These styles are categorized as soft or internal, in contrast to the hard external style of Kung Fu. For example, a hard block against an opponent would be characteristic of Kung Fu, while a soft, harmonizing block would be typical of Tai Chi.

The term Tai Chi, or Taiji, translates to “supreme ultimate” reflecting its status as the ultimate martial art. Various studies have shown that Tai Chi offers significant benefits for longevity, joint health, injury recovery, and mental well-being.

Both Kung Fu and Tai Chi offer benefits beyond self-defence. They promote health, fitness, and flexibility for people of all ages. Kung Fu is an excellent activity for adults, children, and teenagers, helping to build confidence and discipline while introducing them to martial arts. Tai Chi is particularly beneficial for adults in maintaining good health.

The oldest form of Tai Chi, Chen style is characterized by its combination of slow, graceful movements and fast, explosive ones. It emphasizes spiral movements and the alternation between softness and hardness, reflecting its martial arts origins.

Known for its large, slow, and expansive movements, Yang style is the most popular form of Tai Chi practiced today. It focuses on soft and continuous motions, making it accessible for practitioners of all ages and fitness levels.

A more compact and less widely practiced form, Wu Hao style features small, precise movements and a high, upright stance. It emphasizes controlling movements and internal energy flow, appealing to those interested in the meditative aspects of Tai Chi.

Similar to Wu Hao but with larger movements and a distinctive forward-leaning posture, Wu style focuses on softness and fluidity. It is characterized by its subtle, flowing movements and is designed to promote relaxation and internal energy
cultivation.

Combining elements of Xingyi and Bagua martial arts with Tai Chi, Sun style is noted for its smooth, flowing steps and agile footwork. It emphasizes a continuous, smooth flow of movements, making it suitable for health and wellness purposes​.

Shuang Yang, or Shuang Yang Bai He Rou Ruan Quan, is a form of Tai Chi derived from the White Crane system. It is a soft, internal style that emphasizes slow, flowing movements, stability, and precision, promoting both self-defence and health benefits.

This style integrates principles of energy control, balance, and relaxation, suitable for meditation and improving mental well-being. Originating from the Fujian province, it shares Tai Chi’s foundational philosophy while being distinct in its unique forms and techniques.