Curious What is the difference between Baduanjin and Taijiquan, and which one should I practice?

Mondo Health Updated on 2024-01-31

I have been practicing Tai Chi for more than 40 years and Baduanjin for more than 20 years. I'll talk about the difference between the two.

Baduanjin and Tai Chi are both traditional fitness methods that originated from ancient times, and Baduanjin has a longer history. They share similarities, such as an emphasis on internal and external coordination, the combination of movement and static, and the use of practice to achieve physical and mental health. But there are some distinct differences:

Origin: Baduanjin is an ancient qigong practice that originated during the Northern and Southern Dynasties.

form: It is mainly a set of qigong sequences consisting of eight movements, each of which is repeated six times. Later, after the modification and integration of the General Administration of Sports of the People's Republic of China, the preparatory and closing styles were added, and there are currently a total of 10 movements in Baduanjin.

Purpose: It focuses on regulating breathing, promoting qi and blood circulation, and relaxing the body and mind to achieve the effect of health preservation.

Practice mode: The movements of Baduanjin are relatively simple, with more emphasis on breathing and mind guidance, and are suitable for people of all ages to practice.

I'm currently updating the Baduanjin column, and each movement explains how to breathe and guide thoughts. If you are interested, you can take a look, a total of 11 classes, the first four classes are nearly 1 hour, all of which are free.

Origin: Taijiquan originated in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, founded by Master Chen Wangting of Chenjiagou in Wenxian County, Henan Province, and is a kind of internal boxing.

form: It includes a series of complex gestures and footwork to form a complete routine, such as the first way of the old frame, the second way of the old frame, etc.

Purpose: Although it also focuses on physical and mental health, Tai Chi incorporates more martial arts elements, such as defensive skills and the cultivation of internal strength.

Practice mode: Tai Chi movements require more precision and fluidity, requiring longer practice and understanding. It is suitable for practitioners who pursue martial arts skills, physical coordination, and mental cultivation.

Overall, Baduanjin is seen more as an easy-to-learn qigong health practice, while Tai Chi is a comprehensive internal martial arts that combines fitness, wellness, and martial arts.

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