WushupediA

I was wordering what is the best way to learn taichi movements and techniques: through traditional long forms (108 yang, Chen's Lao jia, 108 Chang Sang Feng ...) or newer and shorter forms (24 yang, 18 chen, 36 Wudang...).

On one hand, I like to learn from a traditional long form, because they collect most of the techniques and principles of their style, and also I like the taste of practicing a traditional form!

On the other hand, learning a shorter form is easier, and allows people to learn a complete form sooner, what motivates the practicer.

And you people, what do you prefer?

With no doubt I prefer traditional forms...If old masters made these long forms, it should be for some reason, don't you think?

For me the evolution of the styles has not to be a bad thing. Shorter forms were developed to improve the way to learn martial techniques, and they condensate the essence of a style.
Observing several long forms you can see that they contain a lot of repeated movements. That is avoided by new shorter forms.
With no doubt, new short forms are better!