When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA
Why Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA, located in the vibrant Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles, stands out as the premier destination for learning authentic Chen Family Taijiquan—the mother form of Tai Chi. Guided by Master Chen Bing, a 20th-generation descendant of the Chen Wenating lineage, and Master Bosco Baek, an officially recognized Intangible Culture Successor, the academy commits itself to preserving and promoting the classical teachings originating from Chen Village in China. This rich heritage uniquely positions the academy to offer students a genuine martial arts experience that embodies the full depth and dynamic balance of Taijiquan — a synthesis of softness and hardness, slow and fast movements, teaching practitioners how to harmonize these opposing forces. The academy's official certification by both Master Chen Bing and the Chen Village Martial Arts Association, along with its designation as the "Birthplace of Tai Chi Promotion Center" in the USA by Jiaozuo City, affirms its authenticity and authority. Beyond technical training, the academy fosters a welcoming community where enthusiasts and professional instructors come together, sharing a mission to make life healthier, happier, and fearless. Its integration as a subsidiary of the nonprofit Chen Village Tai Chi organization further strengthens its impact in preserving this profound art for future generations, making it an ideal meeting point for friends and practitioners at all levels.
Here's what people think of Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA
As of recent, Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA holds a 5-star rating based on 19 reviews.
Reviews of Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA consistently reflect its outstanding reputation, as evidenced by a perfect 5.0 rating from 19 reviewers. Visitors and students alike applaud the academy for its authentic approach, emphasizing traditional Chen Family Taijiquan techniques rather than simplified or diluted versions of Tai Chi. Positive feedback highlights the high caliber of instruction provided by Master Chen Bing and Master Bosco Baek, whose deep lineage and expertise ensure students receive genuine and comprehensive training. Many reviewers appreciate the supportive and inclusive atmosphere, where both beginners and advanced practitioners feel encouraged to deepen their understanding and skill. The academy's unique blend of martial arts discipline and holistic wellness resonates with students seeking both physical fitness and mental harmony. On the other hand, some less frequent critiques mention challenges with class scheduling or locating the facility, given its urban Los Angeles setting, but these logistical concerns do not detract significantly from the overall highly positive experience. The dedication to preserving the full, dynamic essence of Chen Taijiquan remains a defining strength noted across reviews. In summary, the robust praise underscores Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA as an exceptional venue not only for learning Tai Chi authentically but also for meeting like-minded individuals committed to this timeless art.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Melody Hsieh
I started learning Yang’s style Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan) back in September, 2012. Our instructor always mentioned the Eight Principles of Postures of Tai Chi, but never explained the meaning of it. I asked other experienced practitioners and was unable to get the answers. You always heard people talking about that you need to relax when you play Taijiquan, but how? Also, my husband frequently injured his back every month over the years. Although he went to physical therapy and chiropractor for treatment, he only got temporary relief and he did not do his back exercise regularly to strengthen his back. I needed to find a place to help his back problems, I found Chen Bing Taiji Academy via internet. We’ve both started the school since April, 2016. The first thing we learned was to RELAX in standing position. We both knew this was the place for us, we felt our stress reduced, our upper body and neck with less tension, our legs sore, but our mind felt so calm and relaxed after taking the first class. This relaxation exercises increase the flexibility, strengthen the core and leg muscles, reduce stress, and improve mental focus. Now my husband’s back problem has minimized attributing to his persistently practicing Chen’s style relaxation and taijiquan. I also understand that relaxation is very essential for performing any type of activities besides practicing taijiquan. Through practicing Chen style Relaxation, both mind and body are greatly improved. I’m so glad to find the genuine Chen style Taiji in LA which benefit both physical and mental health.
