Step

26. Lazily Tying Clothes Left

27. Opening Hands

28. Closing Hands

29. Single Whip Right

30. Cloud Hands Right

Section 3, Movements 21 - 30

Section 4, Movements 31 - 40

31. High Pat on Horse

32. Kick Left Foot

33. Kick Right Foot

34. Step Forward and Punch Down

35. Turn Over Body and Double Jump Kick

36. Diagonal Subdue Tiger

37. Toe Kick Left

38. Spin, Right Heel Kick

39. Advance, Deflect, Parry and Punch (Jin Bu Ban Lan Chui) 进步搬拦捶

Advance, Parry and Punch [Zhong 2003]
Step Forward to Deflect Downwards, Parry and Punch [Lam 2000]
Advance Step, Deflect, Parry and Punch [Sun Lu Tang 1924, #47]
Step Forward, Parry and Punch [Sun Jian Yun 2003, #46]
Advance, Deflect, Parry and Punch [Garofalo 2008]
Deflect, Parry and Punch
Guidez, Parez et Poin�onnez
Lenken Sie ab, Whren Sie ab und Lochen Sie
Desv�e, Parry y Perfore
进步搬拦捶 : Jin Bu Ban Lan Chui : Step Forward, Parry Block and Punch

Comparable information for each of the following movement names may be found in a 33 page PDF document. You can read and print nicely from the PDF file. It will save some filespace in this document.

40. Apparent Close Up

Section 4, Movements 31 - 40

Section 5, Movements 41 - 50

41. Carry Tiger and Push Mountain

42. Opening Hands

43. Closing Hands

44. Brush Left Knee and Twist Step

45. Lazily Tying Clothes

46. Opening Hands

47. Closing Hands

48. Diagonal Single Whip

49. Parting the Wild Horse's Mane

50. Lazily Tying Clothes

Section 5, Movements 41 - 50

Section 6, Movements 51 - 60

51. Opening Hands

52. Closing Hands

53. Single Whip Left

54. Cloud Hands Left

55. Cloud Hands, Lowering

56. Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg (Jin Ji Du Li) 金鸡独立

Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg [Zhong 2003]
Golden Cock Standing on One Leg [Lam 2000]
Rooster Standing on One Leg [Sun Lu Tang 1924, #71]
Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg [Sun Jian Yun 2003, #69]
Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg [Garofalo 2008]
Le Coq D'or se Tient sur une Jambe
Der Goldene Hahn Steht auf einem Bein
El Gallo de Oro Est� Parado en Una Pierna
金鸡独立 : Jin Ji Du Li : Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg

Comparable information for each of the following movement names may be found in a 33 page PDF document. You can read and print nicely from the PDF file. It will save some filespace in this document.

57. Fan Through the Back

58. Jade Lady Works the Shuttles

59. High Pat on Horse

60. Cross Hands and Slap Kick

Section 6, Movements 51 - 60

Section 7, Movements 61 - 73

61. Step Forward, Punch Groin

62. Stepping, Lazily Tying Clothes

63. Opening Hands

64. Closing Hands

65. Single Whip Left

66. Single Whip and Lowering Down

67. Step Up to the Seven Stars

68. Step Back and Ride the Tiger

69. Turn Body, Swinging Lotus Kick

70. Bend the Bow and Shoot the Tiger

71. Double Crashing Fists Strike

72. Uniting Yin and Yang

73. Returning to Wu Ji

Section 7, Movements 61 - 73

Sources for the Names of the Movements of the Sun Taijiquan 73 Competition Form:

[Zhong 2003] The Competition Routine of Sun Style Taijiquan. Zhong Shan, Chief Editor. Wu Don, Executive Editor. Li Wei, Editor of English Version. Published in Beijing, China, 2003. 151 pages. ISBN: 7537720851.

[Lam 2000] Sun Style Tai Chi - 73 Forms. The Competition Forms. An instructional videotape by Dr. Paul Lam. Narwee, Australia, East Action Video, 2000.

[Sun Lu Tang 1924] A Study of Taijiquan. By Sun Lutang. Translated by Tim Cartmell. North Atlantic Books, 2003. 160 pages. ISBN: 1556434626. Translation based on a 1924 text. This form presented in this book is not the 73 Form; it is the classical Sun Taijiquan 98 Form.

[Sun Jian Yun 2003] Sun's Style Tai Chi Chuan. By Master Sun Jian-yun and Master Paul Lam (Tam Fung-ngar Paul). Translated by Peter Chan and Leung Ming-yuen. Published by Peter Chan and Co., Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2003. 141 pages. Distributed by Plum Publications. Hong Kong Registry No. 962-8665111. This form presented in this book is not the 73 Form; it is the classical Sun Taijiquan 97 Form.

[Garofalo 2008] Sun Style of T'ai Chi Ch'uan: Standard Competition 73 Movements Form. Research by Michael P. Garofalo, M.S.. Webpage: 350Kb, May 2008.

Sun Style Taijiquan, 73 Competition Form, List of Movements: 1-73 (PDF, 131 Kb, 4 Pages) Number and name of movement in English, Chinese Pinyin and Chinese Characters, and resource links

Note: I used the following resources to prepare the translations found on this webpage. The best resource I have found online for working with Chinese and English translations is the MDBG Chinese-English Dictionary. I used the AltaVista Babel Fish Translation Service to translate from English into French, German and Spanish. I once started an online glossary for Sun Lu Tang's Internal Martial Arts. I also use a variety of internal martial arts books and online resources which provide similar charts, lists, and glossaries in varied languages. The book "The Competition Routine of Sun Style Taijiquan," by the Chief Editor, Zhong Shan, was especially useful. I welcome your suggestions and contributions for improving the translations or providing translations into other languages.

