Shifu Liu periodically offers formal or informal assessment where students have the opportunity to determine their level of practice and the classes they should be attending. If any student is not sure of their level of practice they are welcome to inquire with Shifu Liu directly.

Examinations can be conducted on-site at one of our London venues or remotely via video call. Assessments are included for Gold members at no extra charge.

What an assessment involves

Assessment days traditionally open with instruction and demonstration from Shifu Liu on the principles being examined: the yin-and-yang attributes of Chen Style Taijiquan — fast and slow, soft and strong, and its characteristic circular, twining movements — keeping the head and body straight with the joints open and relaxed, and using the feet to push the floor so that energy is led up through the dantian and out to the fingertips. Students then demonstrate in turn, and it is progress rather than polish that earns recognition — foundation students are especially encouraged to take part.

Practice Levels

Classes and workshops are labelled according to three designated levels of practice. Classes are organised across three terms of approximately 12 weeks each (January to Easter, May to Summer, September to Christmas).

Progression Pathways