Tai Chi Sword
Taijiquan Jian


Sun Style
      Yang Style     Chen Style      Bibliography      Links     Resources
    
13 Sword Techniques     Quotations     Videos Online     Manufacturers/Distributors

     32 Sword Standard Form     
Wudang Sword Forms     Broadsword (Dao) Saber

Taijiquan Jian or T'ai Chi Ch'uan Chien (Gim) : The Double-Edged Straight Chinese Sword

 


Jian - Sword

 

Research by
Michael P. Garofalo

 

September 8, 2008

 

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Disclaimer

Warning:  Practicing with Sword Weapons Can Be a Dangerous Activity for Adults.  Please Use Caution!

 

 

 

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Cloud Hands Homepage

 

 

 

 

 

Bibliography, Links, Resources
T'ai Chi Ch'uan Sword (Jian, Gim, Chien)

 

Academy of European Swordsmansip


Antique Arms and Armour
.   Seven Stars Trading Company.  Scott Rodell.  Articles, information, resources.  


The Art of the Chinese Sword
.   By Philip Tom.   34Kb.  Mirror


The Art of Chinese Swordmanship: The Manual of Taiji Jian.  By Yun Zhang.  New York, Weatherhill, 1998.  287 pages.  ISBN:
0834804123.  Sifu Yun Xhang was a student of Grandmaster Wang Peisheng (Ying Cheng).  A 32 movement Wu short Jian form, by Wang Peisheng is taught.  VSCL.   


The Art of Japanese Swordsmanship.  By Nicklaus Suino.  Weatherhill, 1994.  264 pages.  ISBN:0834803003.   


The Art of War.  By Sun Tzu.  Translated by Thomas Cleary.  Illustrated edition.  Shambhala, 2004.  224 pages.  ISBN: 1590301854.

 

Pass your actualtests 70-646 and certkiller 000-669 exams in first try by using our guaranteed testking 642-832
and testking 70-662 and best quality testking.

 

Association for Renaissance Martial Arts (ARMA)   Essays on Swords and Swordsmanship


Autumn Lightning: The Education of an American Samurai.  By Dave Lowry.  Edited by Ron Suresha.   Shambhala, 2001.  192 pages.  ISBN: 1570621152.


Ba Gua Sword - Traditional.   Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape, 121 minutes.  Step by step instructions, multiple views,
demonstrations.  A 37 posture form developed by Liu Jingru, officer of the Beijing Ba Gua Zhang Research Association.  Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.    


Ba Gua Zhang (Pa Kua Chang): Bibliography, Links, Resources, Quotes


Bichunmoo (Dance With Sword).   Directed by Young-jun Kim.  2000.  ASIN: B00005MEVV.   


Bokken: Art of the Japanese Sword.   By Dave Lowry.  Black Belt Communications, Inc., 1985.  192 pages.  ISBN: 0897501047.


Book of Five Rings.  By Miyamoto Musashi.  Translated by Thomas Cleary.  Boston, MA, Shambhala, 2000.  Notes, bibliography, 114 pages.
ISBN: 1570627487.  VSCL.    


A Brief Introduction to Practicing Taiji Sword.  By Li Tianji. 


Broadsword (Dao, Saber, Ox Tail Broadsword) and Taijiquan   Bibliography, links, resources, techniques, styles, quotes, notes.


Broadsword (Dao, Saber): Chen Taijiquan Style.  Bibliography, Links, Lists, Instructions, Resources, Quotations, Online Videos


Broadsword (Saber, Dao, Ox Tail Broadsword):  Sword Techniques


Broadsword (Dao, Saber): Yang Taijiquan Style.  Bibliography, Links, Lists, Instructions, Resources, Quotations, Online Videos


Buddhism: Taijiquan and Martial Arts


Budo Secrets: Teachings of the Martial Arts Masters.  By John Stevens.  Boston, Shambhala, 2001.  115 pages.  ISBN: 1570629153.   


Butterfly and the Sword.   Directed by Chi Li Tang and Michael Mak.  86 minutes, 1993.  ASIN: B0000507OK.   


CAS Iberia: Swords, Knives and Weapons   


Chen Single and Double Broadsword.  By Chen Zhenglei.  DVD 90 minutes.  The single form has 13 movements and the Double form has 35 movements.  


Chen Style T'ai Chi Ch'uan   Hand Forms, Sword (Jian), Broadsword (Dan Dao), Spear, Silk Reeling.


Chen Style Tai Chi Double Sword.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes.  39 movement set created by Chen Zhaopei.  Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations.  Website: Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  


Chen Style Tai Chi Sword - Traditional.   Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape.  49 Movements.  Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations.  120 minutes.  Website: Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  


Chen Style Tai Chi Sword.  Presented by Ren Guang Yi.  Instructional VHS videotape, 60 minutes.  49 posture traditional Chen form.  


Chen Style Tai Chi Weapons Forms.   Demonstrations by Master Chen Quanzhong.


Chen Style Taijiquan:  Bibliography, Links, Quotes, Notes 


Chen Style Taijiquan Broadsword (Dao, Saber): Bibliography, Links, Lists, Instructions, Resources, Quotations, Online Videos


Chen Style Taijiquan Sword Form.  Research by Mike Garofalo.   Bibliography, links, list of movements, quotes, notes, resources.  Analysis of the the 49 movement Chen Tai Chi sword form.  


Chen Style Taijiquan Double Straight Sword.   DVD.  

 


Chen Style Taijiquan: Sword and Broadsword.   Translated by Chen Bin.  Tai Chi Centre, 2003.  368 pages.  ISBN: 7534823218.


Chen Style Taiji Sword Form.   List of 49 movements.  


Chen Style Taiji Sword Form.   Presented by Yue, Li-ming.  Instructional VHS videotape.  2001.  ASIN: B00005K20Y


Chen Tai Chi Chuan Sword Form.  Presented by George Xu.  Part 7 of the Chen Tai Chi Chuan Series.  Volume 25 of China's Living Treasures Series.  Step by step teaching, multiple views, repetitions, and demonstration.  Instructional VHS videotape, 56 minutes.  


Cheng Man-Ch'ing (1901-1975)  


Chinese Swords.   By Thomas Chen.   History, sword making, types, links, information.


Chinese Swords and Swordsmanship Forum.   Sword Forum Internatinal.  Moderated by Philip Tom, Scott Rodell.  


Chinese Swordsmanship
: The Yang Family Taiji Jian Traditions.  By Scott M. Rodell.  Annandale, Virginia, Seven Stars Books and Video, 2003.  304 pages.   Introduction, sword traditions,  history, safety, Yang classical form and Michuan Taiji fighting system.   Review   ISBN: 0974399906.   VSCL.  The Michuan Jian form is meticulously described and photographed and applications shown on pages 73-184, and the Public Yang Jian is likewise described on pages 185-257.  Applications and swordplay with partners are covered.  The basic Jian cuts are explained on pages 41-64.  