Richard Storrs
Studying at Chen Bing Taiji Academy has been an extraordinary experience for me. After spending a little over half a year training in just the primary curriculum, I can safely say this school is a treasure that I will not be leaving any time soon. Learning Chen tai chi has been a completely transformative experience for both body and spirit. Laoshi Bosco and his disciples are fantastic teachers with great hands-on instruction and depth of knowledge. Other tai chi experience is welcome but not necessary, as the primary classes are all about building a strong, relaxed foundation so you can properly practice the recognizable Forms with fuller understanding. Chen-style tai chi is the oldest form of tai chi, and it is the wellspring from which all other known styles were born. It's history as a martial art means that it is not necessarily the slow, soft, easy tai chi which you may have observed or studied in the past. Chen-style combines hard and soft, fast and slow, and is a very diverse and interesting study that can be quite demanding. Expect to work muscles that you didn't know you had! Head teacher Bosco Baek studied in Chenjiagou, the city where Chen-style tai chi was born, and it is difficult to find a better credentialed and knowledgeable instructor. His mastery as teacher and student of tai chi is very apparent, and I strongly recommend watching videos of him and his own teacher Chen Bing to get a taste of the kind of expertise you can look forward to in class. Despite that it is quite challenging, this school has members of all ages and backgrounds who are dedicated and studious, and I hope no one is deterred by its difficulty. This is truly an art form and it takes patience to fully grasp its principles in action. After my first class, I had sweat more than I ever had in any 90 minute period of my life, but after months of study I have a better understanding of my body and more strength than ever before. Strongly, strongly recommended!
Andi Sie
Master Bosco is trully making Taiji (Taichi) internal again! I have been in a variety of martial arts for over 33 years. 13 years ago, upon discovering what real Taiji felt like, I decided to focus my training in it. Since then, I have became aTaiji brother with Master Bosco under the tutelege of our Shifu Chen Bing, founder and head of Chen Bing Taiji Academy (located in Chen Village, China). As the Academy's formal branch in America, I found that Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA, under the leadership of Master Bosco, has brought the most significant element of learning Taiji; internal. In short, I highly recommend this school for anyone with a clear intention who truly wants to benefit from learning the essence of Taiji.
King Leung
This academy is where you can learn and gain mastery over authentic Taijiquan through learning from its roots. Master Bosco is a Chenjiagou Intangible Culture Chen Family Taijiquan Excellent Successor, the highest honor awarded by Chenjiagou, the birthplace of Taijiquan. Best of all, Master Bosco cares much about making a positive impact on people’s lives and even founded Taichi for Cancer - a non profit to help people improve their well being by learning life transforming methods. Whether you are looking to train as a martial artist or to simply better your health, I would highly recommend going to Chen Bing Taiji academy to meet Master Bosco to see for yourself.
Stefanos Kafatos
“Tonight we will practice the real Tai Chi. Your legs will hurt.” This school is a real gem. I have studied martial arts all my life, and have looked at over 40 schools in the LA area over the last 20 years. I walked into this school with no intention of signing up for regular classes, and after one class, I knew I had found something special. Here is why. Chen style Taiji (Tai Chi) is the original family style of Taiji, with certain qualities that separate it from other styles. These include Silk Reeling (full-body coordination through spiraling movements), Fajin (fast explosive release of energy) as well as 25 internal principles that make up the difference between just moving slowly and cultivating energy through Taiji. Basically, this style is all about balance between cultivating health and learning to protect oneself. The teacher, Bosco Baek, has studied and been teaching Taiji with his teacher, and namesake of the school, for around two decades. He teaches individually in a group setting, so each student learns at his/her own pace. His corrections make all the difference. Under his guidance and tutelage, you learn how to discern for yourself if you are doing a posture, movement or form correctly. There is no mysticism, no teacher worship, just consistent high-quality instruction. I am not the type of person to idolize a teacher or look past faults. This man is simply dedicated to achieving and teaching the highest level of his art. He learned Mandarin so that he could better understand his teacher when learning. He has written a book for anyone interested in learning about the 25 internal principles of Chen Taiji. He developed a clear and concise curriculum that students follow in the progression of learning. Since studying at CBTA, I have gotten stronger, more flexible, have more stamina, and have seen many of my health issues minimize or dissipate completely. I have seen this in other students as well. There is no magic pill, it takes consistent practice, but this system is the best I have found for cultivating energy and reducing pain in the body. You will sweat. Your legs will hurt. There will be time that you will wonder why you are doing this to yourself. And then you will walk out feeling stronger, younger and more refreshed. And after some time, the pain dissipates, and what remains is an elastic and energized strength. It’s hard to describe in words, Some nice perks of the school are: 1. Weekly lectures and practice that delve more deeply into specific topics 2. There are regular visits from China by Chen Bing and other practitioners/teachers for workshops 3. Bosco has studied classical Yoga in northern India and works that into the curriculum to help increase flexibility. Even though this school is on the other side of LA from me, and the cost is not cheap, I find it worth both the commute and the money. I am extraordinarily cheap (according to my girlfriend, who knows me best) but there are certain things worth every penny. To me, CBTA is one of those things.
