hi
can someone please explain what the difference is between chi gong and
tai chi
i'm looking for a slow but fluid movement based therapy
which will be more suitable for me
thanks
TBW
Hi TBW
There are many similarities between the two and some differences. The main fundamental difference is that Tai Chi (Taijiquan) is a martial art that is considered to be "internal", as in the use of Chi (Qi) energy. Chi Gong (Qigong) means "energy work" and is a generic term to describe any technique that cultivates Chi (Qi). This can include meditation & breathing exercises, movement and physical exercise, self-massage, and healing with the hands. It could be argued that Tai Chi is both a martial art and a form of Chi Gong.
In terms of movement and external forms, Tai Chi is a complex series of movements that can have martial applications. Chi Gong on the other hand has a tendency of using simpler movements done repetitively. More like Yoga standing up.
But there are exceptions to the rule. There are some Chi Gong forms that can be as complex as Tai Chi. Some tutors teach Chi Gong and call it Tai Chi, as Tai Chi is a more known name, a click-a-t-click word when Chi Gong isn't so well known.
And I must mention that it is very common for Tai Chi tutors teach Chi Gong as well in the same session, so you get the best of both worlds.
The best advice I can give you is don't be too concerned about what is being taught, better to find a tutor that you resonant with and enjoy the movement. In this field of activity, quality is more important than quanity!
Best wishes
RP
I agree with Reiki Pixie (great explanation BTW) - there are so many styles available you can easily get confused working out which to do. Better just to go to a few classes and see how they suit you. Many instructors will let you try a class for free first time...
Hi,
yes the responses seem to be on the right track. You can always try some lessons online too - to see the difference for yourself:
tai chi: [url]YouTube - Tai Chi Nation TV Programme: Guide to Tai Chi Part One[/url]
qigong: [url]YouTube - Tai Chi Nation's Guide To Qigong Part One[/url]
best wishes,
Matthew
[url]Tai Chi Nation®[/url]
thought it was time to update this thread as it seems Qigong (Chi Kung) is becoming more popular and recognised as more and more people are discovering its difference from Taijiquan.
As previously mentioned Taiji is a martial art, originally involved very hard training like all original Shaolin Kung Fu Systems. Later Qigong was introduced in to the training to help practitioners recover faster and build strength by using nourishing movements that had healing benefits.
This paring of hard and soft eventually became known as Taiji based on the principles of the Tai Chi - Yin Yang symbol.
Most Taiji today has lost its martial roots and the gentle qigong content has remained.
Taiji is first and foremost a martial art if taught properly, but due to its slow movement, and postures, it exercises the whole body, joints, muscles and mind.
When you have learned the forms the practice has therapeutic benefits, but in the early days it can be hard to 'let go' and this is where Qigong excells in teaching the student to relax and have an awareness of movement and personal energy.
In Taiji your intent is to cultivate energy in order to apply this for martial application and self defense.
In Qigong your intent is to cultivate energy for healing of the self and others.
If anyone is seeking to make a choice between the two i would ask the question of 'what are your needs?'
If you are interested in self defense, learning a martial art AND becoming healthy why you are training then Taijiquan is the one for you.
If you are seeking a means to stay mobile, healthy and improve your own personal health i would say Qigong will give you faster results and give you skills you can practice anywhere at any time.
The main downsides to Taiji are:
[LIST=1]
That is all i would say is wrong with Taiji.
The downsides to Qigong are:
[LIST=1]
You can see there are not many differences, only your reasons for training in the first place. I will add it is hard to find a pure Qigong teacher as most are Taiji teachers teaching Qigong under the label of Tai Chi which as RP mentioned easily recognised in th UK.
As RP said go to a few classes and see if the teacher is what you are looking for, some people just dont gel together.
VERY IMPORTANT ...Never believe anything you think or hear!
Always question what you are being taught. Never be afraid to teach your teacher...although not always in front of the class 🙂
I hope this has helped
INDO