 

Scott M. Rodell

 

 

 

              

 

Chinese 2 Handed Swordsmanhip Schools/Styles


Classical Fencing


Classical Fencing and Historical Swordsmanhip Resources 


Classical Tai Chi Sword: Bibliography, Links, Resources, Quotes, Lists, Instructions


Classical Tai Chi Sword.  By Petra Kobayashi, Toyo Kobayashi, and Chiang Tao Chi.  Charles E. Tuttle, 2003.   176 pages.  ISBN: 0804834482.


Classical Tai Chi Sword, List of Movements, Yang Style, 55 Movements, Valley Spirit Taijiquan List,.Detailed, 34 pages  


Classical Tai Chi Sword, List of Movements, Yang Style, 55 Movements, Valley Spirit Taijiquan List, Simple List, 2 pages  


Classical Tai Chi Chuan Sword, Taijiquan Jian 55 in the Yang Style: Comparison of Names or Descriptions for the 55 Movements.”  Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California, January 2008.  By Michael P. Garofalo.  This document includes a detailed listing of the names or brief descriptions of the 55 movements of the Classical Taijiquan Straight Sword Form in the Yang Style of Taijiquan.  This document includes names or brief descriptions for each movement in English, Romanized Chinese (Pinyin and/or Wade Giles), Chinese characters, Spanish, French, German, and Japanese.  The document includes source citations and a bibliography.  In PDF format, print only, 262Kb, 34 pages:
Webpage: http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/Classical Taijiquan Yang Sword Form 55 List Detailed.pdf 


Cloud Hands Blog: Taijiquan, Qigong and Yoga   


Cloud Hands Website

 


Concepts, Search Terms, Terminology, Vocabulary:  

Boken (Japanese wooden sword), Budo (Way of Warrior., Martial Arts - Japanese), 
Chinese SwordsChinese Swordsmanship,  Dagger,  Dai Dao - Chinese Hand Broadsword 
Dao
(Chinese Broadsword),  Falchion,  FencingJian (Chinese Sword)
Iaido (Japanese art of drawing and striking with sword), 
Kendo (Japanese art of fighting with bamboo swords), 
Knife,  Saber,  SmallswordSwordSamurai (Japanese Swordsmen)
Swords
Sun Style Tai Chi SwordsmanshipSwords - LegendsSwordsmanshipRapier,
Tai Chi SwordsmanshipYang Style Tai Chi Swordsmanship

 


Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.  Directed by Ang Lee.  Columbia Tri Star, 2000.  ASIN: B00003CXR4.  Starring Yun-Fat Chow and Michaelle Yeoh.  


Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon - Wikipedia 

"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (Traditional Chinese: 臥虎藏龍; Simplified Chinese: 卧虎藏龙; pinyin: Wò Hǔ Cáng Lóng)
is a Chinese-language wuxia (chivalric martial arts) film released in 2000. A China-Hong Kong-Taiwan-United States
co-production, it was directed by Ang Lee and features an international cast of ethnically Chinese actors including
Chow Yun-Fat, Michelle Yeoh, Zhang Ziyi and Chang Chen. It was choreographed by Yuen Wo Ping and is based on
the fourth novel in a pentalogy, known in China as the Crane-Iron Pentalogy, by Wang Dulu

Made on a mere US$15 million budget, with dialogue in Mandarin, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon became a surprise
international success, grossing US$128 million in the United States alone, where foreign-language films are very rarely
embraced by the public. It also won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and was nominated for
Best Picture, as well as winning four other Academy Awards."

"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" from Perspective of Chi, Tao, Chan &  Compassion by Michael Chung

 


Dao (Saber, Broadsword) and Taijiquan   Bibliography, links, resources, quotes, notes.


Designs, Retail Sales and Manufacturing - Tai Chi Swords   


Double Dragon Sword Form.   Presented by Jiang, Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape, 54 minutes.   Website: Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  Demonstrations from various angles.  A 23 movement form blending various T'ai Chi styles.  


Dragon Inn.   Directed by Daniel Lee.   Hong Kong, Tai Seng1992.  "A fantastic remake of King Hu's epic swordplay drama "Dragon Gate Inn" (1966)." ASIN: B000059HA4.  


East Asian Arms and Armour   Virtual exhibit.  


Eight Section Brocade Qigong   


Elementary Swordplay and Broadsword Play.  By Victor Wu.  Part of the Chinese Kung Fu Series.  Hai Feng Pub. Co., 1984.  135 pages.
ISBN: 9622380263.


11 Sword Forms Demonstration and Workshop.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes.  Tai Chi, bagua, and xingyi sword forms.  Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  


"The Essence of True Wudang Sword."  By Qian Timing.  Translated by Dr. Mei-hui Lu.  T'ai Chi: The International Magazine of T'ai Chi Ch'uan
Vol. 29, No. 1, February 2005, pp. 14-24.  


Extreme Directions: The 54 Moves of Tai Chi Sword.  By Alice Jones.  Omnidawn Publications, 2002.  64 pages.  ISBN: 1890650110.


Falchion (Dao, Saber) and Taijiquan   Bibliography, links, resources, quotes, notes.


Fighting with the German Longsword.  Christian Henry Tobler.  Chivalry Bookshelf, 2004.  248 pages.  ISBN: 1891448242.


Five Animal Frolics Qigong   


Five Families Tai Chi Sword Demonstration and Workshop.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes.  Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  


42 Tai Chi Sword.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape.  117 minutes.  The standard 42 forms competition form.  Step by step instructions, multiple views, and demonstrations.  Website: Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.   


Gateway to the Miraculous: Further Explorations in the Tao of Cheng Man-ch'ing.  By Wolfe Lowenthal.  Berkeley, California, Frog Ltd., 1994.   124 pages.  ISBN: 1883319137.  Swordwork: pp. 22-33.  Cheng Man-ch'ing (1901 - 1975) was a Taijiquan master, medical doctor (TCM), poet, calligrapher, artist, teacher, and author.  The photo below was taken in New York in the early 1970's.  


Glossary of Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan)   In English and Chinese.  By Mike Garofalo 


Green Destiny Sword from "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon."  Replica 1, Replica 2, Replica 3, Replica 4, Replica 5


Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai.  By Yamamoto Tsunetomo and William Scott Wilson.  Kodansha International, Reissue Edition 1992.  180 pages.  ISBN: 4770011067.


The Heart of Kendo.   By Carrell Max Craig.   Shambhala Publications, 2000.


Xing Yi Straightsword

 

 

Cheng Man-ch'ing  (1901 - 1975)
Gateway to the Miraculous:

 

 

 

Historical Illustrations of Two Handed Chinese Swords.   Scott Rodell.  


"How to Hold the T'ai Chi Sword."    By Paul Lam and Kam Lau Fung.  T'ai Chi, Vol 23, No. 3, June 1999, pp. 38-41.


Illustrations (black and white line art) - Denotations and Illustrations - Index - 32 Sword


Iaido: The History, Teachings and Practice of Japanese Swordmanship.  By William De Lang and Akita Moriji Sensei.  Weatherhill, 2002.  158 pages.
ISBN: 0834805006.


Internet Sword Colllectors Association   


International Center for the Healing Arts.  Port Townsend, WA.  Michael Gilman Yang style Taijiquan hand and weapons forms.   Instructional videotapes and DVDs, books, and numerous excellent on-line classes are offered.  


In the Shadow of Leaves - Japanese Swordsmanship   Extensive website.  


