Martial arts, in its various forms, are a centuries-old blend of art, sport and culture that's closely linked to the Chinese identity. Its influence has spread across the world as both a sport and a lifestyle.
Northern China is synonymous with the Chen-style Taijiquan form of Tai Chi developed by Chen Wangting during the 16th century, which amplifies the smooth transition from slow to fast movements interlaced with explosive bursts of power.
Its enduring legacy has been the subject of much study and practice as practitioners seek to benefit from the underlying impact of its movements on health, discipline and endurance. This martial arts form stirs up inner power.
Recently, 23 foreign students began a 30-day training and exchange program facilitated by the Ministry of Commerce and implemented by Henan University of Technology.
The students traded their personal clothing for the customary black and white apparel of the arena where groups practice Taijiquan.
The 23 students were drawn from Tunisia, Turkey, Nepal and Mauritius, among other countries. The training program on the Chen-style Taijiquan will take the form of classes, lectures, seminars and exchanges.