Interview with Chen Zhenglei

Q. What can you tell us about the state of Taijiquan in China today?

A. In 1978, the Communist party began its open door policy. The media began to report stories about Tajiquan, and as a result, more people became aware of it. International exchanges began to occur, and more people became aware of Taijiquan across the world. In the past 5 to 6 years, the Chinese government has become more interested in the promotion of Taijiquan. Today there are many different Taijiquan competitions that occur in China.

The government spent several million (chinese) dollars to build a large martial arts academy in Wenxian, near Chenjiagou. So far, there have been four international Taiji Conferences held there. Over 33 countries have been represented, with over 300 competitors attending. There are over 90 international organizations which participate. There are three separate arenas for competition. All the major styles are represented.

Events include barehand routines, weapons, demonstrations, and push hands, including lei tai, in which the competitors meet on raised platforms. Whoever is forced off the platform loses. The pushing hands competition is not restricted like it is in the US: it is free style. Other than kicking, punching, grabbing hair, biting, using elbows, knees and head butting, "anything goes".

Q. Do you have any impressions to share with us regarding your first visit to the US?

A. I am impressed by the cleanliness of the environment here. Everywhere I go, everything looks so clean. And the people are very friendly and welcoming. This has left a deep impression on me.

The students I have taught here are very hard working. Everyone has such a strong desire to learn. This pleases me, and makes me want to teach them more, and make their movements more correct. Hopefully these students will help spread the seeds of Chenjiagou Taijiquan in the US. As we say, "small sparks start a big fire". Wherevever I travel to teach, I tell my students that although Taijiquan was begun by the Chen family in Chenjiagou, it belongs to all of mankind.

It is my hope that people will work together to make Taiji very popular all over the world. Hopefully, Taijiquan, one of the precious pearls of the east, will become a tool for the benefit of everyone, regardless of nationality.

Sources: "My Father, Chen Zhaopei" by Chen Kesen, Henan Tiyu Bao, 4/22/93. Translated by Greg Bissell in The Chen Style Journal, Vol 3 no. 1, Spring 1995.