"An Introduction to Antique Chinese Swords."  By David Dolbear.  T'ai Chi International Magazine of T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Vol. 23, No. 6, pp. 42-48.  


The Japanese Sword: A Comprehensive Guide.  By Kanzan Sato.  Translated by Joe Earle.  Kodansha America, 1983.  210 pages.  ISBN: 0870115626.


Japanese Swordsmanship School  Australia   Battodo


Japanese Swordsmanship - Dragon Associates


Japanese Swordsmanship Links  


Japanese Swordsmanship Society  Kobudo, Iaido


Japanese Swords   


Jian, Jen, Chien, Taiji Sword, Chinese Swordplay: Links, Bibliography, Resources


Jian: Straight Sword.  Instructional VHS videotape.  


Jiang, Jian-ye, Sifu - Tai Chi Videos.  He has prepared numerous useful  instructional videotapes.  These videotapes provide step by step instructions, multiple views, repetitions, summaries, and complete demonstrations. 


Jin Yong and Chinese Martial Arts Novels   


Kendo: The Definitive Guide.  By Hiroshi Ozawa and Tamilo Yamaguchi.  Kodansha International, 1997.   173 pages.  ISBN: 4770021194.


Kill Bill I.  Directed by Quentin Tarantino.  Starring Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, and David Carridine.  2003.  DVD, 111 minutes.  ASIN: B00005JMEW.  


Korean Swordsmanship   26Kb.  


Kun Wu Jian and its Applications.  Northern Shaolin Sword.  By Yang, Jwing-Ming and his senior students.  Instructional VHS videotape.  48 minutes.  ISBN: 188696906X.  YMAA Publications.   


The Last Samurai.   Starring Ken Watanabe and Tom Cruise.  Directed by Edward Zwick.  2003.  155 minutes.  ASIN: B0001JXOVC.  


Legacies of the Sword.   By Karl F. Friday and Seki Humitake.  Honolulu, University of Hawaii Press, 1997.  


Li Deyin 32 Taiji Jian.   2 DVDs.  "Taiji Sword is one of short weaponry routines of tai chi boxing integrated with tai chi boxing and swordplay techniques. 32-form taiji sword was adapted from Yang-Style Tai Chi Sword by Chinese martial arts master Li Tianji. The set of routines is dissected in 2 sections, 2 returns and 32 movements. The 32-form taiji sword was supported by the National Physical Education Committee."  


Lion Books - Tai Chi Sword


List of Movements - Yang Style Taijiquan Sword Form   


Lives of Master Swordsmen.   By Sugawara, Makoto.  Afterword by John Stevens.  Tokyo, East Publications, 1999.  


The Martial Arts Guide to Ancient Chinese Weapons: An Easy Reference Guide.  By Yang, Jwing-Ming.  Edited by James C. O'Leary.  YMAA Publication Center, 1999.  160 pages.  ISBN: 1886969671.     


Martial Arts Weaponry Links   


Maio Dao, Form One, Created by Monk Cheng Zongyou.  Interpreted by Guo Ruixiang.  Two handed sword form. 


Ms. May Tan Mui Buay.   International Wushu Tai Chi Sword Champion.   


Mugai Ryu: The Classical Samurai Art of Drawing the Sword.  By Darrell Max Craig.  YMAA Publications, 2002.  260 pages.  ISBN: 1886969183.


Mu Lan Single Sword.  Presented by Lu Yuzhi.  A 31 movement form.  Review of postures and demonstration.  Instructional VHS videotape, 95 minutes.  


Musashi.  Biographical novel about Miyamoto Musashi.  By Eiji Yoshikawa.  Translated by Charles S. Terry.  Kodansha International, Reprint Edition, 1995.  984 pages.  ISBN: 4770019572.


Northern Shaolin Sword.   By Yang, Jwing-Ming, Jeffery Bolt, and Sam Masich.  YMAA Publications, 2000.   Second Edition.  320 pages.  ISBN: 188696985X.


Northern Shaolin Sword.  San Ci Jian and its Applications.  By Yang, Jwing-Ming and his senior students.  Instructional VHS videotape.  48 minutes.  ISBN: 1886969051.  YMAA Publications.  


100 Days of Swordsmanship Blog   From Charlie in Boston. 


Online Videos of Tai Chi Sword Forms


Orthodox Taiji Sword.  Instructional VHS videotape.  Presented by Madam Wang Ji Yung.  108 minutes.  Step by step teaching of the 32 Form sword set.  Produced by Vecom Development Co..  Includes a 26 page instructional booklet.  Versions in Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese and English.  Madame Wang is the Vice Chairman of the the Chinese Wushu Association, and Professor at the Shanghai Wushu Investigation Laboratory.   Distributed by Wayfarer.  


Pa Kua Chang (Baguazhang): Bibliography, Links, Resources, Quotes   


"Practical Tai Chi Sword."  By J. Justin Meehan.  T'ai Chi: The International Magazine of Tai Chi Chuan: Vol. 30, No. 6, December, 2006, pp. 24-29.


Practice Drills for Japanese Swordsmanship.   By Nicklaus Suino.  Weatherhill, 1995.  112 pages.  ISBN: 0834803399.


Rodell, Scott   Antique sword expert and author.  


Saber (Broadsword, Dao) and Taijiquan   Bibliography, links, resources, quotes, notes.


The Samurai Sword: A Handbook.   By J. M. Yumoto.  Tuttle, 1958. ISBN: 0804805091.


School of European Swordsmanship in Helsinki


Seven Samurai.  Directed by Akira Kurosawa.   Starring Toshiro Mifune.  1956.  ASIN: 6302969352.  


Shambhala Warriorship


Shaolin Dragon Movement Straight Sword.   Instructional VHS videotape.  1994.  IBSN: 1586570137.    


Shaolin Sword.   Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape, 80 minutes.  Step by step instructions, multiple views, demonstrations.  
Jiang's Tai Chi Videos
.    


Staff Weapons: Jo, Bo, Cane
.   Links, bibliography, quotes, notes.  


Standard 32 Sword Form:  Bibliography, Links, Quotes, Notes


Subject Index to the Cloud Hands Website.

 

 

Return to the Main Index on this Webpage

 

 

Disclaimer

Warning:  Practicing with Sword Weapons Can Be a Dangerous Activity for Adults.  Please Use Caution!

 

 

 


Sun
Lu Tang's Style of Swordsmanship


Sun Style Taijiquan Sword (Jian, Gim), 50 Movements Form

 

 

 

Swashbuckling: A Step by Step Buide to the Art of Stage Combat and Theatrical Swordplay.  By Richard Lane.  Revised and updated edition.   Applause Books, 2001.  192 pages.  ISBN: 1557834598.


Symbolism and Lore about the Taijiquan Sword Postures
     Great Star of the Literary God, Chief Star, Big Dipper


Sword and Brush: The Spirit of the Martial Arts.   By Dave Lowry.  Boston, MA, Shambhala, 1995.  ISBN: 1570621128.   


The Sword and the Mind.   By Munenori, Yagyu.  Translated by Hiroaki Sato.  Woodstock, New York, Overlook Press, Reprint 1988.  144 pages.  
ISBN:
0879512563.  17th century Japanese sword master.  