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Instructions
Sun Style Taijiquan, 73 Movements International Standard Competition Form

Section 1, Movements 1 - 10

Section 2, Movements 11 - 20

Section 3, Movements 21 - 30

Section 4, Movements 31 - 40

Section 5, Movements 41 - 50

Section 6, Movements 51 - 60

Section 7, Movements 61 - 73

Section 1, Movements 1 - 10
Sun Style Taijiquan, 73 Movements Standard International Competition Form

List of Movements: 1-38

Section 1, Movements 1 - 10 This chart provides, for each movement, the number of the movement, the name of the movement, the final direction to face for each movement, a very brief description of the movement, and the summary chart (below) for movements 1-10. (PDF, 91 Kb, 2 Pages, 2008)

1. Wu Ji Becomes Tai Ji (Wu Ji Bian Tai Ji) 无极变太极

Name: Commencing Form (Qi Shi : 起式), Wu Ji then Tai Ji, Standing in Wuji and Opening Move, Commencing Form of Taiji (Taiji Qi Shi), A Study of Wu Ji and Tai Ji. 无极变太极 : Wu Ji Bian Tai Ji : Wu Ji Becomes Tai Chi.

Begin at position 1a, with the waist facing N12. Relax (Sung), clear the mind, calm the spirit, be present here and now. Stand at attention with the arms at the sides (1a). The heels are touching and the toes are pointed outwards slightly, so that the feet make a V shape (1a). The crown of the head is lifted. The shoulders are relaxed. Root and center oneself. This (1a) is the position of Wuji.

Description of movement sequence: Turn the right toe inward, and turn body towards NW11 (1a-1b). Raise the hands up with the fingers pointing down (1b). As as the hands move to about chest height (1b-1c) the fingers point forward (1c). Draw the hands in towards the body, and lower the hands to the Dan Tien level (1c-1d). Bend the knees slightly (1c). Lift both arms up, keeping them close to the body, to about chest height with the finders pointing forward (1d-1e). Shift the weight into the right leg (1d-1e) and step forward towards NW11 with the left foot, heel first (1d-1e) Draw the right toe forward until the right toe is next to and behind the left (1f). As the right leg moves forward, push both hands forward towards NW11 (1e-1f). The waist and chest face in the direction of NW11.

The movement sequence from 1d-1f, stepping forward with one leg and then following with the other leg is common in Sun Taijiquan. It is referred to as "Step and Follow Step" or "Follow Step." The first leg steps and the heel is placed first. The second leg steps with the toe. The knees are slightly bend. The torso is upright and poised. The back toe is placed so that it touches the ground next to and slightly behind the front foot, back toe near front heel. The knees are slightly bent.

Most authorities identify position 1a with "Commencing Form" and with Movement #1. Most authorities combine the movements 1b-1f with 2a-2e and call them all "Lazily Tying Clothes" (1b-2e), or Movement #2. I differ from the authorities about what constitutes movements #1 and #2.

I call positions 1a-1f, Movement #1, and give its name as "Wu Ji Becomes Tai Ji." In my opinion, position 1a represents Wu Ji: the empty state, the primordial fecund condition, that which cannot be named, the undifferentiated, Oneness, before the Big Bang, Zero, outside space and time, motionlessness, Wu. The body rises up and the hands circle up and down in positions 1b-1d, the typical opening move of raising the hands and lowering the hands of nearly all taijiquan forms, which represents: the opening, the differentiation into Yin and Yang, creation, emergence, the creation of complimentary forces, the essential beginning of space/time/being, Beginnings, the Grand Ultimate, the definitions of limits, the Tai Ji. The rising up and stepping forward and pushing forward (1d-1f) represent: the power of the universe, the five elements, the Bagua, the I Ching, complexity, evolution, the emergence of the ten-thousand things, will and intention, saying "Yes" to life, and the assertion of spirit. This is why I call this sequence (1a-1f) of movements "Wu Ji Becomes Tai Ji." I also think that this opening movement, Movement #1, Wu Ji Becomes Tai Ji, coordinates and blends well with the final two movements of the 73 Form, that is, Movement #72, Uniting Yin and Yang, and Movement #73, Returning to Wu Ji. This is how I interpret this sequence of moves, and this lifts my spirits. I find it charming and meaningful. Knowing of Sun Lu Tang's penchant for Taoist philosophy, I think he might smile and have some sympathy with my fanciful ideas. If you like, of course, you may also think that these movements (1b-1f) represent or are called or are part of "Lazily Tying the Clothes" (1b-1e). Indeed, I am probably just lazily trying to tie some ideas around the body of a dance.

"Creation and reversion are both expressed in Taiji quan forms. Practitioners begin by standing motionless and being free of thought [1a], then move in symbolic separation of yin and yang, lifting the hands as yang energy rises to create Heaven [1b] and lowering them [1d] as yin energy sinks to create Earth. Like the creation of the myriad beings, the movements transform from posture to posture without pause. In the end, the hands drop and the feet come together [72b]. Practitioners find stillness and return to formlessness [73c]."
- Daoist Body Cultivation, Edited by Livia Kohn, 2006, p. 195.

2. Lazily Tying Clothes (Lan Zha Yi) 懶扎衣

Name: Tuck in Robes (Lan Zha Yi), Leisurely Tying Clothes, Lazily Tying Back the Clothes, Lazily Tying Clothes : Lan Zha Yi : 懶扎衣.

Position 2a = 1f. Many authorities say that the movement sequence of 1b-2e is all part of Lazily Tying Clothes. However, other instances of Lazily Tying Clothes in the 73 Form, namely Movements 18, 26, and 45, all look rather like 2a-2e with the addition of drawing the hands down before striking with the fingers (26b-26d), then circling back and to the side and then striking forward with the palm along with a follow step (26d-26f) or (2c-2e).

