Tai Ji Quan Training Program

The Tai Ji Quan Training Program at Colorado Chinese Medicine University (CCMU) offers a structured, university-level approach to traditional Tai Chi education. Rooted in classical Chinese medicine theory and supported by modern instructional methods, our program provides students with systematic training in movement, breath regulation, internal energy cultivation, and holistic health development.

Overview of Tai Ji Quan

Tai Ji Quan is a classical Chinese movement art integrating body mechanics, breath control, mental focus, and internal energy circulation. At CCMU, Tai Chi education extends beyond physical exercise, emphasizing therapeutic movement, structural alignment, and long-term health cultivation rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Educational Philosophy & Training Approach

CCMU’s Tai Ji Quan training follows a root-oriented educational philosophy that emphasizes foundational movement patterns, energetic awareness, and gradual internal development. Instruction focuses on correct posture, movement coordination, breathing techniques, and mindful awareness, enabling students to build a stable and sustainable Tai Ji Quan practice.

Tai Ji Quan or sometimes translated “Supreme Ultimate Boxing” comes from Chinese philosophy and culture. Based on the principles of the I Jing and the philosophy of Lao Zi, Tai Ji is a system of rounded, fluid, balanced movements to be practiced daily for health, peace of mind, and even self- defense. The I Jing says: “Nature is always in motion. Man should strengthen himself without interruption.” Exercise leads to robust health, high spirits, and rational thinking. Tai Ji stresses slow respiration and balanced, relaxed postures and it certainly promotes deep breathing, digestion, the functioning of the internal organs and blood circulation.

• Free to Students once their curriculum requirement has been met

Public Tai Ji Courses

CCMU provides a limited number of slots in our Tai Ji classes to the wider public. These classes run from 2:30-4:30 PM on Thursdays and cost $15 per person. For more information, please call us at 303-329-6355 ext 21 during normal business hours or reach out to admissions@ccmu.edu.

Instructor: Drew Xillin, BS

Zhu Xilin, also known as Drew, was born in Beijing, China, and began studying Wu Style Tai Chi Martial Arts under Chinese Master Wang Pei-sheng before graduating from high school in 1982. He also studied Taiji Qigong and its therapeutic applications for restoring health and recovering from physical injuries. Drew later studied Ru-yi Taijiquan under Master Shi Ming, featuring on Bill Moyers’ PBS series “Healing and the Mind – The Mystery of Qi”. After graduation, Drew worked as a researcher at the Qigong Science and Research Center in Beijing, studying the physical effects of Qigong and Taiji traditional theory. Drew moved to the United States in 1995 and taught Taiji and Qigong classes in the Denver and Boulder area since 1996 between the Southwest Acupuncture College in Boulder and the Colorado Chinese Medicine University® for 17 years. Drew is currently practicing Chinese Taoist Healing, and has a hobby as a ballet performer participating in ballet shows with local ballet companies and academies since 2009.