Michael Phillips

Michael Phillips (1944-2024) was an accomplished and influential instructor of authentic internal Yang-style Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan).

He was recognized for his skill in clearly explaining the workings of internal energy and integrating it into a teachable framework. This stemmed from Michael’s lifelong commitment to genuine Tai Chi Chuan training methods and the complex dynamics of chi.

Background

Growing up in New York City, Michael was captivated by martial arts and kung fu from a young age. In the early 1970s, he studied Tai Chi Chuan under Professor Cheng Man-ch'ing and continued with William C.C. Chen throughout that decade. After moving to Tucson, Arizona, in 1977, he began teaching Tai Chi and actively sought instructors for 'closed-door' training for the rest of his life.

Quotes

“Your success in Tai Chi is determined by how unreasonable you are willing to be.”

“Comprehension comes from doing.”

More to come

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