The 6 Stages of Learning Chen Tai Chi - Part 3 of 3

This post is the third in a 3-part series that also covers

Learning Stages 1 and 2 and
Learning Stages 3 and 4.

If you've not yet read first two posts in the series, you'll find them at the links listed above.

Learning Essentials - Stage 5

Only when the fourth stage is mastered does one move on to the fifth stage—"Examining the Frame" (pan jiazi). In this stage, by way of careful observation and study, the student more thoroughly apprehends and implements the finest details of every aspect of a routine. (Examples: making certain A. each movement, transition, and body position is correctly counterbalanced in all directions, B. the entire body performs in unison, C. the lower body stays strong while the upper body stays light, etc.)

Learning Essentials - Stage 6

The sixth stage is known as cia jiazi or “Dismantling the Frame”. This is the point at which the student begins to learn the martial arts applications of the moves he/she has mastered. One movement at a time, the various defensive uses within the already familiar Tai Chi form are revealed and practiced. In this stage, though there is no actual opponent, one practices as if an opponent is present.

Summing It Up

The intention of The 6 Stages of Learning is to deliver consistent yet progressively more detailed messages to the brain, body, and nervous system; these messages result in muscle memory and the ability to control the flow of internal energy. Movements become smooth, strong, flexible, comfortable and, importantly, instinctive. The beauty and skill of Tai Chi become a natural part of who you are!

The Six Stages of Learning Chen Tai Chi series consists of
Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3