H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association

- 25 Division St 3rd floor, New York, NY 10002

In the bustling heart of New York City, finding a place dedicated to calm, focus, and physical discipline can feel like a rare gem. Yet, for those seeking a profound and authentic martial arts experience, the H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association stands as a beacon. Located right here in the city, this institution offers a genuine path to learning traditional Yang style Tai Chi Chuan. It's more than just a series of movements; it's a deep-rooted practice that cultivates both internal strength and a sense of enduring wellness. For decades, students have walked through its doors, not just to learn a martial art, but to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal development, guided by a master with a deep understanding of the art's true essence. This is a place where patience and perseverance are rewarded with tangible results, making it an ideal choice for New Yorkers looking for a meaningful and long-lasting activity.

H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association is not your average gym or wellness studio. It's a sanctuary for those who understand that true strength comes from within. The training here is focused on the rare and highly sought-after concept of internal power. As one long-time student shared, this is the place to "develop the highly sought after internal power" that many modern Tai Chi schools overlook. The atmosphere is one of serious study and dedication, where students are guided through traditional forms and practices that have been passed down through generations. This is a place for those who are willing to put in the time and effort, knowing that the rewards—a continuously developing sense of internal strength and wellness—are well worth the commitment. The school’s reputation is built on the profound knowledge and dedication of its teacher, Sifu Gim, who is highly respected for his deep expertise and ability to manifest and teach internal power in a way that is truly transformative for his students.

The journey to mastering Tai Chi here is described as "long and arduous," but the consensus among students is that it is incredibly fulfilling. This is a testament to the quality of instruction and the authenticity of the practice. Unlike more high-impact martial arts, Tai Chi Chuan as taught here is a form that can be practiced for a lifetime, "well into the old age," and without the "blood and bruise of the most kungfu styles." It offers a path to physical and mental fitness that is gentle on the body yet profoundly powerful. This school offers a rare opportunity to learn from a true lineage holder—Sifu Gim is noted as a sixth-generation direct descendant of the Yang family, a fact that speaks volumes about the authenticity of the training. This is a crucial detail for anyone in New York seriously interested in the traditional martial arts, as such direct lineage is not common. The school’s focus on the traditional aspects of Tai Chi, including its martial applications and internal power, sets it apart from many of the more recreational or fitness-oriented classes found throughout the city. Students are not just going through the motions; they are truly learning a martial art with deep historical and philosophical roots.

The H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association is conveniently located in a bustling and accessible part of the city. You'll find it at 25 Division St, on the 3rd floor, in the heart of New York, NY 10002. This prime location in Chinatown makes it easily reachable for anyone living in or commuting to downtown Manhattan. Its proximity to major subway lines and bus routes ensures that getting to class is straightforward. For those who drive, public transportation is a stress-free alternative. The location is an integral part of the experience, offering a quiet and focused space away from the street-level chaos of the city. When you step into the school, you are entering a space dedicated to a timeless practice, providing a unique escape from the urban environment outside. The accessibility of the location makes it possible for students from various boroughs to come and train, contributing to a diverse and dedicated student community. The school's presence in Chinatown also adds to its authenticity, connecting it to a long tradition of martial arts training that has thrived in this neighborhood for generations. This geographical and cultural context further enriches the learning experience for all who attend.

The services and training offered at H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association are comprehensive and deeply traditional. This is not a place for a quick workout, but for a lifelong study. The curriculum is extensive, covering many facets of the Yang family tradition.

• Authentic Yang Style Tai Chi: Students learn the complete and traditional forms of Yang family Tai Chi, as passed down through a direct lineage. This includes the full hand forms, ensuring a thorough understanding of the art.
• Internal Power Training: The core focus of the school is the development of internal power, known as 'neigong'. The instruction is geared towards helping students cultivate this strength, which is the true essence of Tai Chi.
• Push Hands (Tui Shou): The school offers opportunities for students to train in 'push hands,' a two-person training routine that applies the principles of Tai Chi for self-defense and energy manipulation. One review specifically mentions the "rare opportunity of pushing hands with an amusing master/teacher."
• Traditional Weapon Forms: Students can learn the traditional Yang family weapon forms, including knife, spear, and sword. This expands the practice beyond empty-hand forms and offers a deeper understanding of the martial applications.
• Fast Form (Kua Quan): For advanced students, the school teaches the Yang family fast form, a dynamic and powerful routine that complements the slow, meditative forms.

The features and highlights of H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association set it apart from other martial arts schools in the city.

• Lineage and Master: The most significant highlight is the opportunity to learn from Sifu Gim, who is a sixth-generation direct descendant of the Yang family. His deep internal power and ability to teach it are described as "unbelievable to a passerby" and truly set the school apart.
• Authenticity: The training is rooted in tradition, focusing on the authentic forms and principles of Yang style Tai Chi. This is not a watered-down version but a serious and committed study of a traditional martial art.
• Focus on Internal Power: Unlike many schools that focus on the health or a form-only aspect, this school emphasizes the cultivation of internal power, which is the true source of strength and healing in Tai Chi.
• Long-Term Commitment: The school fosters an environment of long-term study, with students staying for many years. One student has studied for 16 years, a testament to the quality and depth of the training.
• Community: The school provides a community of like-minded individuals who are dedicated to the practice. This shared journey fosters a supportive and encouraging environment for all students.

For more information, you can visit H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association in person. The address is 25 Division St 3rd floor, New York, NY 10002, USA. Please note that the available public information does not include a phone number, and it is recommended to visit in person during class times to get a better sense of the school and its community. The best way to learn more is to "really come experience and feel the internal power!" as one student suggests. This personal connection is key to understanding the school’s unique philosophy and approach. The school itself features a restroom for the convenience of students, which is an important amenity for a place of extended physical training.

What is worth choosing this particular school is its unwavering commitment to authenticity and the depth of its teaching. While there may be countless places to learn Tai Chi in New York, very few offer the direct lineage, the focus on internal power, and the guidance of a master as knowledgeable as Sifu Gim. This is a school for those who are serious about the martial art, not just as a physical exercise, but as a path to lifelong wellness, self-discipline, and profound internal strength. The testimonials from students who have dedicated years—even decades—to their practice speak volumes. They highlight the feeling of continuous strength development and the sense of it being "well worth it." If you've previously studied Tai Chi but felt "something was missing," as one student described, this is the place to complete your understanding. The search for a truly authentic and meaningful Tai Chi practice ends here. The school offers a rare and valuable opportunity to connect with a timeless tradition, build authentic strength from within, and join a community that shares a deep respect for the art. For a New Yorker seeking to invest in their long-term health and personal development through an ancient and powerful discipline, the H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association is an exceptional and highly recommended choice.

H. Won Tai Chi Chuan Association

25 Division St 3rd floor, New York, NY 10002, USA