Master Sun Peiqiang grew up in a family that taught traditional martial arts. He now runs a Taijiquan school and teaches many students from China and abroad. His family also preserved a set of qigong exercises called the Five Elements Longevity Practice.
He says practicing these forms helps organs, blood circulation and general health. Tai Chi appears as slow park exercises and as fast moves in films. Chen style mixes hard and soft movements, while Yang style is gentler and easier to learn.
Master Sun explains that internal energy, or qi, comes from breathing and focuses in the dantian. His advice: start with forms, then build strength and technique, and finally train the mind.
Difficult words
- martial arts — physical combat and self-defence training
- taijiquan — a Chinese martial art with slow movements
- qigong — breathing and movement exercises for health
- organ — parts inside the body that do jobsorgans
- circulation — movement of blood around the body
- dantian — area in the lower belly used in breathing
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you tried Tai Chi or qigong? What did you notice?
- Would you prefer the gentler Yang style or the harder Chen style? Why?
- Which part of training would you start with: forms, strength, or mind? Explain your choice.
Related articles
Study: Industrial Revolution pollution affected people unevenly in England
A study in Science Advances used bones and historical records to track pollution exposure during the Industrial Revolution. Researchers analysed remains from 94 people in industrial South Shields and rural Barton-upon-Humber and found uneven, gendered exposure.
Caribbean year of tensions, culture and climate
The Caribbean saw political tensions between the United States and Venezuela, major cultural wins and environmental challenges. Hurricanes and renewable energy plans shaped the year, while sport successes and political debates marked regional headlines.
New law sets marriage age at 18, but child marriage continues in South Punjab
In May 2025 Pakistan made the legal marriage age 18 for everyone. Child marriage still happens in South Punjab, as seen in Behal, where a 14-year-old girl named Zunaira was arranged to marry a much older man.