Sword Fighting: A Manual for Actors and Directors.  By Keith Ducklin and John Waller. Applause Books, 2001.  192 pages.  ISBN: 1557834598.  


Swordfighting Basics.   By Michael Shire and Rob Valentine.  Michael Shire, 2003.  56 pages.  ISBN: 0973425105.


The Sword Form: Flying Through Myth and Legend.  By Audi Peal. 


Sword Forum International
  Extensive website with information on the history and use of swords around the world in both military and civilian situations.  


Sword of Doom.   Directed by Kihachi Okamoto.  1966.  ASIN: 6303386717.  Starring Tatsuya Nakadai as a sociopathic samurai.  


Sword Manufacturers, Makers, Distributors, Vendors      


The Sword of No Sword: Life of the Master Warrior Tesshu.  By John Stevens.  Boston, Shambhala, 1994.  176 pages.  ISBN:
1570620504.


The Sword of T'ai Chi Ch'uan.   T'ai Chi Ch'uan Chien (Jien).    By Harvey Kurland.  13 Kb.  


Swordplay and Kung Fu Film Reviews.  


Swords - Kinds of Swords - Definitions  


Swords, Knives, Armor


Swordsman's Companion: A Modern Training Manual for the Medieval Longsword.  By Guy Windsor.  Highland Village, Texas, Chivarlry Bookshelf, 2004.  Bibliography, notes, 222 pages.   ISBN: 1891448412.  VSCL.  A very useful manual for all swordsmen.  


Swordsman II.   Starring Jet Li and Bridgette Lin.  Directed by Siu-Tung Ching and Stanley Tong.  Tai Seng, 1992.  ASIN:  B00000JKWE.  


Swordsmanship in Western Films   


Swordsmanship - Aegis 


Swordsmanship in United Kingdom - Aberdeen Swordsmanship Group


A Swordsmith and His Legacy.   Mr. Chen.  


Swords, Straight, Chinese (Jian, Jen, Chien) - Links, Bibliography, Resources 

 

Sword - T'ai Chi Ch'uan, 32 Form, Yang Style, Taijiquan Jian.  By Michael P. Garofalo.  This popular webpage includes a comprehensive bibliography, scores of links to webpages, an extensive listing of the names and name variations for each movement (English and Chinese), a detailed analysis of each posture and movement sequence with explanations and numbered illustrations, instructions, selected quotations, a comprehensive media bibliography, and a comparison of the 32 and 55 sword forms in the Yang style.  © Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California, January 2008. 
       HTML Version: http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/sword32.htm    165Kb
       PDF Version.  http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/sword32MPGFull.pdf   1.07MB, 63 pages, PDF Print Only Version     
       Yang Style, Standard Orthodox 32 Sword Form, List of 32 Movements, Valley Spirit Taijiquan List: 
                 http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/32SwordFulla.pdf    15Kb, 1 page, PDF Print Only Version
       Yang Style Sword Form, Classical Tai Chi Sword, List of Movements, 55 Movements, Valley Spirit Taijiquan List:
                 http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/sword55.pdf    55Kb, 25 pages, PDF Print Only Version
       Green Way Research: http://www.egreenway.com/index.htm  


Sword Techniques:  Taijiquan Broadsword (Saber, Ox Tail Broadsword, Dao)   Chen Taijiquan Dao, Yang Taijiquan Dao, Wushu Competition Dao


Tai Chi Archives: Weapons


Tai Chi Chien and Tai Chi Tao: Chinese Tools of Bad Omen.  By Dorothy A. Odsen,  Ph.D.  17Kb.  From Black Belt Yearbook, 1982, pp. 56 - 61 .


Tai Chi Depot.


Tai Chi 42 Forms Sword.   By Dr. Paul Lam.  The 42 form is a competition form designed by Professor Kan Gui Xiang.  It blends Yang, Chen, Wu and Sun styles of sword forms.  Instructional VHS videotape, 100 minutes.  Step by step instructions, multiple views and demonstrations.  


Tai-Chi Straight Sword.  By Wong, Doc-Fai.  Yang style straight sword.  Instructional VHS videotapte.   45 minutes.  Demonstration of the form with multiple views.  Step by step repetition of individual movements.  MGC.  


Tai Chi Sword.  Instructional videotape.  Presentation by Master Liang, Shou-Yu.  Directed by Wu, Wen-Ching.  1999.  VHS.   ISBN:  1889659053.  60 minutes.  Step by step teaching of the 32 Form taiji sword routine.  


Tai Chi Sword.  By Dan McGrath.  10Kb


Taiji Sword and Other Writings .  By Chen, Wei-Ming.  Translated by Barbara Davis.  Berkeley, California, North  Atlantic Books, 2000.  Bibliography, 93 pages.  ISBN: 1556433336.  


Tai Chi Sword Forms.   Presented by Bob Klien.  Artistic Video1985, 1995.  Instructional VHS videotape.  ISBN: 6303927688.  


Tai Chi Sword Form.   Peter Lim.   

 

 

Jian Shu - Swordsmanship

 


T'ai-Chi Swordplay and the Eight-Diagram Palm.  By Shing, Yen-Ling.  Tokyo, Japan, Sugawara Martial Arts Institute, 1992.  131 pages.  ISBN: 087040850X.


"Tai Chi Sword Silk Reeling Exercises."  By Phil Perez.  T'ai Chi: The International Magazine of Tai Chi Chuan: Vol. 31, No. 1, February, 2007, pp. 28-37.


T'ai Chi Symbol and Sword Postures.   By Xiao J. Li.  Tai Chi, Vol. 24, No. 5, October 2000, pp. 33-37.  An excellent informative article.


Tai Chi: The 32 Sword Forms
.  Instructional VHS videotape.  Presentation by Dr. Paul Lam.  ASIN: B00005U59Y.  95 minutes.  Step by step teaching, slow and normal speeds, multiple views.  Inculdes demonstration of the 48 Form set.  VSCL.  32 Sword  


T'ai Chi Thirteen Sword: A Sword Master's Manual.  By Stuart A. Olson.   Translations by Stuart Olson.  Burbank, CA, Unique Publications, 1998.  
258 pages.  ISBN: 1892515148.  MGC.   Detailed description and charts for the 61 Movement Yang Style sword form.  


Tai Chi Weapons.  Presented by Peter DeBlasio Jr. M.D..  Instructional VHS videotape, 27 minutes.  DeBlasio is a student of T.T. Liang, and the
two are shown fencing together.  


Tai Chi Weapons in Action.   By Douglas H. Y. Hsieh.  Taiwan, Meadea Enterprises, 1986.  70 pages.


Taiji Jian.   By Dr. Peter Kindfield.   15Kb.  Experiences and practice.  


Taijiquan 32 Sword Standard Form:  Bibliography, Links, Quotes, Notes


Taiji Sword.   Peter Lim.   10 Kb.


Taiji Sword.  By Chen, Wei-Ming.  Translated by Barbara Davis.  North Atlantic Books, 2000.  100 pages.   ISBN: 1556433336.


Taiji Sword (Jian):  Links, bibliography, quotes, notes.


