Neijia

Neijia, or internal styles, refers to a tradition within Chinese martial arts that prioritizes internal aspects such as qi (energy), intention, relaxation, and coordinated breath over sheer muscular force. The term serves to distinguish these from waijia, or external styles, which emphasize outward appearance, speed, and strength. The three historically recognized neijia styles are taijiquan, xingyiquan, and baguazhang, each with a distinct movement principle: taiji is slow and continuous, xingyi emphasizes linear, explosive moments, and baguazhang uses circular, turning steps. However, the boundary between internal and external is debated among practitioners and scholars.

Origins are linked to Chinese philosophical and qigong traditions, drawing on Daoist concepts of neigong and cultivating unseen energy. The modern popularity of neijia stems from both traditional lineages and the 20th-century global spread of taijiquan and related arts, often framed as a path to health as well as combat effectiveness.

Practice characteristics commonly associated with neijia include relaxed, rooted posture; alignment that allows for efficient energy flow; calm, focused breath; and perceptual skills such as "listening" (ting jin) to the opponent's energy. Training often involves solo forms, partner exercises like push-hand, and specific neigong or qigong routines to develop internal strength.

Contemporary usage sometimes treats neijia as a descriptor for any martial art that emphasizes internal principles, and some scholars caution against essentialist interpretations. Nevertheless, neijia has shaped both traditional practice and modern martial arts culture worldwide.