Description of movement sequence: From position 2a = 1f, rotate the arms at chest height in a clockwise manner towards the right side (2a-2c). The arms circle in a clockwise manner at chest height from left to right about 240� (2a-2c). Pivot on the left heel, then step back slightly with the right foot (2b) and position the right foot with toes facing E3. The left fingers touch the forearm of the right hand (2c). The right hand faces up, and left hand faces down (2c). The right hand makes a small clockwise inward circle and is drawn to the chest (2c-2d). Step forward with the right leg, heel first, and place the right foot facing E3 (2c-2d). As the weight moves into the right leg, the right hand moves forward, fingers up, towards E3 (2d-2e). Follow step with the left toe (2d-2e). The movement from 2d-2e is one continuous and coordinated movement with right hand moving forward as the left foot follow steps. At position 2d, the waist is facing E3.

Slide Show of Sun Lu Tang Performing the Sun 97 Taijiquan Form.

3. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Name: Open Hands (开手 : Kai Shou), Opening Hands.

From 3a = 2e, turn the body to the left, 90� counterclockwise, to bring the front of the body to face N12 (3b). Move both hands to the left and bring the hands in front of body at chest height (3a-3b). Turn the right foot on the heel until both feet are facing N12 (3a-3b). Fingers are pointing up (3b). Palms face each other (3b). The hands are relaxed and the fingers are gently spread apart, and the thumbs point towards one another and are held about 2 inches apart (3b). Exhale gently through the nose while moving from 3a to 3b. The hands move from the side position (3a) until the hands are about shoulder width apart (3b), and then gently move towards each other (3b) until both hands hands are separated by about 6-8 inches or about the width of your head (3b). From position 3b, as you breathe in through the nose, gently and slowly move the hands apart (3b-3c). Keep the fingers pointing up and palms facing each other. Stop opening the hands when they are about shoulder width apart (3c). Keep your body standing tall, back straight. The knees are slightly bent. At position 3c, the waist is facing N12.

Moving from 3b to 3c is the act of "Opening Hands" (Kai Shou) and is an essential qigong move of Sun Taijiquan, and part of the essential transitional move between postures of the Sun Taijiquan Form.

Sun Lu Tang says, "The hands feel as if they are holding on to a balloon, and as the air in the balloon increases, the hands are slowly moved apart. The two thumbs are about an inch or two away from the chest. Move the hands apart until the tiger's mouth [i.e, the are from the inside tip of the index finger to the inside tip of the thumb] of each hand are in front of the shoulders, at shoulder height. The five fingers are separated. Pause for a moment." - A Study of Taijiquan, 1924, 2003, p. 81.

In photos of Sun Lu Tang in position 3e, his left heel is slightly raised; but other current 73 Form instructors have you keep both feet flat on the floor in Opening Hands. Instructors vary in how much distance to keep between the feet when doing Opening and Closing Hands. Sun Lu Tang keeps his feet close together (3b), while other instructors place the feet a comfortable distance apart (6" to 15").

Breathe in through the nose when opening hands. Stand up straight. Hold the head erect (3b-3c). Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium.

4. Closing Hands (He Shou) 合手

Name: Close Hands (合手 : He Shou), Closing Hands, Draw Hands Together.

Move the hands from about shoulder width apart (4a = 3e) to about 6-8 inches apart (4b). This movement is called Closing Hands (He Shou). Gently breathe out through the nose when closing hands (4a-4b). Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium.
At position 4b, the waist is facing N12.

Moving from 4a to 4b is the act of "Closing Hands" (He Shou) and is the essential qigong move of Sun Taijiquan, and part of the essential transitional move between postures of the Sun Taijiquan Form.

In photos of Sun Lu Tang in position 4b, his left heel is slightly raised; but other current 73 Form instructors have you keep both feet flat on the floor in Closing Hands.

Sun Lu Tang says, "Lift the right toes off the ground and, pivoting on the right heel like an axle, turn your body to the left. As you turn, turn your right toes inward until they point directly forward. This turning movement must be done with the qi united, in one smooth movement without pauses or breaks. The jing must be balanced; do not use brute force. As you turn, the two hands maintain the position as if holding a balloon, as they close back together. The hands close until the thumbs are about an inch apart. The palms of the hands are empty, and they maintain the position as if holding a ball. The legs are bent. The right sole is placed flat on the ground and the left heel is lifted, with the ball of the foot on the ground. There must not be the slightest use of force in the entire body."
- A Study of Taijiquan, 1924, 2003, p. 82.

The Opening Hands (Kai Shou) and Closing Hands (He Shou) movements are repeated 9 times in the 73 Form at # 3/4, 8/9, 15/16, 19/20, 27/28, 42/43, 46/47, 51/52, and 63/64.

"Sun Shi Tai Ji has a very specific figure; Kai He (to open - to close) which is found neither in other forms of Tai Ji, nor in Ba Gua or Xing Yi. This Kai He appears with each connection and transition. It makes it possible to control and adjust breathing and to accumulate the Shi (energy potential) in order to prepare for the next change."
- Master Bob Melia, Sun Shi Tai Chi

5. Single Whip Left (Dan Bian Zou) 单鞭左

Name: Single Whip Left (单鞭左 : Zou Dan Bian), Single Whip to the Left Side (Dan Bian Zhou), Single Whip.

From position 4b = 5a, step out with left leg towards W9 (5a-5b). Open both of the the arms to sides, right hand towards E3 and left hand towards W9, with the fingers of both hands pointing upward (5a-5b). Look first at the left hand, then at the right hand (5b). Both arms are extended at about shoulder height (5b). End in 5b with left leg bent with 70% of weight in left left, in a left side bow stance. Gaze at the right hand (5b). At position 5b, the waist is facing N12.

In the Sun Style of Taijiquan, Single Whip always follows Opening Hands and Closing Hands (i.e., Movements 5, 21, 29, 48,53, and 65). In the Yang Style of Taijiquan, the Single Whip always follows the movement called "Grasping the Sparrow's Tail."

