1. The Nature of Taijiquan
In this framework, Taijiquan refers to four distinct but interrelated concepts.
- A discipline—that studies the hidden connection and interplay between the human mind, body, and movement.
- A body of ideas — that includes beliefs, concepts, and principles.
- An art—that follows and applies Taijiquan’s ideas.
- Taijiquan Form—an exercise consisting of structured movements.
2. Taijiquan as a Discipline
Thousands of years ago, Chinese sages immersed themselves in profound contemplation, stripping away worldly distractions to reflect upon the universal laws governing existence—including the origins and destiny of humanity.
In this state of unparalleled serenity, they made unexpected discoveries about the inner workings of both the mind and the body. Through their explorations, they came to understand that the mind, when properly trained, could consciously direct the muscles—a realization later encapsulated in the maxim: “The mind is the master, while the body is the servant.”
This is the origin and nature of Taijiquan as a discipline grounded in the conscious training of mind and body.
3. Taijiquan as a Body of Ideas
As the result of the inquiry of this discipline, Taijiquan generated a body of theory, including beliefs (such as “the mind is the master, while the muscles are the servant”), concepts (such as Jin, Relax, and Yi), and principles (such as “movement is triggered and driven by Yi, the command of the mind”), fighting strategy （such as borrowing power from the opponents）.
4. Taijiquan as an Art
Taijiquan, as an art, may be expressed in martial art practice, fighting skills, or in practical, real-world contexts such as gently restraining an agitated patient, nonviolently subduing a suspect, or performing work involving repeated loading and unloading of goods.
In the future, Taijiquan as a martial art may represent only a small part of its expression within its broad spectrum of applicability.
5. Taijiquan as Taijiquan Form
Taijiquan Form, commonly regarded as Taijiquan itself, is a form of exercise consisting of structured movements guided by Taijiquan’s principles, aimed at developing the ability to apply its ideas across a variety of movements.
Taijiquan Forms play a role similar to exercise books in mathematics or other disciplines, helping students apply the principles of a discipline to preset circumstances, thereby deepening their understanding of the discipline and honing their skill in application.
6. The Use of the Term “Taijiquan”
For consistency and convenience, this book uses the term “Taijiquan” interchangeably to refer to these four narrower senses, unless otherwise specified by context.
Note: The content of this page is excerpted from Chapters 12,24, and 31 of Mastering Taijiquan in the Modern Age.
Taijiquan Framework 