Cheng Tzu's Thirteen Treatises on T'ai Chi Ch'uan

I bought this book after leaving my highly competent and persuasive instructor to pursue the 37 short form by and for myself. I began to study the form as an antidote to grief following the death of my beloved mother, and as a result of my own exertions, and having used only this book to complement my studies, I have come to two conclusions. The first: Cheng Tzu's compression of the Yang family long form attains a rare perfection for which all students of t'ai chi ch'uan should be truly grateful; the second, which creates a difficulty for the reader: the student can only benefit from the treasures this book contains after several years of patient, diligent and conscientious study of the master's form. I am fortunate to have read the book before and after, so to speak, and I can attest to the refractory nature of writing on martial arts in general and chi studies in particular. The reader may think (s)he knows what is being said, but true understanding only comes from knowledge derived from prior experience. So, if you are serious in your intent, find an instructor who can trace his or her lineage back to Cheng Man Ch'ing -- there are few enough of them about -- and undertake serious study of the form for at least five years, then buy this book and reap the rewards of your efforts. Alas, there are no short cuts to the elevated mastery of form delineated by Cheng Tzu in this book.

Arrived in new condition. Happy with purchase.

insights by a well-respected master

This is a meaty, little book. It is filled with quite a lot of information about Tai Chi and its practice. I see it as something I'll return to again and again. You know, maybe reread a chapter at a time and chew on it. I expect it will continue to deepen my understanding of Tai Chi

Very good book. Very helpful to have a good understanding of tai chi and the related philosophy to get an understanding of what he means. You have to be willing to research points he makes but doesn't explain. Not an issue if you want to grow, right?

This is ultimate treatise on the Yang style, CMC 37 step T'ai Chi Ch'uan. A must have for students of the art. If you're dying to know where your tan t'ien is located, this is the book for you.

I bought this for the first time and have owned many copies later. It is a go to book for all sorts of beneficial reasons. It unmasks many of the common delusions in society and the martial arts communities of what the true practices and principles are and are not for the Tai Chi Chuan practicing community.

I read from it everyday before I do the Tai Chi form. It has been invaluable in terms of keeping me focused on the principles of correctly breathing, correct alignment, correct foot position etc. A book that I will read and reread.

A classic reference book for all students of Taiji

Interesting, notions to know and internalise to understand what Professor Cheng meant. Absolutely recommended to anyone interested in deepening their practice

Good learning aid for the beginner and also a reminder for advanced students

Excellent guide to the subtile world of taichi

A tai chi must have