This question was recently asked by a new student and it is a common line of enquiry so I have aimed to provide a basic answer in this brief article.

It is correct to say that Taiji is a martial art, and this is a key difference between Taichi and qigong. I hope the simplified explanation below will help to clarify:

Qi = energy (simply put)
Gong = skill
Qigong exercises = methods to develop 'Qi' skill
Tai ji (tai-chi) = refers to the principle of yin yang
Quan = fist
Taiji Quan (Tai Chi Chuan) = yin yang boxing

Classically it is said that Tai Chi is Qigong but Qigong is not yet Tai Chi. That is to say that practicing Tai Chi will develop Qi skill. However, in isolation Qigong practice will not equate to martial skill.

There are many qigong systems and the focus varies from health, medical and healing to the alchemical as well as iron robe and other exercises focused in supporting martial training. The Qigong and related practices that I teach are simple and focused on health: opening the body, accumulating qi, mobilising qi, promoting circulation, developing sensitivity and strengthening the mind, body matrix.