Pascal Iadarola
A world-renowned teacher, author, and researcher, Sifu Sergio Pascal Iadarola is recognised as one of the most knowledgeable Taijiquan masters of his generation, with decades of study across multiple internal martial arts lineages.
The Path of
Taijiquan
From early childhood, Sifu Sergio Pascal Iadarola dedicated his life to the study of martial arts, moving beyond competition toward a deeper search for authentic knowledge. What began in Amsterdam became a disciplined pursuit of Taijiquan as a complete and living system.
His journey led him across Europe, Taiwan, China, Canada, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia, where he undertook private training in diverse Taijiquan lineages and rarely taught internal traditions. Through decades of direct transmission, practice, and research, Sifu Sergio has become one of the Western practitioners dedicated to preserving and transmitting the traditional arts of Yang and Wu Taijiquan.
A Lifetime of Mastery
Numbers tell only part of the story, but they reveal the magnitude of dedication required to achieve true mastery across multiple authentic lineages.
Historical Timeline
Follow the extraordinary journey across continents in search of authentic wisdom.
Foundations in Amsterdam
Began studying Large Frame Yang Taijiquan (Yang Cheng Fu lineage) under Sifu Alan Fong in Amsterdam. Mastered the complete set and several Yang Taiji two-person sets.
Deepening Research
Delved significantly deeper into studying multiple lineages of Yang Taijiquan, seeking the core principles across different traditions.
The Huang Shen Shyan System
Entered the Huang Shen Shyan system (Fujian White Crane + 37 Postures of Cheng Man Ching). Studied in Taiwan, Singapore, and New Zealand, including four years as a private indoor student.
The Tian Family Heritage
Conducted extensive research throughout mainland China. In Shanghai, he was accepted as a private student of Sifu Tian Bing Yuan, the grandson of Yang Taiji Grandmaster Tian Zhaolin.
First Westerner Certification
Received a certificate of completion for the entire Old Yang unarmed Taijiquan system (Large, Middle, 64 Small Frame, 88 San Shou, Da Lu, and full Tui Shou cycles) — the first time a Westerner received this certificate from the Tian family.
Internal Development
Accepted as a private student, focusing on Yi Quan standing meditation and an advanced approach to Yang Taijiquan centered on internal cultivation and refinement.
Transmission in Practice
The work continues through teaching, transmission and direct experience — guiding students toward profound transformation in Mind, Body and Energy. Furthermore the last years are full of intensive private instructions and authentic Wu Taijiquan training under the guidance of Sifu Zhou Zhongfu, which have shaped his journey, and this training continues to the present day.
Beyond The External
One of Sifu Sergio’s most significant achievements was mapping the mechanical force types used in 19th-century systems, as documented in rare manuscripts from 1890. He formulated the specialized Six Core Elements Program to help modern practitioners isolate and accelerate these complex pathways.
"Most people practice Taijiquan as empty forms. I fill the forms with life, bringing out the real internal engine that drives true martial cultivation."
Systematic Analysis
"My mind doesn't just learn isolated movements—it tracks entire historical systems, maps structural connections, and recognizes the hidden tactical patterns that link ancient lineages directly to modern physical application."
"Taijiquan is not just about fighting. It's about understanding yourself, your opponent, and the space between you. When you truly grasp the mechanical geometry, you understand balance, efficiency, and harmony."
Learn from a Sifu Sergio Pascal Iadarola
Now is your opportunity to study with one of the most knowledgeable Tai Chi masters alive today. Whether online or in person at our Madeira sanctuary, Sifu Sergio’s teachings will transform your practice.
Sifu Sergio Pascal Iadarola practising the 88 San Shou two-men form with GM Tian Bing Yuan in Shanghai, 2014.
Sifu Sergio Pascal Iadarola discussing the life of the late GM Cheng Man Ching with Sifu Yee Chun Hsu in Taiwan, 2015.
GM Sam Tam absorbing Sergio Pascal Iadarola 's punch with his Dan Tian, in Vancouver, 2016.
Sifu Sergio Pascal Iadarola with GM Wee Kee Jin at his house in Aukland New Zeland, 2014.
Sifu Sergio Pascal Iadarola receiving the certificate of the completion of the unarmed Yang Family system from the hands of GM Tian Bing Yuan in Shanghai, 2015.
Sometimes the deepest martial arts lessons happen outside the school. A casual café conversation between Sifu Sergio Pascal Iadarola and Grandmaster Sam Tam , sharing insights on internal martial arts in Vancouver, 2016.