Andrey Shvets

Tai Chi Chuan Self-Defense

The Eight Gates of Tai Chi Chuan can be practised as a set of self-defense moves
against the most common types of attacks. This practice will bring you closer to
the origins of Tai Chi Chuan, which is an ancient Chinese form of exercise
originally created as a martial art. In addition, such a training will teach you to
defend against real attacks, and will reveal the combat potential of Tai Chi Chuan
complexes.

The book describes The Eight Gates as a set of self-defense moves against eight
types of attacks. Also, a link is provided to an online simulator, which simulates
various types of enemy attacks. Training with an online simulator allows you to
improve response speed and learn how to spontaneously apply the basic technique
of Tai Chi Chuan.
Peng – Ward Off
The opponent pushes you in the shoulder with his hand. Take a small step forward
and to the side. Draw the enemy into a joint circular motion and push him away
using centrifugal force of rotation.
An – Push
The opponent pushes you with his both hands. First step back, yielding to his
effort. Then, when your opponent begins to regain his balance, step forward and
push him. It is very important that the push is directed not only away from
yourself, but also downwards.
Lui – Roll Back
The opponent throws a punch at you. Step back and push the opponent with your
hand in the direction of his movement, forcing him to fall forward. Movement is
the main method of defense against punches in Tai Chi Chuan.
Ji – Press
The opponent kicks you. Move to the side and dodge the kick. Push your opponent
away from you. Press one of your hands with the forearm against the body of your
opponent, and push away his hand with your second hand.
Lieh – Split
The opponent grabs you by the clothes on your chest. Step back, dragging your
opponent along. Then, with a circular motion of the hand, knock down your
opponent or make him release the hold.
Chou – Elbow Stroke
The opponent grabs your wrist and pulls it towards himself. Move forward,
yielding to your opponent ’s effort, while bending your arm and squirming it free
from the grip. Push your opponent away with your elbow.
Kao – Shoulder Stroke
The opponent comes closer and tries to wrap his arms around you in front. Push
your opponent to the side and back from yourself with a circular motion of the
body and shoulder using the energy of his own movement.
Tsai – Pluck or Grasp
The opponent is trying to grab your from behind. Lean sharply and make your
opponent fall forward using the energy of his own movement.
Online Simulator
Follow the link shvets.xyz/taichi.html to proceed to the website with an online
simulator. Instantly respond to attacks that will be displayed on the screen. Do your
best to get a feel of all the efforts that would arise in your body when performing
the moves with a real opponent.

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