About the Cheng Man Ching 37-Step Tai Chi Form

The Cheng Man Ching short form is a beautifully refined version of the Yang style, distilled into 37 movements that emphasise softness, balance, and effortless flow. It’s accessible for beginners yet endlessly deep for long‑term practitioners. Every posture teaches you how to relax more fully, move with intention, and connect breath, body, and mind.

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How I Teach the Form

I specialise in teaching Tai Chi in a way that is gentle, clear, and deeply practical—especially for beginners and seniors. My approach focuses on helping you shift from remembering moves to feeling the form. Rather than rushing through the sequence, we explore how each movement connects to the next, how to find stability in your stepping, and how to let the body soften so the form becomes natural and enjoyable.

Whether you’re completely new or already familiar with the 37 steps, my classes create a calm, supportive space where you can develop confidence, improve balance, and experience the meditative flow of Tai Chi.

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Why People Love This Form

• It’s shorter and easier to learn than the traditional long form

• It emphasises relaxation over strength

• It improves balance, posture, and coordination

• It’s ideal for busy people who want a meaningful practice

• It’s perfect for seniors and beginners who appreciate a gentle, accessible style

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Cheng Man Ching Short Form — Movement List ​

• Preparation

• Beginning

• Ward Off Left

• Ward Off Right

• Roll Back

• Press

• Push

• Single Whip

• Lift Hands

• Elbow Stroke

• White Crane Spreads Wings

• Brush Knee

• Play Guitar

• Brush Knee

• Step Up, Parry & Punch

• Withdraw & Push

• Cross Hands

• Carry Tiger to Mountain

• Diagonal Single Whip

• Fist Under Elbow

• Repulse Monkey (1)

• Repulse Monkey (2)

• Repulse Monkey (3)

• Diagonal Flying

• Wave Hands Like Clouds

• Single Whip

• Snake Creeps Down

• Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg (Right)

• Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg (Left)

• Separation Kick

• Separation Kick

• Heel Kick

• Brush Knee

• Brush Knee

• Punch Low

• Part the Wild Horse's Mane

• Grasp Sparrow's Tail 

• Single Whip

• Fair Lady Works the Shuttles (Four Corners)

• Grasp Sparrow's Tail 

• Single Whip

• Snake Creeps Down

• Step Up to Seven Stars

• Retreat to Ride Tiger

• Turn Body, Lotus Kick

• Bend Bow, Shoot Tiger

• Step Up, Parry & Punch

• Closing Form