Short History of Yang style Tai Chi
Yang style Tai Chi Chuan is named after the Yang family. Yang LuChan (1799-1872) learned boxing from Chen ChangXing (1771-1853) while he was employed in the Chen Village. Later when Yang LuChan returned to his home in Yongnian county he gained recognition for his boxing ability. Yang LuChan became even more famous after moving to Beijing where he was employed by the royal court. His skill earned him the nickname "Yang the Invincible."
Yang LuChan trained his sons Yang JianHou (1839-1917) and Yang BanHou (1837-1892) in his boxing style. They both became very skilled due to the harsh training that their father put them through. Yang BanHou also earned the nickname "Yang the Invincible" because of his great boxing skill.
Yang JianHou’s most famous sons were Yang ChenFu (1883-1936) and Yang ShaoHou (1862-1930). Yang ShaoHou was very skilled and learned most of his skill from his uncle Yang BanHou. He practiced the "Small Frame." The characteristics of his style were lively footwork, well-knit small movements, and alternating quick with slow actions. "He was swift and powerful in delivering his blows and, with eyes blazing like torches, a grim smile on his face and roaring and howling as he darted back and forth, he was held in awe by others." He was also very rough on his students and therefore his teachings are not as wide spread as his brother Yang ChenFu’s are today.
Yang ChenFu was not only very skilled but his teachings are the most popular and widespread today. His style is also known as the "Large Frame." The movements of his form are extended, rounded, graceful, and preformed at a slow even pace. People of all ages and health constitutions can practice and benefit from this style. The postures are soft on the outside but conceal hardness within which is described as steel wrapped in cotton.