How to reach Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA
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Why Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA with your friends?
Choosing Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA as a meetup destination with your friends offers a unique blend of cultural enrichment, physical wellness, and shared learning that few places can match. Located in Los Feliz, Los Angeles, this acclaimed Taiji school carries a prestigious 5.0 rating from 19 reviews, reflecting its exceptional reputation and the deep impact it has on visitors and students alike. Rallying at this academy means immersing yourselves in the mother form of Tai Chi — Chen Family Taijiquan — the original style from which all other Tai Chi variations stem. It is not merely a place to practice slow movements; it emphasizes the complex interplay of hardness and softness, fastness and slowness, providing a profound journey into an ancient art that fosters discipline, balance, and mindfulness. Gathering here with friends offers a shared path of discovery and growth in an authentic setting led by Master Bosco Baek, an officially recognized successor of Chen Village’s intangible cultural heritage. This makes it a culturally rich environment that encourages connection, conversation, and collective wellness, perfect for groups looking to bond through healthful activity while exploring Chinese martial arts tradition and philosophy.
What activities can you enjoy at Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA?
Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA offers a diverse range of activities tailored to both beginners and experienced practitioners eager to deepen their understanding of classical Chen Family Taijiquan. The academy’s core offering is the instruction and practice of the mother form of Tai Chi, which involves mastering sequences that blend soft flowing movements with sudden power and agility. Under the guidance of Master Bosco Baek and skilled instructors, participants engage in traditional Tai Chi forms that emphasize body coordination, breath control, and energy flow. Classes cover the full spectrum of Chen Taiji techniques—from the gentle, slow postures to explosive, fast strikes and jumps, reflecting the authentic essence often lost in modern interpretations. The academy also organizes special international seminars and workshops, providing opportunities for intensive training and cultural exchange that bring together practitioners from around the world.
Aside from standard classes, group meetups can enjoy partner drills, push-hands exercises, and weapon training (such as sword and spear forms), which foster camaraderie and teamwork. The environment supports not only physical conditioning but also mental focus and spiritual growth, making it ideal for group gatherings centered on health and cultural immersion. The academy’s teaching philosophy encourages experiential learning, allowing friends and family to share in a collective development process that sharpens both body and mind, turning casual meetups into memorable, transformative experiences.
Why is Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA perfect for a group meetup?
Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA creates the ideal atmosphere for group meetings due to its cultural authenticity, expert instruction, and inclusive community spirit. Unlike typical gyms or fitness centers, it offers a unique experience that combines martial arts tradition with accessible teaching methods suited for groups with varied skill levels. A meetup here is more than exercise—it is an educational journey that encourages dialogue and shared practice. Participants can learn and practice together, witnessing each other’s progress while building mutual respect and deeper friendships through the collective discipline of Taijiquan.
The venue itself enhances the experience: located in the vibrant Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles, it is easily accessible yet somewhat serene, providing a peaceful environment for group focus and relaxation. The academy is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere where newcomers and seasoned martial artists feel equally valued. Additionally, the presence of Master Bosco Baek, the sole North American recipient of the Chen Village Intangible Culture title, ensures top-tier instruction that guarantees authenticity. Such credentials attract a diverse and passionate community, so your group will be welcomed into a broader international network of Tai Chi enthusiasts, further enriching the meetup experience.
Can you combine cultural discovery with physical activity at this academy?
Absolutely. Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA is not just a place for physical training; it is a cultural hub that passionately transmits the heritage of Chen Family Taijiquan from its birthplace, Chen Village in China. This makes every movement and lesson a connection to centuries of tradition. The academy educates visitors on the history and philosophy behind Tai Chi, illustrating that it is a martial art deeply woven into Chinese culture and thought—emphasizing harmony, balance, and energetic flow. This cultural backdrop adds a compelling layer to your group activities, transforming physical exercise into a meaningful exploration of ancient cultural wisdom.
