Last week I saw a documentary movie about a great master, Cheng Man-Ching, who brought Tai Chi to the Western world. I don’t have much knowledge about Tai Chi, but I have heard a lot about Taekwondo. I was curious to know the difference between the two types of martial arts. Here is what I have found.

Taekwondo is grouped under hard martial arts because it emphasizes on kicking and striking techniques. Training involves punching, kicking, jumping, and blocking. Tai chi on the other hand is considered as soft and internal martial art. It emphasizes on stability and involves rhythmic and relaxed movements (moving meditation) which involve redirecting and countering techniques. It helps to improve sleep, balance and cardiovascular health. Similar health benefits could also be acquired from Taekwondo. Tai chi is considered as non-aggressive martial arts while Taekwondo is aggressive since its main purpose is to build defense skills that will help during a fight.