The book sets out to show the self defense applications of every posture in the Yang style long form. The author could hardly have higher credentials -- Yang Sau Chung was the eldest son of Yang Cheng Fu and began his training in Tai Chi at the age of eight. In 1949 he moved to Hong Kong. Upon his father's death he became heir to the Yang family tradition.

The book makes use of photographs of both father and son. In the first instance we have a picture of Yang Cheng Fu demonstrating an application of the movement with his student Chen Wei Ming. The surrounding text explains clearly how the posture is being used. In the event of the opponent anticipating your actions, a second photograph, of Yang Sau Chung, shows a possible follow up to the initial move. In some cases an alternate application of the posture is shown. Again the text clearly explains what is happening. Each of the major postures is covered in some 80 - 90 photographs. While the photographs of Yang Cheng Fu are rather old, having been taken in the 1930s, they have reproduced well, giving this book historical as well as instructional value.

Also explained in the last section of the book, are the applications of Ta Lu, or four corners, again clearly explained in text and photograph.

The self defense use of Tai Chi postures are not always obvious, and books such as this can help students considerably in their training. Even so, only so much can be shown at one time, and as the author states in the introduction for simplicity's sake only one or two possible applications are shown. However, armed with these the student should have no trouble working out other variations.

This really is an essential book for any Yang style practitioner and will certainly benefit students of all styles. It is a rare opportunity to gain some insight into the art from a leading figure and renowned Tai Chi authority.