Visitors often remark on how this deepened their appreciation of Tai Chi beyond its health benefits, inspiring ongoing personal and group practice. As a meetup venue, it invites participants not only to move but also to learn, reflect, and bond over a shared cultural and physical journey. Your friends and family can experience firsthand the integrity and complexity of traditional Chen Taijiquan, appreciating the thoughtful transitions between softness and hardness, and the artistic beauty of the forms taught by the academy.
How does the academy’s teaching style support beginners and veterans alike?
Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA is carefully structured to accommodate a wide spectrum of students, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. Unlike many Tai Chi schools that focus excessively on slow, surface-level movements, this academy delves into the full essence of Chen-style Taijiquan, incorporating both gentle and more vigorous elements. This approach ensures that new learners gain a solid foundation without losing sight of the art’s authentic depth, while experienced students continue growing through advanced techniques and applications.
The personalized attention given by Master Bosco Baek and other instructors creates a supportive learning environment where individuals progress at their own pace but also benefit from challenging drills and intensive seminars. For groups, this means your friends and family can participate regardless of previous experience and still find meaningful engagement. Beginners appreciate the clear explanations and paced progression, while seasoned students value the nuanced instruction and opportunities for skill refinement. This inclusive yet rigorous approach empowers each participant to develop confidence, physical capability, and an understanding of Tai Chi’s deeper martial and health aspects, making gatherings dynamic and rewarding.
What role does the community environment play in the academy experience?
Community is central to the Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA’s atmosphere and success. The academy hosts an international community of Tai Chi students, drawing visitors not only from across the United States but also globally, including many from China. This vibrant community creates a welcoming and energized environment, full of cultural exchange and friendship-building opportunities. Group visits can benefit greatly from this dynamic, as they connect with a network of practitioners who share passion, respect, and a commitment to preserving this ancient art.
Social interactions occur naturally before and after classes through shared experiences and discussions, often leading to lasting friendships. The academy encourages mutual support and the celebration of progress, fostering a sense of belonging and shared achievement. This social fabric enhances group meetups by offering participants a richer experience—beyond the physical practice—creating a memorable social and cultural event that participants will cherish. It also opens doors for continued engagement, group practice, and participation in special events and seminars, keeping the Tai Chi journey alive and communal well after the initial meetup.
What amenities or features make the location convenient for group gatherings?
Situated in the lively Los Feliz area, Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA benefits from an accessible and attractive location that enhances convenience for group visits. The area offers ample parking and public transit options, making it easy for groups to coordinate travel and arrive together without hassle. The neighborhood itself is vibrant, with a variety of cafés and eateries nearby, so groups can extend their meetup beyond classes to enjoy meals or refreshments together, fostering social connection in a casual setting.
The academy’s facilities are designed to accommodate multiple students comfortably, with ample space for group classes and partner drills. The layout supports an intimate yet open learning atmosphere, allowing groups to interact and study collectively. Additionally, the academy organizes seminars and special events that are perfect for group participation, adding variety and cultural depth to your gathering. These logistical and practical advantages ensure the meetup runs smoothly and enjoyably, from training to relaxation, making it an excellent venue for socially rich, active, and culturally meaningful get-togethers.
Why trust Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA for your group’s Tai Chi experience?
Trust in Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA is grounded in its authentic lineage, expert leadership, and stellar reputation. Master Bosco Baek’s official recognition as the “Chen Village Intangible Culture Chen Family Taijiquan Excellent Successor” is a unique distinction, affirming the academy’s direct link to Tai Chi’s historical origins. This credibility guarantees that your group will learn the art as it was meant to be practiced—rich in technique, philosophy, and cultural significance.
The academy’s consistent 5.0 rating from numerous reviews reflects widespread satisfaction and transformative experiences among students and visitors. These testimonials speak to the high-quality instruction, supportive environment, and positive personal impact the academy offers. For a group meetup, this means you can enter the experience confident that you and your friends or family will receive professional, authentic guidance and a memorable time steeped in tradition and wellness. This prestigious standing and proven excellence combine to make Chen Bing Taiji Academy USA a trustworthy and inspiring venue for any group interested in Tai Chi and Chinese culture.