Taiji Sword, Classical Yang Style: The Complete Form, Qigong and Applications.  By Yang, Jwing-Ming.  Edited by James C. O'Leary.  Boston, Mass., YMAA Publications, 1999.  Index, glossary, list of form postures, 205 pages.  ISBN: 1886969744.  VSCL.     


Taiji Sword, Classical Yang Style: The Complete Form, Qigong and Applications.  Instructional VHS videotape.  Presented by Yang, Jwing-Ming.  YMAA Publications, 1999.  82 minutes.  ISBN: 1886969817. 


Taiji Sword in 5 Sections.  Presented by Sam Masich.  Two instructional VHS videotapes.  A 27 movement form developed by Sam Masich.  Tape 1, 80 minutes, teaches the form.  Tape 2, 70 minutes, teaches sword sparring.  


Taiji Swordplay    Presentation and demonstration by Master Wang Peisheng.


Taiji Swords - Makers, Manfactueres, Distributors, Vendors   


Taoism:  Links, Bibliography, Resources, Quotes 


Techniques - Broadsword


Techniques - Sword


Tom, Philip.    Antique sword restoration and sword expert.      


Taoist 8 Immortals Double-Edge Sword Form.  Presented by George Xu.  Demonstrations and basic training.  Instructional VHS videotape, 60 minutes.


The Thirteen Taiji Sword Techniques  


13 Taijijian Techniques (13 Tai Chi Sword Techniques).  Research by Miichael P. Garofalo.  Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California, 2008.  1.  Ji  击
  Strike, hit, break attack, beat, stroke.  2.  Ci  刺   Trust, pierce, sting, prick, stab.  Ge  割   Cut off, Divide, Block Off, Sever, Quarter, Obstruct, Scroll, Blocking.  4.  Xi  洗  Brush Off, Sweep Away, Wash Off, Clean Off.  5.  Chou  抽  Pull Out, Cut Out, Extract.  6. Dai  带   Carry, Leading, Deflecting, Slicing, Lead, Carrying.  7.  Ti  提  Upwards Stroke, Lifting Up, Lift, To Carry Up.  8.  Dian  点  Point, Dot, Spot, Poke.  9.  Peng  迸   Burst Forth, Split Open, Tipping, Gush Out, Burst, Wardoff.   10.  Pi    Split, Hack, Chop, Split Open, Chopping, Cut Apart, Split, Splitting.  11.  Jie  截   Cut Off, Stop, Obstruct, Cutting, Intercept.  12.  Jiao    Stir, Stirring, Mix, Disturb, Agitate.  13.  Ya  搅  Press, Pressing, Press Down, Push Down, Crush, Pressure. 


32 Step Tai Chi Sword.  By Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape.  Step by step teaching and demonstrations.  90 minutes.   Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  


32 Sword Form, Simplified, Yang Style, Taijiquan Jian.  By Michael P. Garofalo.  This popular webpage includes a comprehensive bibliography, scores of links to webpages; an extensive listing of the names and name variations for each movement  in English, Chinese, French, German, and Spanish; a detailed analysis of each posture and movement sequence with explanations and numbered illustrations and detailed instructions; selected quotations; comments on 20 Taijiquan sword techniques; a comprehensive media bibliography; a chart of performance times; and, a comparison of the 32 and 55 sword forms in the Yang style.  This is the standard, simplified, orthodox, 1957, 32 Taiji Sword Form, in the Yang Style of T'ai Chi Ch'uan.  © Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California, January 2008.  245Kb+. 


Traditional Bagua Sword.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.   Instructional VHS videotape, 121 minutes.  Step by step instructions, multiple views, demonstrations.  Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  A 37 posture form created by Grandmaster Liu Jingru.  


Ultimate Guide to Tai Chi.  (The Best of Kung-Fu Magazine).  Edited by John R. Little and Curtis F. Wong.  Chicago, IL, Contemporary Books, 2000.  301 pages. ISBN: 0809228335.   VSCL.    


"Understanding the T'ai Chi Sword."  Transcripts from a lecture and interview with Christopher Pei.  Edited by Shelagh Grandpierre.  T'ai Chi International Magazine of T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Vol. 23, No. 6, pp. 16-21.  


The Unfettered Mind: Writings of the Zen Master to the Sword Master.  By Soho, Takuan.  Translated by William Scott Wilson.  Tokyo, Kodansha
International, 1988.  ISBN:   087011851X.


Videotapes on Taijiquan Sword.  Wayfarer Catalog.  Distributes videotapes by Jiang Jian-ye, Paul Lam, Wang Ji Yung, Shou-Yu Liang, Doc-Fai Wong, Geroge Xu, Lu Yuzhi, Ren Guang Yi.


The Way of Kendo and Kenjitsu: Soul of the Samurai.  By Darrell Max Craig.  YMAA Publications, 2003.  320 pages.  ISBN: 1594390029.


Where can I purchase these books and videotapes?


Wild Goose (Dayan) Qigong


WuDang Taiji Jian   101 Kb.  In Spanish.  


Wu Dang San Feng Tai Chi Sword.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape.  19 form set.  Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations.  117 minutes.  Website: Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.   


Wudang Sanfeng Taiji Sword   Video


Wu Dang Sword:  Bibliography, Links, Quotes, Resources, Notes, Lessons   


Wu Dang Tai Chi Sword - Traditional.   Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape.  This form was created by Grandmaster Li Tian-Ji and named after Wu Dang Mountain.  Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations.  120 minutes.  Website: Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  


Wu Dang Wuji Sword 30 Forms - Traditional.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes.  Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations.  Website: Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  


Wu/Hao Style Tai Chi Sword, Traditional.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  One instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes.  Step by step instructions, multiple views, demonstrations.  A 25 posture sword form.  Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.    


Wushu Swordsmanship   7Kb


Wu Style Tai Chi Sword - Traditional.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.   Two instructional VHS videotapes.  Step by step instructions, multiple views,
demonstrations.  Part 1, 120 minutes.   Part 2, 120 minutes.   Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.    


Xing Yi Quan: Bibliography, Links, Resources, Quotes


Xing-Yi Sword.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Part of the Traditional Xing-Yi I Chuan Series.  Two instructional VHS  videotapes.  Step by step instructions, multiple views, demonstrations.  Tape  1, 120 minutes, postures 1-28.  Tape 2, 120 minutes, postures 29-58.  Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.    

 

 

 

Yang Style Taijiquan Swordsmanship

 

The following two webpages have replaced this section.  They provide more extensive information on Yang Style Sword forms:

Classical Yang Style Taijiquan Sword Form, 55 Movements: Bibliography, Links, Media, Resources, Quotations, List of Movements.  By Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California.  November 2007.  


Orthodox Simplified Taijiquan Sword Form, 32 Movements: Biography, Links, Media, Resources, List of Movements, Explanation and Analysis of all 32 movements with illustrations.  By Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California.  November 2007.  

