108 form tai chi is one of the most comprehensive kungfus in traditional Yang Style Tai Chi. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, mastering the 108 moves of Tai Chi can enhance balance, flexibility, and mental clarity.

In this guide, you’ll know the history, benefits, and structure of the Tai Chi 108 Form, along with resources like instructional videos on Tai Chi 108 moves YouTube.

What Is The 108 Form Tai Chi?

Yang style 108 Tai Chi is one of the most classic and complete traditional routines in Tai Chi. It is famous for its stretching, gentle, slow, and flexible characteristics. As a representative long routine of Yang Style Tai Chi, 108 form tai chi integrates health, martial arts, and wisdom and is suitable for long-term practitioners to study in depth. The name “Yang Style 108 Forms Tai Chi” contains 3 key information:

• “Yang Style”—Tai Chi style (created by Yang Luchan).
• “108 Forms” – the number of movements.
• “Tai Chi” – belongs to the Chinese martial arts system.

Key Features of the 108 Tai Chi Moves List

Full Structure

• 108 Tai Chi Movements: It covers all fundamental Tai Chi techniques.
• Balanced Sections: Divided into 6 parts, making it easier to learn.
• Full-Body Engagement: Works on upper body, lower body, and core in harmony.

Flowing Movements

• Soft and Continuous: No abrupt stops; each move flows into the next like a river.
• Spiral Force: Many moves use twisting motions to develop internal energy.
• Large and Open Moves: Wide movements, promoting flexibility and relaxation.

Martial and Self-Defense

• Every move has combat meaning. Hidden power in slow motion: though the moves are gentle, each technique bursts with explosive force.

Health and Meditation Benefits

• Deep Breathing: Natural abdominal breathing benefits oxygen flow.
• Meridian Stimulation: Gentle stretches improve Qi circulation in energy pathways.
• Stress Relief: The slow rhythm induces a meditative state, calming your mind.

Traditional Chinese Cultural Significance

• Based on Daoist philosophy, it follows principles of wu wei and natural harmony.
• 108 Symbolism: It symbolizes perfection (like 108 beads in Buddhist mala).
• Historical Lineage: Passed down from Yang Luchan → Yang Chengfu to modern masters.

108 Form Tai Chi Steps

There are three parts to 108 form Tai Chi. The first part contains 1-16 steps, the second part contains 17-56 steps, and the third part contains 57-108 steps. The 108 tai chi moves list as follows

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Awareness Tai Chi 108 Moves

The “Awareness Tai Chi 108 Moves” is a full and meditative form of Tai Chi that focus on mindfulness, fluid movement, and Qi. The awarness 108 move is a traditional long-form practice, derived from Yang style Tai Chi, but with a strong focus on awareness, relaxation, and internal energy flow.

Unlike physical Tai Chi forms, this practice integrates deep mental focus, breath synchronization, and body awareness. Each movement is performed with intention, fostering a meditative state.

FAQs

Is tai chi a religion?

Tai Chi, also known as Tai Chi Chuan, is not a religion. It is a Chinese martial art and mind-body practice that combines slow movements, meditation, and breathing exercises. However, its origins are deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy, particularly Taoism (Daoism), which focus on harmony with nature, balance, and the flow of energy.

Tai Chi is more of philosophical or spiritual worldview than a structured religion. Most practitioners in Tai Chi for its health benefits rather than spiritual or religious reasons. It is often as a form of exercise or moving meditation. Tai Chi has no dogma, sacred texts, or religious hierarchy.

What to wear for tai chi?

When practicing Tai Chi, comfort, flexibility, and free moves are key. The tai chi clothing allows you to move flexible while maintaining posture and breathing.

Choosing lightweight, loose clothing like cotton, linen, or synthetic blends. Avoid stiff or tight fabrics that restrict your movement. Loose-fitting tunic, T-shirt, or tank top paired with wide-leg pants, yoga pants, or traditional Tai Chi/Kung Fu trousers.

Good grip like Tai Chi shoes, ballet flats, or minimalist sneakers are ideal. The soles make you to feel the ground and pivot easily. Many practitioners go barefoot or wear grip socks on smooth indoor surfaces to enhance balance and grounding.

Where can I learn tai chi near me?

To find Tai Chi classes near you, try these methods:

Online Search

• Google: “Tai Chi classes near [your city/zip]”
• Check platforms like Meetup, Eventbrite, or Yelp for local groups.

Parks And Outdoor Groups

• Many cities have free or donation-based Tai Chi sessions in public parks especially in Chinatowns or Asian cultural centers.

Senior Centers

• Some hospitals and wellness centers offer Tai Chi for stress relief and balance improvement.

Online Tai Chi

• YouTube likeTai Chi for Beginners by Dr. Paul Lam

Would you like help your search based on your location? Let me know your city or region, and I can suggest specific places!

How to become a tai chi instructor?

​Becoming a Tai Chi instructor requires to practice, deep understanding of the art, and formal training.

• Strong Personal Practice
  • Begin practicing Tai Chi regularly for 3–5+ years to build forms, postures, and principles. Explore your major styles like Yang, Chen, Wu, or Sun to broaden your knowledge. Learn the Taoist principles, yin-yang theory, and qi concepts that over Tai Chi.
• Choose Qualified Teacher
  • Find a reputable instructor with lineage in a recognized Tai Chi style. Attend workshops or retreats to refine your skills and deepen your understanding.
• Deepen Your Knowledge
  • Study qigong and integrate it into your teaching. Learn anatomy, biomechanics, and how Tai Chi benefits health.
• Get Certified
  • Complete your teacher training program through a recognized Tai Chi school or organization (e.g., Tai Chi Union, ITCCA, or local associations). Certification often include:
    • Demonstrating advanced forms.
    • Understanding teaching methodologies.
    • Passing written/oral exams on theory.
    • Obtain CPR/first aid certification.
• Gain Teaching Experience
  • Start by assisting your teacher in classes.
  • Teach small groups (friends, community centers) to build confidence.
  • Volunteer at senior centers or wellness programs to work with diverse populations.
• Develop Your Teaching Style
  • Adapt lessons for different audiences (seniors, athletes, stress management). And learn to give clear corrections and modifications for injuries/limitations.