The 34 Step Square (Short) Hand Form.

The use of Tai Chi Chuan as a prophylactic practice to 'promote the art for its health benefits began in the early 20th century. Its current global following may be attributed to the perception of it being of overall benefit to personal health.
As tai chi began to be practised by large numbers of the public, traditional teaching methods evolved to deal with large numbers. Often a Teacher or senior students would stand upon a platform, whilst others, would circulate amongst the audience, making corrections. This led to the gradual development of the 'Square form' where the emphasis is upon individual control of the 'four quarters'  or the hips and shoulders. The 'square for,m' teaches you to control and coordinate the action of the 'four quarters' or portions in ever more complicated combinations.

As a learning tool, 'square form' is very good at organising learning into progressive steps, teaching structural integrity, and provideing an international tool to examine and diset the complicated movements of Wudang TCC. It is also an excellent form of qigong, and mindfullness training, especially as it teaches you to take each move step by step, rather than rush forward.