Qigong is a concept that stems from ancient China and is based on the findings of Chinese medicine on the characteristics of human nature. In Chinese medicine, a person is considered under the perspective of an energy-filled being. The next logical step is attempting to understand and cultivate this energy system. The goal is to create and maintain harmony in this energy system. This way, one can protect oneself from sickness and live a healthy and long life. The closest translation of Qigong would be "work with energy." 


Practicing Qigong also lays the foundation for better body posture and orientation. The energy flows best when the body is connected in itself so that blockages in the joints or the bonding of the connective tissues do not disturb the flow of the qi. Breathing can flow through this effective orientation, and with this good breathing structure, the body finds more relaxation, which then strengthens the flow of the qi. It is a give and take of in and out—a reciprocation that brings forth strength and health as well as fosters joy in life.

A proper body orientation and flow of breathing strengthens the entire body, and the level of energy steadily increases. Qigong enjoys a history of over two-and-a-half thousand years in China and brings together an immense repertoire of techniques for inner invigoration, maintaining health, and healing. It also tremendously improves and increases one's energy potential, and as a side benefit of training, one learns to connect to one's spiritual side.


Taijiquan (Tai Chi) means "the highest form of fistfight" and belongs to one of the most distinguished forms of Chinese martial arts. There are many legends surrounding its origins as well as the prowess of old taijiquan masters. One such legend tells of a Daoist monk named Zhang Sanfeng. He was purported to have developed this style in a Shaolin temple in the 13th century and retreated to the Wudang Mountains to master it. The unique thing about taijiquan is the understanding of energy and the Taoist principle of harmony and balance. It directly utilizes the opponent's power against them—finesse is always prized above raw power. Taijiquan takes knowledge from Qigong to enhance internal structures for the fight. It is for this reason that it is also referred to as an internal martial art. Taijiquan is the shell, and Qigong is the core. There is no taijiquan without Qigong, but Qigong can exist without taijiquan.


The different "forms" of Tai Chi promotes  meditation through movement. It presents a demanding full-body workout for the cardiovascular, cognitive, and coordinative systems. The diverse techniques of Tai Chi are connected to a balanced system of exercises that addresses all areas of the body's capabilities, such as muscular strength, endurance, agility, and breathing, and as such has a positive effect on relaxation and mental fitness.

This martial art forms a training program that increases the body's readiness to act and is based on a broad view of human life and its relation to the universe. The philosophical orientation of taijiquan can be found again in Taoism. Taoism illustrates the term Qi and the theory behind it in connection with Yin and Yang. Above all, those who want to practice Qigong and Tai Chi on a deeper level would be advised to familiarize themselves with the concept of Taoism. Tai chi is suitable for everyone regardless of gender, age, and physical condition.



Your body is your best friend! Regeneration is just as important as physical exertion. Above all, both forms of martial arts teach you how to listen to your own body and recognize what goes on around and within it. Self-defense does not only mean protecting against negative outside influences, but rather, it begins much earlier: in your own body and spirit. Qigong and Tai Chi affect the following areas.


  • Strengthens muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones

  • Improves body posture

  • Strengthens the connective tissue and fasciae

  • Reduces fat

  • Increases oxygen flow and improves circulation

  • Increases vigor, suppleness, agility

  • Improves breathing, organ functions, and the autonomic and central nervous systems

  • Strengthens the body's defenses and helps prevent illness

  • Reduces stress-related and chronic discomfort, bodily tension, and nervousness

  • Activates self-regulating forces and health processes in the face of acute illnesses and chronic pains

  • Harmonizes one's inner balance

  • Develops a high sense of physical awareness

  • Increases vigor, sense of well-being, and vitality


  • Opens the energy gates (meridians, vessels) and breaks down blockages

  • Harmonizes the whole energy system

  • Regulates the flow of energy (Qi flow) in the organs, meridians, and vessels


  • Relieves tension, helps provide composure and calmness, mental clarity, and lightness

  • Increases the ability to concentration

  • Naturally develops one's internal discipline


  • Balance

  • Self-confidence

  • Better health and quality of life

  • Maintaining and setting health


Everything you need to know about our training concept

More background knowledge on Pekiti-Tirsia Kali


Our head trainer
Tuhon Dipita Schäfer


About Grandmaster Grand Tuhon Leo Tortal Gaje Jr.