“陈氏太极功，
妙在缠丝中，
若得其间巧，
勤学苦功恒。
天才拳论”
“Chen-style Tai Chi’s skill,
Lies in the silk-reeling energy’s wheel.
To grasp its subtle art,
Practice hard with patient heart.”
— Grandmaster Zhu Tiancai (朱天才)
Chen-style Tai Chi is renowned for its dynamic movements, explosive power, and—most distinctively—its chán sī jìn (缠丝劲), or silk-reeling energy. Unlike the slow, flowing forms of Yang or Wu styles, Chen Tai Chi combines softness and hardness, coiling and releasing in spiralling motions that mimic the unwinding of a silk thread.
What Is Silk-Reeling Energy (缠丝劲)?
Silk-reeling energy is the foundational force in Chen Tai Chi, characterised by:
- Spiralling Movements – Every motion, whether obvious or subtle, follows a coiled path.
- Continuous, Unbroken Flow – Like drawing silk from a cocoon, the energy must remain smooth and unbroken.
- Integration of Whole-Body Power – The rotation originates from the dantian (core), spiralling outward through the limbs.
This energy is not just physical—it trains the body to move as a connected unit while cultivating internal strength (内劲, nèi jìn).
Why Is Silk-Reeling Energy So Important?
- Develops Internal Strength
- Unlike brute force, silk-reeling energy uses whole-body coordination, making movements both relaxed and powerful.
- The coiling and uncoiling motion strengthens tendons and improves joint flexibility.
- Enhances Martial Application
- In combat, silk-reeling allows effortless redirection of an opponent’s force.
- The spiralling motion generates fa jing (explosive power) without telegraphing movements.
- Deepens Qi Circulation
- The twisting motions stimulate meridian pathways, promoting better Qi flow.
- Practitioners often report improved vitality and balance from consistent training.
How to Train Silk-Reeling Energy
Chen-style Tai Chi has specific drills to develop this skill:
1. Basic Silk-Reeling Exercises (缠丝功)
- Standing or moving drills that focus on rotating the arms, legs, and waist in spirals.
- Example: “Positive & Negative Circles” – Practising inward and outward rotations to ingrain the movement.
2. Slow Form Practice (套路练习)
- The Laojia (Old Frame) forms emphasise silk-reeling in every posture.
- Key moves like “Buddha’s Warrior Pounds Mortar” (金刚捣碓) and “Lazily Tying Coat” (懒扎衣) showcase coiling energy.
3. Push Hands (推手) & Partner Drills
- Applying silk-reeling in interactive practice helps refine sensitivity and energy redirection.
“Genius Lies in Diligent Practice”
The old saying goes:
“Chen Tai Chi’s skill is found in silk-reeling,
But mastery demands relentless training.”
There are no shortcuts—only through correct repetition can one internalise this profound skill.
Final Thought: The Essence of Chen Tai Chi
Silk-reeling energy is what makes Chen-style Tai Chi unique. It bridges the gap between health cultivation and martial effectiveness, making it a true internal art.
Are you practising silk-reeling in your Tai Chi? Share your insights below!
Join Beginner Class with Chen Tai Chi Academy in Perth now!