Threads of Gold Tai Chi & QiGong Institute

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High kicks are NOT a traditional part of Yang Style
Taijiquan.

Yang Taijiquan kicks were never intended to be high kicks.

That statement is generally considered true in the context of traditional, combat-oriented Yang Taijiquan, although it is frequently misunderstood in modern, health-focused practices.
According to traditional principles of Yang Taijiquan, kicks were designed to be low, stable, and practical, with high kicks often considered risky or impractical for real self-defense scenarios.

Here is a breakdown of the role and height of kicks in Yang Taijiquan:
1. Traditional Purpose (Low Kicks)
Targeting: Kicks in traditional Yang Tai Chi are intended for the lower extremities, groin, or torso.
Stability over Height: The emphasis is on maintaining rooting (balance) and protecting the "center" (the pelvis/lower back).
Self-Defense Reality: High kicks are often seen as risky for self-defense because they make the practitioner easy to unbalance.
Practicality: In combat, low heel kicks or "knee-level" kicks are more reliable, harder to see, and easier to execute without breaking balance.

2. The Shift to High Kicks (Modern/Demonstration)
Flexibility Training: While not used high in combat, practitioners may practice high kicks to improve hip flexibility, balance, and strength, which ultimately enhances low-kick effectiveness.
Demonstration vs. Application: In many modern Yang forms (e.g., standard 24 or 108 forms), kicks are performed higher for demonstration purposes, aesthetic appeal, and to show control.
Modification: The "Separation Kick" in the Yang long form is sometimes performed high to touch the hand (as seen in demonstrations), but the same movement can be executed at a lower, more practical height.

3. Key Takeaway
While you may see many high kicks in modern, competitive Tai Chi demonstrations, the original martial application of Yang Style Taijiquan favors low, penetrating, and secure kicks over high, acrobatic ones. Kicking low allows the practitioner to keep the supporting leg slightly bent, maintaining their "root" (stability) while striking the opponent's weaker lower body.

See old picture of Grand Master Yang Chenfu below

Awesome, easy to follow video of the Yang Style Short Form Tai Chi in Rear View

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Tomorrow morning I will be at the 50+ Active Living Fair at the Dunlop Seniors Centre. I will have a display set-up from 10am to 2pm.
But I'll be setting up at 9am
You're welcome to drop by anytime during the event and tell people what you think of our classes and what you personally get out of Tai Chi and Qigong.

Hey St. Catharines! We're in the 50+ Active Living Fair on March 4th. Come out and see the Roturner in action. There will be 40 fantastic vendors and a ton of great information. We can't wait to see you! Date: March 4th, 2025 Time: 10:00am-2:00pm Location: Dunlop Drive Centre | 80 Dunlop Dr. St. Catharines https://www.stcatharines.ca/en/recreation-and-leisure/older-adult-centres.aspx#Older-Adult-Centre-Events