The 42 Cheng Sword Form is a relatively modern creation, developed in 1989 by Professors Men Hui Feng from the Beijing Sport Institute and Li De Yin from the People's University for the Chinese Sports Committee. It was designed to be a standardized form for Wushu competitions, combining movements from the Chen, Yang, Wu, and Sun styles of Tai Chi. The form was first showcased at the 11th Asian Games in 1990, where it was included as a competitive event for the first time. Despite some criticism for being a hybrid form, it has gained popularity for its fluidity and the way it integrates the concept of "Qi" (vital energy) into swordplay.

The 42 Cheng Sword Form provides both mental and physical benefits:

  1. Physical Fitness: Enhances flexibility, strength, and balance.

  2. Mental Clarity: The focus required for each movement fosters mindfulness and reduces stress.

  3. Energy Flow: Emphasizes the concept of "Qi", improving your overall energy levels.

  4. Coordination and Control: Combining fluid movements with sword handling sharpens motor skills and coordination.

  5. Cultural Appreciation: Offers a deeper understanding of Tai Chi and its historical and cultural significance.

 

Here's the detailed sequence of the 42 Cheng Sword Form movements:

  1. Preparatory Posture - Start in a relaxed stance, sword held in front.

  2. Sword-Pointing - Lift the sword to an upright position.

  3. Thrust Forward - A direct thrust.

  4. Cut Downwards - A vertical downward cut.

  5. Circle Upwards - A circular upward movement.

  6. Point to the Sky - Sword pointed upwards.

  7. Sweep to the Side - Horizontal sweep to the side.

  8. Draw the Bow - Extended stance with the sword drawn back.

  9. Parting Wild Horse's Mane - A lateral movement.

  10. Blocking Move - Defensive block.

  11. Piercing Thrust - A forward pierce.

  12. White Crane Spreads Wings - Lift and spread arms with the sword.

  13. Kick with Right Heel - Coordinated kick.

  14. Turn and Sweep - Turn and sweep the sword.

  15. Twin Peaks to the Ears - Dual movement towards the ears.

  16. Retreat Step - Step back with the sword.

  17. Stand on One Leg - Balance on one leg.

  18. Green Dragon Emerges from the Water - Diagonal swipe.

  19. Phoenix Spreads Wings - Overhead arc.

  20. White Snake Spits Poison - Thrust action.

  21. Fair Lady Works the Shuttles - A weaving movement.

  22. Dragonfly Touches the Water - Low sweep.

  23. Tiger Holds its Head - Defensive position.

  24. Swallow Skims Water - Swift horizontal cut.

  25. Turning Lotus Kick - Coordinated kick.

  26. Thrust in the Face - Forward thrust.

  27. Turn Body, Brush Knee - Turn and brush knee.

  28. Apparent Close Up - Finishing movement.