A Taoist monk named Chang Sanfeng developed Tai Chi Chuan in the 14th century. He gained renown and was summoned to Court by the emperor, but chose to live out his years as a mountain recluse, cultivating his art and writing. “Let the honourable under heaven extend their years rather than focusing on mere skills alone.”

This mysterious art form remained a rumour, passed down in secret for over four hundred years until an enthusiastic martial artist named Yang Lu-Chan “Unbeatable Yang” became famous throughout central China and was also summoned to Court. After three days of tournaments, he was found worthy of his name.

Amongst three foremost students was a Mongolian Imperial guard named Wu Quan You (1834-1902). Wu’s son, Wu Jian Quan (1870-1942) trained diligently from youth. Wu Jian Quan rose through the ranks to become one of four military trainers of the imperial guard. After the fall of the dynasty, he was appointed military trainer of the first presidential body guard.