Reviewed by Arisa Tanaphon, Certified Tai Chi Instructor, Mindful Movement Specialist
Many people use tai chi and qigong as if they mean the same thing. They are closely related, but they are not identical. According to the NCCIH qigong page, when tai chi is practiced for health, it can be considered a form of qigong. At the same time, qigong is broader: it includes many practices beyond tai chi.
Key takeaways
- Tai Chi links movements into forms and has martial roots. Qigong covers a wider range of movement, breathing, and attention practices; health-focused Tai Chi overlaps with it.
- Choose by the movements you want to learn. Repeating a simple arm pattern and learning a linked sequence place different demands on memory and coordination.
- Tai Chi for Seniors & Beginners contains 142 exercises and separate standing and chair tracks. Its library demonstrates Tai Chi-inspired app movements, not a comprehensive Qigong course.
- Compare Prayer Lift with Breath, a rising-and-lowering pattern, with Floating Cloud Hands, which adds torso turning and weight shifts.
What qigong is
The NCCIH qigong overview describes qigong as a Chinese mind-body practice involving regulation of mind, breath, and body movement or posture.
What tai chi is
The NCCIH tai chi page describes tai chi as a practice involving slow gentle movements, physical postures, controlled breathing, and a meditative state of mind.
The simplest difference
- Qigong: broader category, often simpler, often more repetitive.
- Tai chi: a specific system or family of practices, often more sequence-based and form-driven.
What the research says about health benefits
Research often groups tai chi and qigong together because their mechanisms overlap. The classic comprehensive review by Jahnke et al. argued that many practices labeled qigong or tai chi share similar theoretical roots, expected benefits, and mechanisms.
Which is better for beginners?
- Choose qigong if you want something easier to start, easier to repeat, and less sequence-heavy.
- Choose tai chi if you like learning forms, progression, and a clearer sense of skill development.
Which is better for older adults?
There is no universal answer, but adaptation matters more than labels. Because both practices can be modified for sitting, standing, and gentle mobility work, either can work for older adults when the instruction is appropriate.
Explore the movements in our app
Names alone can blur the distinction between a style, a full form, and a single learning drill. Our library uses the app’s own names, including Sunrise Flow, Centered Ball Hold, and Floating Cloud Hands. Their pages show what you actually do; they do not establish a traditional lineage for the whole app.
To compare complete practice rather than labels, inspect Upper Body Opener and its movement order. Our app guide explains the standing and chair tracks, guided timer, and daily plans. Choose by the kind of movement and instruction you want to follow.
FAQ
Not exactly. According to NCCIH, tai chi performed for health can be considered a form of qigong, but qigong includes many other practices too.
Usually qigong is easier for absolute beginners because it often uses shorter and more repetitive movement sets.
Both may help. If someone wants very simple practice, qigong may feel easier. If someone likes structured movement, tai chi may be more engaging.
References
- Qigong: What You Need To Know — NCCIH
- Tai Chi: What You Need To Know — NCCIH
- Introduction to Tai Chi and Qi Gong for Whole Health — U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs PDF
- A comprehensive review of health benefits of qigong and tai chi
- Effects of Tai Chi and Qigong on cognitive and physical functions in older adults
Updated: October 16, 2026
