Master Chen Peiju, a 12th-generation direct descendant of Chen-style Taijiquan and senior coach at the Wushu Sports Management Center of Henan Province, has been officially included in the list of National-Level Representative Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage! This recognition not only pays the highest tribute to her more than forty years of dedicated transmission but also marks a significant milestone in revitalizing Chen-style Taijiquan in the modern era.
A Family Legacy, A Life Mission
A 20th-generation descendant of the Chen family of Chenjiagou, Master Chen Peiju grew up immersed in the tradition of Taijiquan. At the age of five, she began training under the careful guidance of her father, Grandmaster Chen Lixian, deeply mastering the essence of the Small Frame (Xiaojia) of Chen-style Taijiquan. She later continued her studies at Beijing Sport University, becoming the first descendant of Chen-style Taijiquan to receive an advanced academic education in martial arts and sports sciences.
Guided by the philosophy of “preserving tradition while innovating,” Master Chen has faithfully preserved core Chen-style techniques, such as silk-reeling energy (chán sī jìn) and explosive force (tán dòu jìn), while developing a scientific and structured teaching system. One of her most influential contributions is the publication of “Illustrated and Annotated Chen-style Taijiquan”, which integrates traditional Taiji principles with contemporary life.
Spreading the Light of Taiji Around the World
Master Chen Peiju’s work extends beyond China; her efforts in promoting Taijiquan have reached over 30 countries across five continents, contributing to the internationalization of the art. Her students have won numerous medals in international competitions, and thanks to her dedication, Taijiquan has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
In China, she founded the Chen Xin Taiji Research Institute, where she has trained hundreds of students while also promoting Taijiquan in universities and communities through public classes and academic lectures. Her initiatives have introduced tens of thousands of people to the practice of Taiji.
Innovation: The Future of Taijiquan
In response to the challenges of modern times, Master Chen Peiju has explored new teaching methods, developing digital learning support systems, Taiji courses for children, and online platforms for free dissemination. She emphasizes that “love for martial arts is the soul of transmission,” advocating a balance between traditional practice and modern fitness to cultivate new generations of practitioners with solid technical and moral foundations.
“The techniques of Taiji have form, but their spirit is infinite.” Through her tireless work, Master Chen Peiju continues to illuminate the harmonious power of Taijiquan in contemporary society. This prestigious recognition not only rewards her dedication but also reflects the state’s commitment to preserving traditional Chinese culture.