 

 

Chinese Swordsmanship: The Yang Family Taiji Jian Traditions.  By Scott M. Rodell. Annandale, Virginia, Seven Stars Books and Video, 2003.  304 pages.   Introduction, sword traditions, history, safety, Yang classical form and Michuan Taiji fighting system.   Review   ISBN: 0974399906.   MGC.  The Michuan Jian form is meticulously described and photographed and applications shown on pages 73-184, and the Public Yang Jian is likewise described on pages 185-257.  Applications and swordplay with partners are covered.  The basic Jian cuts are explained on pages 41-64.  


Classical Tai Chi Sword
.  By Petra Kobayashi, Toyo Kobayashi, and Chiang Tao Chi.  Charles E. Tuttle, 2003.   176 pages.  ISBN: 0804834482.   


International Center for the Healing Arts.  Port Townsend, WA.  Michael Gilman Yang style Taijiquan hand and weapons forms.   Instructional videotapes and DVDs, books, and numerous excellent on-line classes are offered.  


International Taiji Sword Festival 2002   DVD format.  Directed by Mark Zimmer.  2002.  Great River Taoist Center.  100 Minutes.  ASIN: B0001YINXG.  Useful for those studying the Yang Family Michuan Taiji Jian system and Scott M. Rodell's book.  Mr. Rodell demonstrates the form.  Also includes the "miaodao" form for two-handed saber. 


List of 55 Movements - Yang Style Taijiquan Sword Form    


List of 32 Movements - Yang Style Taijiquan Sword Form  


Origin of Yang Family Jian.  By Dave Chesser. 


"
T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Sword, Saber, Staff and Dispersing-Hands Combined."  By Chen Yen-lin.  Originally published in China in 1932.  Based on writings compiled by Wu Ho-ching who was a scholar and student of Yang Lu-chan (1799 - 1872).  These written works were obtained by Chen Yen-lin (1906 - ?) from the famous Yang Cheng-fu (1883 - 1936).   This book was very popular in China, helped spread the Yang style Tai Chi Chuan widely, and opened the doors to publishing about internal arts forms.  This book has been compiled and translated by Stuart Alve Olson and published by Dragon Door Publications as the Chen Kung Series, Volumes 1 -5.  


T'ai Chi Thirteen Sword: A Sword Master's Manual.  By Stuart A. Olson.  Translations by Stuart Olson.  Burbank, CA, Unique Publications, 1998.  258 pages.  ISBN: 1892515148.  VSCL.  Detailed description and charts for the 61 Movement Yang Style sword form.  


Taiji Sword and Other Writings .  By Chen, Wei-Ming.  Translated by Barbara Davis.  Berkeley, California, North Atlantic Books, 2000.  Bibliography, 93 pages. VSCL.  ISBN: 1556433336.  


Taiji Sword, Classical Yang Style: The Complete Form, Qigong and Applications.  By Yang, Jwing-Ming.  Edited by James C. O'Leary.  Boston, Mass., YMAA Publications, 1999.  Index, glossary, list of form postures, 205 pages.  ISBN: 1886969744.  VSCL. 


Taiji Sword, Classical Yang Style: List of 55 Movements 


Taiji Sword, Classical Yang Style: the Complete Form, Qigong and Applications.  Instructional VHS videotape.  Presented by Yang, Jwing-Ming.  YMAA Publications, 1999.  82 minutes.  ISBN: 1886969817.  VSCL. 


Thirteen Yang Taiji Sword Techniques 


32 Standard Sword Form - Yang Style


Traditional Yang Style Taiji Sword
.  This instructional videotape features Yang Zhen Dou, 4th generation Yang family, son of Yang Cheng-fu, and Yang Jun, 6th generation, grandson of Yang Zhen Duo.  There is now an "English Version" of this VHS videotape, 180 minutes, from United States Wushu Academy, 7521 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church, VA 22042, Phone: 703-698-8182.  


Valley Spirit Center Taijiquan, Red Bluff, California.  Michael P. Garofalo, Instructor. 


VSCL: Valley Spirit Center Library


Yang Broadsword (Dao, Saber)    


Yang Family Michuan Taiji Sword Martial Applications.   Directed by Mark Zimmer.  Instructional DVD, 59 minutes.  Great River Taoist Center, 2003.  ISBN: B0001KCPFC.  Featuring Scott Rodell. 


Yang Style T'ai Chi Ch'uan:  Links, bibliography, quotes, lists, resources. 


Yang Style Taiji Straight Sword.   By Ted W. Knecht.  17Kb.  


Yang Style Tai Chi Sword.  Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.  Instructional VHS videotape.  Step by step teaching of the 67 posture Yang sword form.  Demonstrations with multiple views, normal and slow speeds.  120 minutes.  Website: Jiang's Tai Chi Videos.  


Yang Style Tai Chi Sword and Broadsword.  The performance of the Tai Chi falchion (saber) and the Tai Chi Swordplay in this DVD is explained and demonstrated by Yang Zhenduo, the 4th-generation exponent of Yang style Tai Chi Chuan and the routine is demonstrated by Mr. Yang Jun, the 6th-generation exponent.  It is the best model to follow in learning the play of typical Yang style Tai Chi Falchion and the Tai Chi Swordplay.  Instructional DVD, 63 minutes.  English and Chinese soundtrack with subtitles.  Available from Tai Chi Depot.  


Yang Style Taijiquan Saber (Dao)


Yang Taiji Jian    List of movements.  PDF format  


Yang Style Tai Chi Sword, Classical, List of Movements, 55 Movements  
Classical Tai Chi Chuan Sword, Taijiquan Jian 55 in the Yang Style: Comparison of Names or Descriptions for the 55 Movements.”  Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California, January 2008.  By Michael P. Garofalo.  This document includes a detailed listing of the names or brief descriptions of the 55 movements of the Classical Taijiquan Straight Sword Form in the Yang Style of Taijiquan.  This document includes names or brief descriptions for each movement in English, Romanized Chinese (Pinyin and/or Wade Giles), Chinese characters, Spanish, French, and German.  The document includes source citations and a bibliography.  In PDF format, print only, 267Kb, 34 pages:
Webpage: http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/Classical Taijiquan Yang Sword Form 55 List Detailed.pdf 


Yang Style Tai Chi Sword, Classical, List of Movements, 55 Movements, Valley Spirit Taijiquan List, Simple List, 2 pages  


Yang Style Taji Sword.  Presented by Yang Zheng-Duo as well as two demonstrations of the complete form by Yang Jun.   Instructional DVD.  Explained by Yang Zhengduo, the 4th-generation exponent of Yang style Taijiquan.  Includes some demonstrations by his grandson, Yang Jun.  Explanation in Mandarin by Yang Zhengduo.  English language voice translation by Christopher Pei.  Made in China.  98 minutes, in color.  Distributed by: Source 1Source 2Source 3, Source 4, Source 5.  Yang Zhengduo is the son of Yang Cheng-Fu; and Yang Jun is the grandson of Yang Zheng-duo. 


Yang Taijiquan Sword Form, 55 Movements: Bibliography, Links, Media, Resources, Quotations, List of Movements.  By Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California.  November 2007.  


Orthodox Simplified Taijiquan Sword Form, 32 Movements, In the Yang Style: Biography, Links, Media, Resources, List of Movements, Explanation and Analysis of all 32 movements with illustrations.  By Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California.  November 2007.  