6. Lifting Hands (Ti Shou) 提手

Name: Lift Hands and Step Up (Ti Shou Shang Shi); Lifting Hands (提手 : Ti Shou); Step In and Lift Hands; Raise Hands and Step Forward.

Step back to the right side towards W9 with the right foot, bringing it back next to the to the left foot (6a-6b) placing the right toe on the ground (6b). The right hand circles downward towards the waist (6a-6b). The left hand circles upwards (6a-6b) to a position slightly above the head with the palm facing towards N12 (6b). The right fingers point downward (6b), right thumb facing the Dan Tien, the right little finger facing forward. The left hand is about at forehead height, palm facing N12, left palm open (6b). At position 6b, the waist is facing N12.

7. White Swan Cools Its Wings (Bai He Liang Chi) 白鹤凉翅

Name: White Crane Spreads Wings (白鹤凉翅 : Bai He Liang Chi); White Crane Flashing Its Wings: White Swan Cools Its Wings

Slide the right hand up the body and raise it slightly above the head, with the palm facing forward towards N12 (7a-7b). The left hand moves from the forehead (7a = 6b) along the mid-line of the body down to the waist (7b). Step forward with the right heel (7b-7c). Draw both hands to about chest height (7c) with the palms facing forward (7c). Push forward with both hands, palms facing N12 (7d). Follow step with the left foot to a left toe stance with the left foot slightly behind the right heel (7d). At position 7d, the waist is facing N12. Don't move the head up and down very much.

Sun Lu Tang says, "As the hands move, the right foot simultaneously steps forward, touching down on the heel. The feet should be spaced a comfortable distance apart. As you move the right foot forward, the body remains upright and stable. Do not move the body or shift the weight as the right leg moves. [This method of stepping (7b-7d) is constant throughout the form. Whether advancing, retreating, or stepping to the side, the foot steps out first, with no movement of the hips or torso, the heel is placed down, and then the body weight is gradually shifted to the stepping leg. One must never "fall" into the foot when stepping out.] The energy of the waist presses downward (7b). Use the intent to pull in the roots of the shoulders and legs. This energy must not be obvious externally. The pressing up of the crown of the head (7b) must not be obvious [i.e., using too much force or tension]. The center of the heart is empty and quiet. Without thought, the body is naturally stable. This is know as the wondrous mystery."
- Sun Lu Tang, A Study of Taijiquan, 1924, p. 85.

8. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Name: Open Hands (开手 : Kai Shou), Opening Hands.

From 8a = 7d, draw the hands in towards the chest and turn the palms to face one another (8b). Move the hands together until they are about 6-8 inches apart, the width of your head, with the fingers facing up (8b). Exhale gently through the nose as you move from 7c - 8b. Inhale gently through the nose as the hands open to about shoulder width (8b-8c). Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium. At position 8c, the waist is facing N12.

A note on the source of these line drawings.

9. Closing Hands (He Shou) 合手

Name: Close Hands (合手 : He Shou), Closing Hands.

From position 9a = 8d, gently exhale as the hands move from about shoulder width (9a) to about 6-8 inches apart (9b), with the fingers facing up and the palms facing each other. The thumbs of both hands point towards each other and are about 2 inches apart. At position 9b, the waist is facing N12. Gaze forwards to N12.

10. Brush Left Knee and Twist Step (Zuo Lou Xi Ao Bu) 左搂膝拗步

Name: Left Brush Knee and Twist Step (左搂膝拗步 : Zou Lou Xi Ao Bu); Twist Step (Ao Bu), Brush Knee (Lou Xi) and Palm Strike; Brush Left Knee and Twist Step.

From position 10a = 9b, draw the right arm in a circle down and up to point to NE 10 as you turn the waist to the left side (10a-10b). The right hand is drawn up to about shoulder height (10b). Look at the right hand (10b). Step out with the left heel in the direction of W9. The left hand first moves so that the left fingers touch the right forearm as it moves towards NE10 (not shown in the illustration); then the left hand moves in a circle down and across the left thigh (10a-10b) - the classic "Brush Knee" movement. Turn the torso to the left as the right hand is draw at shoulder height past the face and in the direction of W9 (10b-10c). Follow step with the right foot by drawing the right toe to a position behind and to the side of the left foot (10c), as the right arm "Pushes" forward (10b-10c). The left hand ends beside the left thigh, palm facing down (10c). At position 10c, the waist is facing W9, and the eyes are looking in the direction of W9 (10c).

Sun Taijiquan 73 Form, Movements 1 - 10

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Section 2, Movements 11 - 20
Sun Style Taijiquan, 73 Movements Standard International Competition Form

List of Movements: 1-38

Section 2, Movements 11 - 20 This chart provides, for each movement, the number of the movement, the name of the movement, the final direction to face for each movement, a very brief description of the movement, and the summary chart (below) for movements 11-21. (PDF, 87 Kb, 2 Pages, 2008)

11. Hand Strums the Lute (Shou Hui Pi Pa) 手挥琵琶

Name: Hand Strums the Lute (手挥琵琶 : Shou Hui Pi Pa), Playing the Pi Pa, Play the Lute, Play the Guitar.

From position 11a = 10c, draw the right foot back towards E3 (11a-11b) and put more weight into the right foot. The left heel lifts so that only the left toe is on the ground (11b). Basically, assume a left empty stance (11b). As the right foot moves backward the left arm extends forward at about chest height with the fingers pointing forward (11b), and, at the same time, the right hand moves back towards the body and ends with the right fingers, pointing forward, near the left upper forearm near the elbow. At position 11b, the waist is facing W9.

12. Advance, Parry, and Punch (Jin Bu Ban Lan Chui) 进步搬拦捶

Name: Advance, Parry and Punch (进步搬拦捶 : Jin Bu Ban Lan Chui); Advance Step, Deflect, Parry and Punch; Deflect, Parry and Punch.

