While Chenstyle taijiquan may be practised for it’s health benefits, it’s training curriculum is geared toward the eventual goal of martial proficiency. Ones’ goals- be they health or self defense- will dictate the intensity of one’s training.

To train for skill in combat requires diligence, perseverance, and intensity. It requires the student to, in the Chinese phrase, “eat bitterness”. It is necessary that the student train under a qualified instructor well versed in the methods.

The amount of time required will vary from student to student, depending on factors such as natural skill, learning ability, amount of time allotted to training, and the willingness of the teacher to impart instruction. If all these requirements are met, it is generally acknowledged that martial skill can be achieved in ten years or so.