Taiji College ITKA

An Advanced Training Program in Taijiquan

Since January 2012, ITKA has organized selection sessions in various cities across Italy, Europe, and the United States for practitioners who wish to apply for the ITKA Taiji College.
The project was created with a specific goal: to establish a high-level study group dedicated to the practice of Taijiquan, offering selected students the opportunity to undertake an intensive, structured, and continuous training program within the school.
The ITKA Taiji College is not an ordinary course. It is a training path designed for those who wish to deepen their practice seriously, develop their skills through a methodical approach, and undertake a long-term technical, physical, and personal journey.

Who it is for

The ITKA Taiji College is aimed at motivated practitioners who wish to dedicate time, energy, and commitment to the continuous study of Taijiquan.
The selection process is designed to assess candidates’ potential for practice, their physical and mental characteristics, and their suitability for undertaking the entire course of study while maintaining a high level of performance.
To be admitted to the College, applicants must be medically fit to practice sports activities and, for students coming from abroad, must meet the legal requirements necessary to reside in Italy.
ITKA, together with sports promotion organizations and local institutions, may also provide scholarships for deserving students.

How it works

Selected students are admitted to the ITKA Taiji College and may reside and study at the school according to one of the available programs.
The training path is tailored to each student’s level of preparation, previous experience, and educational goals.
During their time at the school, students train under the guidance of Technical Director M. Gianfranco Pace, assisted by the ITKA Technical Committee members.
Lessons involve intensive and continuous technical training, with structured programs designed to support each student in developing the skills required for the practice and, where applicable, for future qualification as an instructor.

Stay options

90 days per year for 5 years

This program involves a minimum stay at the school of 90 days per year, over a total period of 5 years.

Students attend classes at the ITKA Headquarters under the guidance of Technical Director M. Gianfranco Pace, with the support of Technical Committee members M. Giovambattista Scavo and M. Margherita Padalino.
The periods spent at the school can be organized throughout the year in blocks ranging from 8 to 30 days, until the required minimum number of days is reached.
During the rest of the year, students continue their practice at their place of residence, independently or with the support of ITKA schools, working on the programs studied during their time at the school.
An assessment is held each year in order to progress to the following academic year.
Daily lessons last approximately 6–7 hours. Technical programs are tailored to each student’s level of preparation and previous experience.
At the end of the 5-year program, students who pass the final examinations obtain a teaching qualification. Depending on the level of preparation achieved, the qualification may be Second- or Third-Level Coach, or First- or Second-Level Instructor.
The qualifications are recognized by ITKA and CSEN–CONI and have European and international recognition.

45 days per year for 6/7 years

This program follows the same educational approach as Formula A, but is designed for those who, for work or personal reasons, cannot guarantee an annual stay of 90 days.
The program nevertheless allows students to follow a structured, professional training path with a high technical level.
Students attend the school for at least 45 days per year, organized into periods of 8 to 15 days at a time.
During the rest of the year, students continue their practice at their place of residence, independently or with the support of ITKA schools, carrying on the technical work assigned during their periods of study at the school.
In this case as well, an annual assessment is required in order to progress to the following academic year.
Daily lessons last approximately 6–7 hours. Programs are individually tailored, taking into account each student’s level of preparation and previous experience.
At the end of the 7-year program, students who pass the final examinations obtain a teaching qualification. Depending on the level of preparation achieved, the qualification may be Second- or Third-Level Coach, or First- or Second-Level Instructor.
The qualifications are recognized by ITKA and CSEN – CONI and have European and international recognition.

Annual stay at the school for 3 or 5 years

The third program involves staying at the school continuously throughout the year, with a study program that can last 3 or 5 years.
The complete course lasts 5 years and involves studying the orthodox program of the Chen style of Taijiquan.
This program is designed for those who wish to experience an immersive educational journey, with daily practice and an ongoing relationship with the school.
Daily lessons last approximately 4 hours. Technical programs are structured according to the number of years chosen for the training and the student’s level. Minor students or resident university students are also supported in their daily needs related to staying at the school, such as studying, meals, and logistical arrangements.
When necessary, the school provides support in organizing the student’s academic or university education at nearby institutions, or in participating in certified courses organized within the school.
The schedule includes a 20-day summer break from activities. Students may also have one free weekend per month and, upon request, arrange two longer periods per year to spend with their families.

A technical but also human journey

Joining the ITKA Taiji College means choosing a path that requires presence, discipline, and consistency.
Daily practice is not only about learning forms or technical programs, but also about developing a study method, greater awareness of the body, and a deeper relationship with the art of Taijiquan.
Each student is guided according to their level, but the path requires genuine commitment: the initial selection process is specifically designed to determine whether the candidate has the physical, mental, and personal qualities needed to undertake this type of training.