In this movement, we advance forward (12a-12e) towards W9 with four steps. At 12a = 11b, we begin by turning the left palm to face downward, and the right palm to face upward (12a). Step forward with the right foot (12b-12c), and the right hand moves forward and the hand turns over so that the palm faces down, and the left hand draws back into the waist and the left palm faces up. Then, step forward with the left leg (12c-12d), and the left hand moves forward with palm up, and the right hand moves backward towards the waist with the right palm turning down. As the weight settles into the left left, curl the left arm with palm facing inward at about chest height (12d-12e). Finally, punch forward with the right fist, thumb up, with right forearm finally resting on top of the left rounded arm. As the right punch is delivered the right foot follow steps to place the toe behind and at the side of the left heel (12e). At position 12e, the waist is facing W9. In the final stance the body should be upright, head up, knees bent.

Keep in mind we are practicing Huo Bu Sun Taijiquan - The Active Step Sun Taijiquan. This movement (12a-12e) is done rather quickly and smoothly, without any bouncing or jerkiness.

12e

13. Apparent Close Up (Ru Feng Si Bi) 如封似闭

Name: Apparent Close Up (如封似闭 : Ru Feng Si Bi); Appearing to Seal and Close; Withdraw and Seal.

From the Punch position of 13a = 12e, separate both hands, bring hands to about chest height (13b), palms facing forward towards W9. Step back with the right foot and draw the elbows into the body (13b). Finally step back a half step with the left toe. Weight is in the back right leg. At position 13b, the waist is facing W9.

14. Carry Tiger and Push Mountain (Bao Hu Tui Shan) 抱虎归山

Name: Carry Tiger and Push Mountain (抱虎归山 : Bao Hui Tui Shan); Embrace Tiger, Push Mountain; Push (An)

From the left toe stance of postion 14b = 13b, step forward a half step with the left foot (14b-14c). The both arms push forward, at about chest height, palms facing W9, as the back right foot follow steps forward to place the right toe next to the left heel. At position 14c, the waist is facing W9. 14a =12a and 14b = 13b. The body is held upright, head up, looking towards W9.

15. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Name: Open Hands (开手 :Kai Shou), Opening Hands.

From 15a = 14c, turn clockwise to the right, pivoting on the right heel, and moving the left foot to the right (15a-15b). At position 8b, the waist is facing N12. The toes of both feet are on the same line. Exhale gently through the nose as you move from 15a-15b. There should be a comfortable distance between the two feet, but not too wide apart. Move the hands together until they are about 6-8 inches apart, the width of your head, with the fingers facing up (15b), thumbs about two inches apart. Inhale gently through the nose as the hands open to about shoulder width (15b-16c). Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium. At position 15c, the waist is facing N12.

16. Closing Hands (He Shou) 合手

Name: Close Hands (合手 : He Shou), Closing Hands, Withdrawing Hands.

From position 16a = 15c, gently exhale as the hands move from about shoulder width (16a) to about 6-8 inches apart (16b), with the fingers facing up and the palms facing each other. The thumbs of both hands point towards each other and are about 2 inches apart (16b). At position 16b, the waist is facing N12.

Breathe out through the nose when closing hands. Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium.

17. Brush Right Knee and Twist Step (You Lou Xi Ao Bu) 右搂膝拗步

Name: Right Brush Knee and Twist Step (右搂膝拗步 : You Lou Xi Ao Bu); Brush Right Knee and Left Palm Strike; Twist Step, Brush Right Knee, Palm Strike with Left Strike; Brush Knee.

From position 17a = 16b, the hands flow in a downward arc. The left hand the lifts upward to about shoulder height, palm up, with the left fingers pointing towards NE10 (17b). The waist turns clockwise to the right side, and the right foot steps out to the side, with the toes pointing towards E3 (17a-17b). The right hand moves downward to about waist height and crosses over the left leg, with the right palm facing down (17b). The body is now facing E3. Push forward with the left arm, palm facing out, pushing in the direction of E3 (17b-17c). Follow step with the left foot, bringing the left toe to the side of the right heel (17b-17c). Look at the left hand (17b). At position 17c, the waist is facing E3.

18. Lazily Tying Clothes (Lan Zha Yi) 懶扎衣

Name: Tuck in Robes (懶扎衣 : Lan Zha Yi): Leisurely Tying Clothes; Lazily Tying Back the Clothes; Lazily Tying Clothes.

From position 18a=17c, draw the right hand up from the right thigh to about shoulder height, with the right palm facing down (18a-18b). The left hand turns over, palm up, at about chest height (18b). The left leg steps back (18a-18b) as the arms are draw down to about waist level, the left fingers touching the right wrist, and then stepping back with the right foot in a follow step move (18b-18c). Step forward with the right foot (18c-18d), and the hands are moved up and forward, right hand with palms up and left hand touching the right wrist, and then follow stepping with the left leg as the right fingers strike forward (18c-18d). The waist is facing E3 throughout this sequence (18a-18f). Finally, circle the right and left hands in a small clockwise manner back towards the body as the left foot steps back and the right toe lifts (18d-18e). Then push both hands forward, right palm facing E3, left fingers on the right wrist, and follow step with the left leg, bringing the left toe next to the right heel (18e-18f).

Inhale (18a-18b), exhale (18c-18d), inhale (18d-18e), and exhale (18e-18f).

Lazily Tying Clothes reminds me of the most frequently repeated movement in the Yang Style of Taijiquan, that is "Grasping the Sparrow's Tail" sans "Ward Off (Peng)" (18a). 18b-18c corresponds to Roll Back (Lu). 18d is reminiscent of Press (Ji). Finally, 18e-18f reminds me of Push (An). In Yang Style, Grasping the Sparrow's Tail is always followed by Single Whip; while in Sun Style, Single Whip always follows Opening Hands and Closing Hands (i.e., Movements 5, 21, 29, 48,53, and 65). Grasping the Sparrow's Tail is repeated 9 times in the Yang 108 Form and 2 times in the Standard Yang 24 Form; while Lazily Tying the Clothes is repeated 6 times in the Sun Taijiquan 73 Form.

