Sun Lu Tang is a name that is synonymous with Chinese martial arts. Born in 1860 in Hebei province, Sun Lu Tang went on to become one of the most influential martial artists of the early 20th century. He is credited with creating the internal martial art style of Sun Style Tai Chi, as well as being a prolific writer on the subject of martial arts.
Sun Lu Tang's early life was marked by tragedy. He was orphaned at a young age and had to work to support himself. However, despite these early setbacks, he had an innate talent for martial arts. He began his training in the Shaolin Kung Fu at a young age and quickly became known for his skill.
However, Sun Lu Tang did not stop there. He continued to study different styles of martial arts throughout his life, including the internal martial arts of Xing Yi Quan and Bagua Zhang. After becoming proficient in Xing & Bagua he then went on to learn Wu-Hao style Tai Chi from Hao Wei Zhen.
Sun Lu Tang combined the principles of Xingyi, Bagua and Wu-Hao Taiji, thus creating his own unique style of Tai Chi. Sun Style Tai Chi is known for its emphasis on fluidity and relaxation. Unlike many other martial arts, which rely on brute strength and force, Sun Style Tai Chi emphasizes the use of internal energy, or Qi.
Sun Lu Tang was not content to simply create a new style of tai chi, however. He was also a prolific writer on the subject, authoring several books on the principles and techniques of Tai Chi. His most famous book, "The Study of Tai Chi Chuan," is still considered a seminal work on the subject.
Sun Lu Tang's legacy is still felt today, both in the world of martial arts and beyond. His contributions to the development of Tai Chi have helped to make it one of the most popular forms of exercise in the world. In addition, his emphasis on the spiritual aspects of martial arts has inspired countless practitioners to seek a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Rising Dragon School president Scott Bird has a very good relationship with the Sun style martial arts association in China, he is a 4th generation disciple under Master Huo Pei Lin who was the student of Sun Lu Tang's daughter, Sun Jian Yun. Every year Scott attends many sun style martial arts events in China meeting and greeting all of the top sun style masters and practitioners.
Sun Lu Tang was a true visionary in the world of martial arts. His creation of Sun Style Tai Chi, his prolific writing on the subject, and his emphasis on the spiritual aspects of martial arts have all had a profound impact on the world of martial arts. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence martial artists for generations to come.
You can learn Sun Style Taiji, Xingyi and Bagua at RDS under Scott Bird or Master Deng Fu Ming who has practiced Sun Style martial arts for nearly 50 years.