Introduction

In the internal martial art of Tai-Ji Quan, there are two types of forms that can be distinguished:  The “Larger frame form“ and the “Small frame form“. Compact movements and circles characterize the “Small frame form”. Master Yang Xiao Hou who was one of the main inheritor’s of the Yang style Tai-Ji Quan, was proficient in the “Small frame form”. He passed down is extensive knowledge of this form to just a few of his students. Among them are Master Wu Kung Yi and Master Wu Tu Nan, who was the 3rd generation inheritor of the Wu style Tai Ji Quan.

In 1959, Master Wong Hong Wing was officially accepted by Master Wu Kung Yi as one of his selected elite students. Thereafter, Master Wu personally and uniquely taught Master Wong about the essence of the Small frame. In 1961, the “Hong Kong Chien Chuan Tai Chi Chuan Academy.”, headquarters of the Wu Style, was established and open to accept students. Since then, Master Wong has practiced and studied the Small frame form intensively. Amongst all of his peer students, Master Wong was recognized as the chosen heir of the Small frame form from Master Wu.

Each movement of the Small frame form contains extensive details and is quite difficult for the beginner student. Master Wong is believed to be among the very few in Hong Kong who has acquired the fundamental essence of the small frame form. Master Wong has obtained even deeper insight of this form with regard to the benefits to the body joints, ligaments, tendons, and manipulation of internal energy – Qi.

In practical terms, the Small frame form of the Wu Style emphasizes “Central Equilibrium”. Each movement in the form exquisitely combines aspects of cultivation of health, and building the foundation for practical self-defense. The Small frame form is also known as the “Applied form”. During the practice of the form , the movements must be agile, yet at ease, coherent, fluid, and consecutive. Mind intention is used to direct the flow of “Qi” through the body. The student may not fully appreciate the essence of the “Applied Form” without very close and personal guidance by an experienced and highly skilled instructor.