"Another characteristic of the Sun Style is the stepping method: advancing or retreating steps are usually followed by a half step forwards or backwards. This is different from other styles of Taijiquan, such as Yang Style where bow stance is widely employed for postures. When you practice Sun Style movements, you will find the body weight is constantly shifted between the two legs. Sun Style Taijiquan emphasizes the good control of balance between the transference of body weight so that all movements can be performed smoothly without a jerk, pause or sudden increase in speed. This is why Sun Style Taijiquan is also referred to as "open and close" Taiji, or "nimble step" Taiji. It is important to understand that only when the mind, body and qi are in accord can you gain the power to generate and enhance the true qi and to heal."
- Fay Yip (Li), The Development and Practice of Sun Style

19. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Name: Open Hands (开手 : Kai Shou), Opening Hands.

From 19a = 19a, turn counter-clockwise to the left, pivoting on the left heel, and moving the right foot to the left (19a-19b). At position 19b, the waist is facing N12. The toes of both feet are on the same line. Exhale gently through the nose as you move from 19a-19b. There should be a comfortable distance between the two feet, but not too wide apart (19b). Move the hands together until they are about 6-8 inches apart, the width of your head, with the fingers facing up (19b), thumbs about two inches apart. Inhale gently through the nose as the hands open to about shoulder width (19b-19c). Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium. At position 19c, the waist is facing N12.

20. Closing Hands (He Shou) 合手

Name: Close Hands (合手 : He Shou), Closing Hands.

Beginning from the open hands position (20a = 19c), breathe out gently through the nose while you are closing your hands (20a-20b). The fingers are pointed upwards and separated, and thumbs are open. Bring the thumbs together until they are about two inches apart (20b). The fingers are about 6-8 inches apart. The feet are close together. Both hands are comfortably close to the body (20b). Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium. At position 20b, the waist is facing N12.

Sun Taijiquan 73 Form, Movements 11 - 20

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Section 3, Movements 21 - 30
Sun Style Taijiquan, 73 Movements Standard International Competition Form

List of Movements: 1-38

Section 3, Movements 21 - 30 This chart provides, for each movement, the number of the movement, the name of the movement, the final direction to face for each movement, a very brief description of the movement, and the summary chart (below) for movements 21-30. (PDF, 91 Kb, 2 Pages, 2008)

21. Single Whip Left (Dan Bian Zou) 单鞭左

Name: Single Whip Left (单鞭左 : Dan Bian Zou); Single Whip; Left Single Whip.

21a = 20b. At position 21b, the waist is facing N12.

"Single Whip" (21b) always follows a sequence of two movements (19c, 20b) called "Opening Hands" and "Closing Hands." In this position, the body is posed similar to wu ji (empty stance) - a basic posture in xingyi. The palms face each other, as they open and then close. These movements are used to cultivate the qi, center the practitioner and harmonize the movements with the breathing. This movement is a variation on taiji practices that visualize the "energy ball," the sensation of qi in the hands. During "Opening Hands" (19a) the energy ball is expanded with an inhalation; during "Closing Hands (20b)," the energy ball is compressed and made denser, like a collapsing star. "Single Whip" (21b) expands the energy ball once more, so that it engulfs the entire body."
- Gene Ching, Radical Taiji: The Rising Sun of Taiji

In the Sun Taijiquan Style, Single Whip always follows Opening Hands and Closing Hands (i.e., Movements 5, 21, 29, 48,53, and 65); while in the Yang Taijiquan Style, the Single Whip always follows the Grasping the Sparrow's Tail movement sequence.

22. Fist Under Elbow (Zhou Di Kan Chui) 肘底捶

Name: Fist Under Elbow (肘底捶 : Zhou Di Kan Chui).

22a = 21b. At position 22b, the waist is facing W9.

23. Repulse Monkey Left (Dao Nian Hou Zou) 倒撵猴左

Name: Left Step Back and Whirl Arms (Dao Juan Gong Zou); Repulse Monkey Left Side (倒撵猴左 : Dao Nian Hou Zou).

23a = 22b. At position 23c, the waist is facing SE5.

The Sun Taijiquan Competition 73 Form follows the Classic Sun Taijiquan 98 Form fairly closely from movement 1 until movement 23 of the 73 Form. The classic 98 form adds more postures to Step Back and Whirl Arms/Repulse Monkey (movements 23 and 24).

24. Repulse Monkey Right (Dao Nian Hou You) 倒撵猴右

Name: Right Step Back and Whirl Arms (You Dao Juan Gong); Repulse Monkey Right Side (倒撵猴右 : Dao Nian Hou You).

24a = 23c. At position 24c, the waist is facing NE1.

25. Brush Left Knee (Zuo Lou Xi Ao Bu) 左搂膝拗步

Name: Twist Step, Brush Left Knee, Right Palm Strike; Left Brush Knee and Twist Step (左搂膝拗步 : Zou Lou Xi Ao Bu); Brush Knee; Brush Knee and Push; Brush Left Knee and Right Palm Strike.

25a = 24c. At position 25c, the waist is facing W9.

26. Lazily Tying Clothes Left (Lan Zha Yi Zou) 懶扎衣左

Name: Tuck in Robes (Lan Zha Yi), Leisurely Tying Clothes (懶扎衣左 : Lan Zha Yi Zou); Lazily Tying Back the Clothes, Lazily Tying Clothes.

At position 26f, the waist is facing W9.

