TAI CHI CHUAN
THE COMPLETE MARTIAL ART
Geert Van Loo
Tai
chi chuan originated in Ming-dynasty China (1368-1644) where it attained its
full development within Taoist circles. Ancient healing and relaxation techniques
such as flexibility and breathing exercises as well as meditative training methods
were combined with just as ancient offensive and defensive tactics.
This resulted in a new and very effective fighting and healing art we now know
as tai chi chuan.
During the Ching-dynasty (1644-1911) tai chi chuan primarily caused a furore because of its martial character. Today tai chi chuan is still highly appreciated as a form of self-defence because of its effectiveness. But nowadays it’s mainly the health aspect of this traditional Chinese art that attracts the larger crowds. Provided that tai chi chuan is practiced regularly and correctly it can have very beneficial effects on one’s health.
This book offers a complete and clear view of tai chi chuan, both as a healing art and as a martial art. Next to a detailed description of its background philosophy and its fascinating history, the complete traditional long form and its fighting applications are shown through more than 650 step-by-step photos. Click on photos for a preview.
Geert Van Loo (°1970) started his training in the oriental martial arts
in 1982 with shotokan karate. Later he switched to practicing the southern Chinese
kung-fu styles pak mei and choy lay fut. He began training in tai chi chuan
at the age of 13, learning the simplified Cheng Man-ching version of Yang-style
and shortly after the more traditional Tung Ying-chieh version under dr. Dan
Vercammen (Belgium).
However, his interest for a more combative approach to tai chi chuan eventually
led him to Dan Docherty (Great Britain), chief instructor of Practical Tai Chi
Chuan International, whom he started learning from in 1988.
In the meantime he has taught many students himself and has won several international
tournaments. Today he is the chairman and chief instructor of Chinese Boxing
Club.
Paperback - 212 pages - € 15,00
ISBN : 90 5466 581 5
Published by Globe (Roularta Books), Belgium
Currently only available in Dutch and Hungarian through bookstores or directly via Roularta Books.
Contact the publisher for information about forthcoming editions in English and other languages :
roulartabooks@roularta.be or www.roulartabooks.be.