TAIJIQUAN (TAI-CHI) IN PHILADELPHIA
Philly Chen Taiji – Authentic Chen-Style Taijiquan in Philadelphia
Instructor: Ryan Craig
At Philly Chen Taiji, instructor Ryan Craig offers dedicated instruction in traditional Chen-style Taijiquan, emphasizing both its martial roots and its transformative health benefits. Located in South Philadelphia, the school welcomes students of all levels to explore the depth, precision, and internal power of this classical Chinese art.
Ryan Craig brings over 30 years of experience in martial arts, with a journey that began in Southeast Asian systems and evolved toward internal practice. He was certified to teach Taijiquan by the late Shifu Michael Rosario Graycar, a student of Ren Guang Yi. His training has continued under some of the world’s most respected Chen family masters, including Chen Xiaowang, Chen Xiaoxing, Chen Bing, Chen Ziqiang, Ren Guang Yi, and Greg Pinney.
Ryan is a formal disciple of Nabil Ranne, a 12th-generation successor of Chen-Style Taijiquan and a leading teacher in the Chen Yu lineage. Through this connection, Ryan is recognized as part of the 13th generation of the Chen family martial tradition. His instruction faithfully follows the principles and methods handed down through this distinguished Beijing lineage.
At Philly Chen Taiji, the focus is on building strong fundamentals—song (relaxation), structure, coordination, rhythm, and inner force (jin). Classes balance traditional forms with partner work and internal development (neigong), all taught with clarity, patience, and deep respect for the art.
Class Schedule
Group classes are held Sundays at 10:00 and 11:00 AM at:
1816 S 11th Street, Philadelphia
Private lessons are also available by appointment.
Whether you’re seeking physical vitality, internal balance, or martial skill, Philly Chen Taiji offers a sincere and structured path into the heart of Chen-Style Taijiquan.
TAIJIQUAN (TAI-CHI) IN PHILADELPHIA WEST
Chen-Style Taijiquan in Philadelphia, West - Caleb Arnold
Caleb Arnold brings over ten years of martial arts experience to their practice and teaching. They began their journey with aikido at Denver Aikikai, affiliated with Aikido World Headquarters through the California Aikido Association.
In 2016, Caleb began studying Chen-style Taijiquan under Ryan Craig and continues their dedicated training in the Chen Zhaokui / Chen Yu lineage, emphasizing precise structure and internal development. They also regularly attend annual workshops with Nabil Ranné to deepen their understanding and practice.
They currently teach a beginner-level Chen-style Taijiquan class on Thursday mornings at Everybody Moves in West Philadelphia—a welcoming movement space for all bodies and experience levels.
TAIJIQUAN (TAI-CHI) IN PHILADELPHIA WILLOW GROVE
Chen-Style Taijiquan in Willow Grove – Ben Wright
Ben Wright has been studying Taijiquan since 2015. He first trained in the Chen Xiaowang lineage for over four years under Aretha Knight and David Dixon, developing a strong foundation in the art.
In 2020, Ben began practicing the Chen Zhaokui / Chen Yu lineage under Ryan Craig, focusing on internal structure and detailed body mechanics. Over the years, he has attended workshops with many notable Chen-style teachers, including Chen Xiaoxing, Chen Ziqiang, Chen Bing, Ren Guang Yi, and Nabil Ranné.
Ben currently offers beginner-level Chen-style Taijiquan classes on Saturday mornings at Willow Grove Chen Taiji.