"The main technical characteristics of the competition routine of Sun style Tai Ji Quan are as follows: The postures are high and the footwork is agile; the body is centered and upright; the rhythm is natural and lively, agile and light; the movements are filled with the internal strength with the hardness embedded in softness; the speed is smooth and tender, like the floating clouds and the flowing water. When practicing, pay attention to the coordination of the advancing and retreating of the footwork and the use of the movement of opening and closing the hands to connect each turning."
- The Competition Routine of Sun Style Taijiquan, 2003, p. 4.

27. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Name: Open Hands (开手 : Kai Shou), Opening Hands.

27a = 26f. At position 27c, the waist is facing N12.
Breathe in through the nose when opening hands. Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium.

28. Closing Hands (He Shou) 合手

Name: Close Hands (合手 : He Shou); Closing Hands.

28a = 27c. At position 28b, the waist is facing N12. Breathe out through the nose when closing hands. Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium. In position 28b, the waist is facing N12.

29. Single Whip Right (Dan Bian You) 单鞭右

Name: Right Single Whip (You Dan Bian Shou): Single Whip Right Side (单鞭右 : Dan Bian You).

28b = 29a. At position 29b, the waist is facing N12.

30. Cloud Hands Right (Yun Shou You) 云手右

Name: Right Wave Hands Like Clouds (You Yun Shou); Cloud Hands Right (云手右 : Yun Shou You); Waving Hands Like Clouds to the Right.

30a = 29b. At position 30f, the waist is facing N12.

Sun Taijiquan 73 Form, Movements 21 - 30

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Section 4, Movements 31 - 40
Sun Style Taijiquan, 73 Movements Standard International Competition Form

List of Movements: 1-38 List of Movements: 39-73 List of Movements: 1-73

Section 4, Movements 31 - 40 This chart provides, for each movement, the number of the movement, the name of the movement, the final direction to face for each movement, a very brief description of the movement, and the summary chart (below) for movements 21-30. (PDF, 91 Kb, 2 Pages, 2008)

Slide Show of Sun Lu Tang Performing the Sun 97 Taijiquan Form.

31. High Pat on Horse (Gao Tan Ma) 高探马

Name: Search High on the Horse (Gao Tan Ma); High Pat on the Horse; Pat the Big Horse on the Back; Pat the High Horse.

Position 31a = 30f, and position 31b = 30g. At position 31d, the waist is facing NE2.

32. Kick Left Foot (Zuo Fen Jiao) 左分脚

Name: Left Toes Kick (Zuo Fen Jiao); Kick Left Foot; Left Separation Kick.

Position 32a = 31d. At position 32d, the waist is facing E4. The left foot kicks in the direction of NE2. This is a left toe tick.

33. Kick Right Foot (You Fen Jiao) 右分脚

Name: Right Toes Kick (You Fen Jiao); Kick Right Foot; Right Separation Kick.

Postion 33a = 32d. At position 33d, the waist is facing E3. The right foot kicks more in the direction of SE5.

34. Step Forward and Punch Down (Jian Bu Da Chui) 进步栽锤

Name: Jump Step and Punch Down (Jian Bu Da Chui); Step, Punch Low; Step Forward and Punch Down.

Position 34a = 33d. At position 34e, the waist is facing the earth, and the head is pointing to E3.

35. Turn Over Body and Double Jump Kick (Fan Shen Qi Er Jiao) 翻身其二脚

Name: Turn Over Body and Double Jump Kick (Fan Shen Er Qi Jiao); Turn, Strike, Hop, Double Jump Kick; Turn, Hop, Jump Kick.

Position 35a = 34e. At position 35e, the waist is facing in the direction of W9. High kick with right foot in the direction of W9.

There are many days that my body, at age 62, is not as agile and strong as on other days. Since the double kick is the most challenging combination kick in the 73 Form routine, I make an adaptation. What I do is step forward with the left leg from 35d-35e, and bring my left knee up for a high knee strike while keeping the right hand at the waist. I then place my left foot on the ground in a stable and secure position, capable of holding the entire weight of my body (275 lbs). I then kick as high as I can with the right foot and slap the right shin with my right hand.

36. Diagonal Subdue Tiger (Xie Fei Ke Hu) 斜飞克虎

Name: Hand Defense and Tame the Tiger (Pi Shen Fu Hu); Diagonal Subdue Tiger; Turn Body and Straddle the Tiger.

Position 36a = 35e. At position 36d, the waist is facing W9.

37. Toe Kick Left - (Zuo Fen Jiao) 右分脚

Name: Toe Kick Left (Zuo Fen Jiao); Kick with Left Foot; Separation Kick to the Left; Left Heel Kick .

Position 7a = 36d. Heel kick with left foot, a high fast kick, in the direction of W9.
At position 37c, the waist is facing N12.

38. Spin, Right Heel Kick (Zhuan Shen You Deng Jiao) 转身右蹬脚

Name: Turn Body and Heel Kick (Zhuan Shen You Deng Jiao); Spin, Right Heel Kick.

Position 38a = 37c. Turn clockwise 180 degrees. Kick with right heel in the direction of W9. At position 38d, the waist is facing SW7.

39. Advance, Parry and Punch (Jin Bu Ban Lan Chui) 进步搬拦捶

Name: Advance, Parry and Punch (Jin Bu Ban Lan Chui); Step Forward to Deflect Downwards, Parry and Punch; Advance Step, Deflect, Parry and Punch.

Step right foot forward, left hand forward palm up, and the right hand with palm down at the height of the left elbow. Step forward with the left foot in W9 direction, move right hand forward with palm up, move left hand with palm down to height of right elbow. Step forward with the right foot in W9 direction, follow step with the left foot. As the right foot steps forward the right hand is drawn into a ward off position about chest height, and the left hand makes a fist and punches forward above left forearm. Both hands make a fist. When stepping move forward in the W9 direction.

At position 39d, the waist is facing W9.