 

 

 

 


Yojimbo.   Directed by Akira Kurosawa.   Starring Toshiro Mifune.  1961.  ASIN: 6303202055.

 


Zatoichi, the blind master swordsman
in Japan, played by Shintaro Katsu


Zen and Confucious in the Art of Swordsmanship.   By Richard Krammer.  London, Routledge & Kegan Pau, 1978.  


Zen and Japanese Culture.   By Suzuki, Daisetsu.  Princeton, New Jersey, Princeton University Press, 1970.  502 pages.  ISBN: 0691017700.  
Two chapters on swordsmanship.  


Zen and the Ways.   By Trevor Legget.  London, Routledge and Kegan Pau, 1978.  

 


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Jian Shu - Swordsmanship

 

 

Videos Online - Taijiquan Straight Sword (Jian) or Broadsword (Dao)


32 Movement Taijiquan Straight Sword (Jian) Form in the Yang Style, Onine Videos 

Classical Yang Taijiquan Straight Sword (Jian), 55 Movements, Online Videos 

Broadsword (Dao) Form in the Yang Style, Online Videos 

Broadsword (Dao) Form in the Chen Style, Online Videos

 

 

 

Return to the Main Index on this Webpage

 

 

 

Jian Shu - Swordsmanship

 

 

 

Swords

Chinese Straight Double-Edged Sword (Jian) and Single-Edged Broadsword (Dao)
Sword Manufacturers, Makers, Collectors 
Sword and Saber Dealers, Distributors, Vendors, Retailers

 

Antique Arms and Armour.   Seven Stars Trading Company.  Scott Rodell.  

Ascending Dragon Swords   

By the Blade  

By the Sword   

CAS Iberia: Swords, Knives and Weapons   

Chen, Paul    Hanwei Swords

Chinese Arms.   Alex Huangfu of Huangfu Antique Arms   

Chinese Swords 

Chinese Willow Leaf Sword    TherionArms    Replica

Cold Steel Swords   

Dao Broadsword by Hanwei

Dolphin Imports

Dragon Well Forged Weapons  

888 - Broadswords, Swords, Knives   

Hanwei - Swords by Paul Chen 

Heavenly Swords

Knife Depot

Knives Are Us 

Kung Fu Twin Broadswords  

Lungchuan Tai Chi Swords 

Machete Knives   

Mantis - Chinese Swords  

Martial Arts Mart Weapons

Martial Arts Suppliers Links

Medieval Weapon Art   

Purple Heart Wooden Swords 

Sun Moon Qiankun Competition Broadsword (Wushu Dao)    Various sizes

Sword Buyers Guide

Sword Armory   

Swords Direct Broadswords

Swords Direct: Swords, Daggers, Armor, Medieval and Renaissance Weapons

Tai Chi Swords by Paul Chen

Tai Chi Swords1  Swords 2  Superior Martial Arts Supplies   

Tianyang, Chen.   Taiwanese traditional swordsmith.   

Traditional Chinese Weaponry House

Wing Lam Weapons

Wooden Practice Swords

WuShu Broadsword by Han Wei


 

Jian Shu - Swordsmanship

 

 

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Quotations
T'ai Chi Ch'uan Sword, Taijiquan Jian

 

 

"The modern student has many reasons to learn the swords of t'ai chi ch'uan.  It is a developmental exercise teaching relaxation and extension of energy. The sword practice can be a tool for developing harmony in one's mind and body.  It is a method for exercising the upper body. The form can be a way to improve empty-hand t'ai chi skills. And, perhaps most importantly, they can add a new dimension to one's t'ai chi training by linking the student with the history and culture of the art."
-   Harvey Kurland,  The Sword of T'ai Chi Ch'uan

 

 

"The sword represents a symbolic system representing justice and fairness, dignity and honor.  The swordplay is characterized by the balanced body positions and all-around defense and offense techniques.  In swordplay, the smooth body movements, the lightning thrusting and dazzling swings, are synchronized into a fluid rhythm.  Sword, "the king of all weapons," was used by millions of soldiers and warriors all over the world for centuries."
-   Xiao J. Li, T'ai Chi Symbol and Sword Postures, 2000.  

 

 

"This weapon appeared rather late in the Taiji repertoire being first taught in Beijing. The manuals of Wu Yu Xiang do not record a sword form even though there is a sword form in the current Wu Yu Xiang style syllabus. The manual only records the sabre and the spear/staff, this would be in keeping with the times where the sword had already played a lesser role in combat having largely been replaced by the sabre.  The form that was handed down by the Yangs was recorded by in pictorial form by Chen Wei Ming who had studied under Yang Cheng Fu and by Chen Yan Ling who had studied under Tien Shao Ling who was a student of Yang Chien Hou and Yang Shao Hou. The form recorded by both are by and large identical and remains the most extant traditional form of Yang Taiji sword in practice today."
- Peter Lim, Taiji Sword   

 

 

"Weapons at best are the tools of bad omen;
Loathed and avoided by those of the Way."   
-   Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

 

 

"To practice the Tai Chi Sword correctly, the first thing a practitioner must be able to do is to have a flexible body and wrist so that the sword and the body will coordinate and move in unity.  The second thing is that the intent should direct each movement so that all the movements have applications, speed and accuracy. The third thing is to have spirit and natural breathing in each movement. I n usage, it also emphasizes the concepts of sticking and adhering, running and following.  In summary, in order to practice the Tai Chi Sword correctly, a practitioner must execute all the movements in an even, soft, continuous and smooth manner. All the movements are initiated by the waist, controlled by the wrist, with the upper and lower parts of the body coordinated so that when one part of the body moves, all parts follow. When one part stops, all stop. Therefore, all the movements are very light, speedy, flexible, nimble and stable.  People often describe these kinds of motions as like a "swimming dragon and flying phoenix."
-  Vincent Chu,  Gin Soon Tai Chi Chuan Federation Tai Chi Sword Practice

 

 

"Professor Cheng said that the Tai Chi Chuan he practiced was like a tripod: the form, push hands, and the sword.  The goal of swordplay is to combine our Tai Chi quality of stable, heavy rooted-ness with rapid movement.  Be as solid as a tree but quick as a cat.  Work to develop a sense of root even when the form has you leaping off the ground.  The ch'i sets the sword in motion.  After that, like a hawk sailing on wind currents, let the sword ride the currents of gravity and centrifugal force."
-  Wolfe Lowenthal, Gateway to the Miraculous, 1994, p. 26.  

 

 

"To tell the quality of a person’s tai chi forms, we need to examine the following:  (1) The angles of the body when performing each posture and the transitions between each movement; (2) the pace of the movements; (3) the height of each posture. 

A person is considered a good practitioner when he/she can carry out every movement gracefully, with coordination and precision. A good tai chi practitioner keeps the almost same height during the execution of the form. He/she does not bob up and down. The ending form finishes in the place the opening form began.  The form is practiced in a constant and regular pace. The movements of the limbs should be coordinated with the waist. 

