The Dao is one of the most common weapon practiced by various school of Chinese martial arts. It dated back to China's Bronze Age when the Dao was made of bronze. However through time, it was later changed to a much stronger material such as iron and later steel. It is distinguished from the Sword in that the former has only one sharp edge and the blade broadens towards the tip and is slightly curved.

The Dao is a popular weapon as it is an effective cutting tool. It is easier to learn and take less time to master the basic techniques for actual application. It became a standard issue military weapon in the ancient imperial china

In Traditional Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan, the Dao form is based on the empty form with the same principles and concept of Tai Chi Chuan. Any weapons training in Tai Chi Chuan help to embody such weapons to be one with your body and also further extend Yi. The form is carried out at a much faster pace than the empty form with the same emphases on coordination of hand form, eye movement, body work, footsteps and skill.

Each posture needs to be executed with precision, intent and Chi power. Some of the basic Tai Chi Dao techniques include chop, split, cut, intercept, uppercut, downward cut, thrust, winding, blocking, withdrawing, sliding, slicing, and peeling. All the movements are lead by the waist.

The Dao form is the next progression after learning the Tai Chi Chuan Long form.

 

For a chance to learn the broadsword with Master John Ding, go to our events calendar for information on our special 4 day intensive course in the New Year.