THE TAI CHI SABRE FORM

The Tai Chi Sabre (or broadsword) is distinguished from the Tai Chi Sword in that the former has only one sharp edge and the blade broadens towards the tip and is slightly curved. The Tai Chi Sword has two sharp edges and the blade is perfectly stright with parallel sides.

The broadsword form utilizes this asymmetry of the sword in many of its movements. In my view it is very energetic and draws strongly on abilities of balance and rotation in its frequent poses on a single leg and frequent rotation. It also develops the notions of attack and retreat very pointedly, particularly in the Jade Lady sequences.

The Wushu Sabre Form (Tai Chi Tao) is composed of the following movements. The terminology and enumeration are slightly adapted from the classical breakdown of the form into thirteen postures.

1. Step up to Seven Stars
2. Ride a Tiger
3. Turn, Thrust and Spread with Sabre
4. Form a Level Line with Arms & Sabre
5. White Crane Spreads its Wings
6. Wind Rolls the Lotus Leaves
7. Jade Lady works the Shuttles
   1. Northeast
   2. East
   3. Northwest
   4. Southwest
   5. West
   6. Southeast
   7. Northeast
   8. East

   

8. Sabre Moves In and Out
9. Strike a Tiger With the Right Foot
10. Strike a Tiger Over the Right Knee
11. Open Sabre like walk of a Mandarin Duck
12. Push the Boat With the Current
13. Three Movements of the Sabre
14. Sabre Parts the Waters
15. Phoenix Returns to Roost

More on the Tai Chi Sabre Form from Peter Lim.