Although Qigong and Tai Chi (Taiji 太极 in Chinese) are both treasures of traditional Chinese culture, they have different origins, characteristics, and functions. What is the difference between Tai chi and Qigong?

Qigong vs Tai Chi

In brief, Qigong offers free-form breathing exercises while Tai Chi offers long consistent defined exercises. Practitioners use a Qigong routine to concentrate on one area. Opening up the lungs would be one example. Conversely, Tai Chi is more of a complete body/mind approach. Routines here exercise the entire body from head to toe.

Difference Between Qigong and Tai Chi in Detail

1. Variance in Focus: Qigong Develops Breathing While Tai Chi Is Martial Art With Mindfulness

An important difference between Qigong and Tai chi is the physicality of each.

Qigong it is a system that develops breathing (Qi 气) more than muscle or calorie burning. It is less physically demanding of enthusiasts than Tai Chi.

Tai Chi is essentially a martial art with mindfulness. With this exercise method (groups of 7 to 108 defined moves depending on the style), you’ll burn calories. It helps to develop balance, flexibility, and strength than Qigong. It is more physically challenging for practitioners than Qigong when comparing the two head-to-head.

2. Differences In Complexity: Qigong Is Easier Than Tai Chi

As someone new to Qigong and Tai Chi, one of the first differences you will notice is complexity. Beginners often feel that Tai Chi is more demanding when it comes to learning than Qigong.

Qigong exercises are often a single move repeated over and over during the routine. Having only one move that you repeat makes it easier to learn. A singular move can also allow some to detect the movement of Qi faster than when a Tai Chi routine.

A Tai Chi routine involves transitioning between several moves during the exercise. Depending on the style, you might need months to learn the entire routine all the way through. Having to focus on transitioning through moves might make it harder for some beginners to detect energy movement.

3. The Amount of Movement and Speed: Qigong Exercises Are less, Simple but Faster

Another difference between these forms of Eastern exercise is the volume of movement. You will do more of a particular move in Qigong, but Tai Chi routines consist of dozens of moves you transition into.

Qigong exercises are simple moves and poses performed one at a time. Each exercise is often repeated for a specific amount of time or number of moves. Qigong exercises are often slow-paced, but they vary more in speed than Tai Chi routines.

Tai Chi is a routine of specific moves and positions strung together in groups of 7 to 108 moves, depending on the style. The routine is usually done once. Tai Chi routines tend to be slow-paced throughout the entire exercise, maintaining an even tempo compared to some Qigong moves or postures.

4. How Adaptive They Are to Practitioners: Qigong Is Tailored to Individual Needs

Beginners will also notice a difference in the level of adaptability between the two. Here, novice practitioners might find Qigong more friendly to their body and mind.

Qigong practitioners can do moves and positions standing, sitting, lying down, or even by not moving at all! There is less reliance on form here as well, which makes it easier. That allows this exercise method to adapt more easily to those with limited balance, flexibility, and mobility.

Those practicing Tai Chi will notice its adherence to forms, with precise movements and transitions. Your body must move into certain positions, requiring more discipline than required within Qigong. Those with physical limitations may find some movements or positions challenging, if not impossible.

What Is Qigong? Qigong Meaning and Benefits

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Qigong is a system that uses various positions and movements along with breathing and meditation for health benefits. Practitioners use Qigong to enhance their well-being, martial arts training, and spirituality.

Eastern tradition holds that this method of exercise helps to balance and cultivate Qi, or vital energy. Gong can be translated as cultivation or work; giving Qigong the meaning of “cultivating or working vital energy.”

Benefits include improving aerobic and physical fitness, especially for those with limited mobility. Practitioners can see improvements in their immune system, reduction in chronic pain, and lower blood pressure. Some studies suggest it has benefits for those with anxiety or depression. Overall well-being can be improved in those with cancer as well.

What Is Tai Chi? Pros and Cons


Tai Chi is a truncated spelling of Tai Chi Chuan and is considered an internal martial art. Those who practice Tai Chi do it as a martial art and for health benefits. It consists of specific moves and bodily positions strung together in a routine.

Tai Chi is a versatile martial art that can be practiced in weapon forms.

One of the main benefits of this exercise method is that it is low-impact and uses slow motions that almost anyone can perform. Physical benefits can include improved balance, flexibility, and muscle toning.

Compared to Qigong, Tai Chi is at a disadvantage when it comes to adaptability. The Tai Chi method also requires more discipline as postures and movements are more exact.

Qigong vs Tai Chi: How Do You Make the Choice?

While both methods of exercise provide similar benefits, some differences might make one more favorable for you.

To start with, Qigong takes up less space than Tai Chi, the latter uses more space for connected movements. Another consideration is time, where a 107-step Tai Chi routine will take longer to perform than a Qigong breathing exercise.

It is worth noting that some people prefer defined exercises which Tai Chi offers more of than the free-form Qigong.

If you prefer consistent movement that requires more concentration, Tai Chi is a better fit. If you are looking for exercises that are easy to adapt to your health conditions, Qigong is geared more towards this.

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