All postures should be erect, coordinated, continuous, flowing, and balanced throughout the forms. The whole body should be relaxed. Each posture demostrated Eight Balances: 1. Top and Down balance; 2. Front and Back blance; (3) Left and Right balance; 4. Inside and Outside balance. These Eight Balances or Harmonies come from Taoism, the foundation of Tai Chi."
- Cheng Zhao, Ph.D, Terre Haute, Indiana, Tai Chi Sword

 

 

 

Disclaimer

Warning:  Practicing with Sword Weapons Can Be a Dangerous Activity for Adults.  Please Use Caution!

 

 

 

The Sword of Wisdom

Ever since the adepts handed on
The secret of the sword,
The true imperative has been upheld
Completely, truly adamant.

If someone asks me about 
Looking for its origin,
I say it is not ordinary iron.
This lump of iron
Comes from receptive stillness;
When you obtain it, it rises up.

Forging it in a glowing fire,
Through repeated efforts
It is refined
And forged into steel.

When students of the Tao
Know this secret,
The spirit of light is intensely powerful,
And devils of darkness vanish.

The subtle function of spiritual work
Is truly hard to measure;
I now give an explanation for you.
In telling you about it
I divulge the celestial mechanism.

Setting to work when one yang comes back,
First have the six yangs pump the furnace bellows;
Then the six yins work the tongs and hammer.
When the work of firing is complete,
It produces the sword;
When it is first done,
It flashes like lightning.

Brandish it horizontally
And a cold clear breeze arises;
Hold it upright,
And the shining bright moon appears.
Auspicious light illumines heaven and earth;
Sprites and ghosts are distressed.

It stops turbidity, brings out clarity,
Sweeps away weird defilements;
It slays volatility,
Cuts down aggressiveness,
Destroys monsters:
Influences draining away
Vitality, energy and spirit
All vanish in the light of the sword.

Entanglements are cut off, rumination dies down,
And the web of feelings is rent asunder.
Where the spiritual edge is aimed, mountains crumble;
The demon kinds of mundane planes are all routed.

This precious sword fundamentally has no form;
The name is set up because it has spiritual effect.
Learning the Tao and practicing reality
Depend on this sword:
Without this sword,
The Tao cannot be achieved.

Opening up the vast darkness,
Distinguishing heaven and earth,
Dissolving obstructions, transmuting objects -
All is included.
If you ask me to show it to you,
I bring it out before you -
Do you understand or not?

-   The Book of Balance and Harmony
    Translated by Thomas Cleary, 1989, p. 115-117

 

 

 

 

Ace of Swords
Aleister Crowley, Thoth Tarot Deck,1969
Ordo Templi Orientis
Painted by Lady Frieda Harris
U.S. Games Systems, Inc.

 

 

 

 

"The same principles of the basic t'ai chi ch'uan form are used with both the tao and chien: natural breathing, body upright, keeping the movements integrated, coordinated, and flowing smoothly, etc.  he difference is in the focus. For the tao, the broadsword, the focus is on the blade. For the chien, the narrow, double-edged sword, the focus is on the tip. The chien is considered the higher art form, and is more difficult to learn. The tao is basically a chopping and slicing weapon; little skill is needed for that.  It was generally the weapon of the common soldier. The chien was used by the more scholarly and aristocratic Chinese. ...  Sword tai chi is a very rewarding experience at any level.  It’s movements, done correctly, develop one’s awareness, timing, grace, and continued good health"  
-   Dorothy A. Odsen, Tai Chi Chien   

 

 

"The straight sword is a beautiful ancient weapon first mentioned in China's oldest written records and deserves a little indulgent aside all to itself, particularly as it is the weapon most associated with Tai Chi and with Daoism in general.

The straight sword is a flexible blade which is not able to meet force with force, instead the blade is used to deflect and redirect blows before delivering a slash or stab of its own. This nature of the weapon lends itself naturally to the principles of Tai Chi. It is so hard to master that it is often called the "King of Weapons" and perhaps for that reason was a weapon of choice for famous generals and scholars.

In fact there are two types of straight sword. The bigger heavier sword was called the martial sword (Wu Jian) or male sword (Xiong Jian) and had a sharp tip. The lighter shorter sword was called the scholar sword (Wen Jian) or female sword (Ci Jian) and had a slightly rounded tip. The martial sword was originally designed to be taken into battle but was not as practical in peace time, so the scholar sword was used instead as an everyday defence weapon. Traditionally every official and aristocrat would wear a sword to court.

The straight sword has a particular connection with Daoist religion. It is considered the only weapon able to banish evil spirits, so was always used in exorcism ceremonies. This is done to this day, the place of a real sword often taken by a special sword shape woven out of Chinese coins.

The Wudang Tai Chi sword is particularly famous and is often considered the highest form of swordplay. It is often paired with Shaolin staff as the two symbols of Chinese martial arts: Wudang Sword and Shaolin Staff, Internal and External."
-  Real Wushu Scholar, Tai Chi Sword

 

 

"The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) saw publication of A New Treatise on Disciplined Service (Jixiao xinshu) by General Qi Jiguang (1528-1587).  Qi's book included a chapter called the "Boxing Classic" (Quanjing).  In that chapter, Qi listed more than a dozen boxing styles.   He selected thirty-two moves from them and constructed an amalgamated routine.  The chapter includes pictures of the move and mnemonic rhymes about their application.  Qi noted that boxing was not of use against superior arms, but was still useful for its discipline.  The book also included an excerpt of Yu Dayou's (1503-1580) treatise on weapons call the "Sword Classic" (Jianjing), which exhibited concepts such as softness, listening, and sticking that we now associate with taijiquan."
-   Barbara Davis, The Taijiquan Classics, 2004, p. 4

 

Jian Shu - Swordsmanship

 

 

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T'ai Chi Ch'uan 13 Straight Sword Techniques
13 Taiji Jian Techniques or Energies

Taijiquan Straight Sword Techniques

 

 

 

Jian Shu - Swordsmanship

 

Return to the Main Index on this Webpage

 

 

Yang Sword Form
Yang Taijiquan Style Sword (Jian) 55 Movement Form

 

 

 

 

 

Green Way Journal by Michael P. Garofalo

 

 

 

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Disclaimer

Warning:  Practicing with Sword Weapons Can Be a Dangerous Activity for Adults.  Please Use Caution!

 

Michael P. Garofalo's E-mail


Valley Spirit Taijiquan

 

Red Bluff, Tehama County, North Sacramento Valley, Northern California, U.S.A.
Cities in the area: Oroville, Paradise, Durham, Chico, Hamilton City, Orland, Corning,
Rancho Tehama, Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Manton, Cottonwood, 
Anderson, Shasta Lake, Palo Cedro, and Redding, CA

 

© Green Way Research, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Michael P. Garofalo, 2008, All Rights Reserved.  Red Bluff, California. 

 

T'ai Chi Ch'uan Taijiquan Chien Jien Jian Jen, Gim, Straight Sword
Taiji Jian, Taiji Sword, Taijijian, Chien, Jien, Sword, Jian, Jen
Straight Sword, TaiChi Knife, Blade, Rapier
Chinese Swordsmanship, Swordplay, Fencing
Tai Chi Chuan, Taijiquan, T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Tai Chi, Tai Ji Quan, Taiji, Tai Ji Chuan
Recommended Selected Reviews - Tai Chi Wushu Jian Sword Books, Videos, Videotapes, DVDs