"The principles of posture and body alignment for Taiji form practice are fundamentally the same as for all qigong exercises. Thus the principles of posture for standing meditation [#1] apply to form movement as well. The following principles are additional considerations in practicing Taiji form movement: 1) Keep a relaxed, natural posture. 2) Keep the "five bows." 3) Keep central equilibrium, and straight and centered. 4) Avoid an excessively low stance. 5) Understand the importance and function of turning the waist."
- Yang Yang, Taijiquan, 2005, p. 82.

40. Apparent Close Up (Ru Feng Si Bi) 如封似闭

Name: Apparent Close Up (Ru Feng Si Bi); Appearing to Seal and Close; Apparent Closing Up.

At position 40c, the waist is facing W9.

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Section 5, Movements 41 - 50
Sun Style Taijiquan, 73 Movements Standard International Competition Form

List of Movements: 39-73 (PDF, 15 Kb) Number and name of movement

41. Carry Tiger and Push Mountain (Bao Hu Gui Shan) 抱虎归山

Name: Carry Tiger and Push Mountain (Bao Hu Tui Shan); Carring the Tiger and Pushing the Mountain; Hold the Tiger, Push the Mountain, Embrace the Tiger and Push the Mountain.

At position #41 ... the waist is facing W9.

42. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Name: Open Hands (Kai Shou), Opening Hands.

Turn the body counterclockwise to the right 90 degrees.
Breathe in through the nose when opening hands. Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium.
At position #42 ... the waist is facing S6.

43. Closing Hands (He Shou) 合手

Name: Close Hands (He Shou); Closing Hands.

Breathe out through the nose when closing hands. Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find central equilibrium.
At position #43 ... the waist is facing S6.

44. Brush Left Knee and Twist Step (Zuo Lou Xi Ao Bu) 左搂膝拗步

Name: Left Brush Knee and Twist Step (Zuo Lou Xi Ao Bu); Brush Knee and Twist Step Left; Brush Knee and Push.

Turn the body counterclockwise and step with left foot to NE2.
At position #44 ... the waist is facing NE2.

45. Lazily Tying Clothes (Lan Zha Yi) 懶扎衣

Name: Tuck in Robes (Lan Zha Yi), Leisurely Tying Clothes, Lazily Tying Back the Clothes, Lazily Tying Clothes.

Step back with right foot, follow step with left foot, drawing left hand down with palm down and right hand touches left hand. Step forward with left foot, follow step with right foot, attack jab with fingers of left hand with palm up, right hand on left wrist. Step back with right foot, draw left hand with palm up in a counterclockwise arc at shoulder height, push left hand forward and settle wrist for left hand palm strike, follow step forward with right foot, and right hand on left wrist.
At position #45e ... the waist is facing NE2.

At position #45e ... the waist is facing NE2.

46. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Name: Open Hands (Kai Shou), Opening Hands.

Turn slightly clockwise to face E.
Breathe in through the nose when opening hands. Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium.
At position #46 ... the waist is facing E3.

47. Closing Hands (He Shou) 合手

Name: Close Hands (He Shou), Closing Hands.

48. Diagonal Single Whip (Xie Dan Bian) 斜单鞭

Name: Oblique Single Whip (Xie Dan Bian); Diaongal Single Whip (Dan Bian); Slant Single Whip; Single Whip.

Step with right foot to E4. Both arms open gracefully into single whip position. Palms facing out and fingers held upward. End by looking at left hand.
At position #48b ... the waist is facing NE2.

49. Parting the Wild Horse's Mane (Ye Ma Fen Zong) 野马分鬃

Name: Parting the Wild Horse's Mane (Ye Ma Fen Zong); Part Wild Horse's Mane.

At position #49d ... the waist is facing E3.

50. Lazily Tying Clothes (Lan Zha Yi) 懶扎衣

Name: Tuck in Robes (Lan Zha Yi), Leisurely Tying Clothes, Lazily Tying Back the Clothes, Lazily Tying Clothes.

At position #50f ... the waist is facing E3.

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Return to the Sectional Index for the 73 Form

Section 6, Movements 51 - 60
Sun Style Taijiquan, 73 Movements Standard International Competition Form

List of Movements: 39-73 (PDF, 15 Kb) Number and name of movement

51. Opening Hands (Kai Shou) 开手

Name: Open Hands (Kai Shou), Opening Hands.

Breathe in through the nose when opening hands. Stand up straight. Hold the head erect. Shoulders are slightly rounded inward. Knees are slightly bent. Relax and settle; find the central equilibrium.
At position #51 ... the waist is facing N12.

52. Closing Hands (He Shou) 合手

Name: Close Hands (He Shou), Closing Hands.

53. Single Whip Left (Dan Bian Zou) 单鞭左

Name: Left Single Whip (Zuo Dan Bian); Single Whip to Left Side

At position #53 ... the waist is facing N12.

54. Cloud Hands Left (Yun Shou Zou) 云手左

Name: Left Wave Hands Like Clouds (Zuo Yun Shou); Cloud Hands Left; Waving Hands Like Clouds Left.

Step with right foot to the right side. Bring left foot closer to right foot.
Move to the left towards W9.
At position #54f ... the waist is facing N12.

55. Cloud Hands, Lowering (Yun Shou Xia Shi) 云手下势

Name: Wave Hands Like Clouds and Push Down (Yun Shou Xia Shi); Waving Hands Like Clouds and Lowering Hands;
Cloud Hands, Lowering.
Basically a Brush Left KneeAt position #55c ... the waist is facing W9.

56. Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg (Jin Ji Du Li) 金鸡独立

Name: Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg (Jin Ji Du Li); Rooster Stands on One Leg.

Golden Rooster Stands on Left Leg at position 56b.
At position #56b ... the waist is facing W9.
Golden Rooster Stands on Right Leg at position 56d.
At position #56d ... the waist is facing W9.

57. Fan Through the Back (Shan Tong Bei) 扇通背

Name:

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