How to Find the Right Qigong Class or Instructor for Your Needs

Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines gentle movement, breathing techniques, and focused intention to cultivate energy (qi), often framed around health-related goals. With roots going back thousands of years, qigong encompasses hundreds of different forms and styles ranging from simple health exercises to advanced meditation practices.

Whether you are seeking stress management, flexibility goals, considerations related to a health condition, or a deeper mind-body practice, finding the right qigong instruction involves understanding different approaches, evaluating instructor qualifications, and ensuring the practice matches your goals and abilities.

This guide helps you understand qigong traditions and practices, compare different teaching styles, ask the right questions, and know what to expect from your practice. For research-based information, the NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health provides an in-depth overview. The National Qigong Association also maintains resources for finding qualified instructors.

If you are managing a medical condition, recovering from injury, or have physical limitations, consult with your healthcare provider before beginning qigong practice. Qigong can support well-being but is not a substitute for medical care.

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What Type of Qigong Practice Do You Need?

Start with your primary goals. Different qigong approaches serve different purposes.

If a style sounds unfamiliar, ask the instructor to describe their approach, what a typical class involves, and who the practice is best suited for.

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Understanding Qigong

Qigong (also spelled chi kung or chi gong) translates roughly as "energy cultivation" or "working with qi." Understanding its foundations helps you find instruction that resonates with your goals.

Core elements of qigong

All qigong practices incorporate some combination of:

Body/posture (Shen):

• Specific postures, either still or moving
• Alignment and relaxation
• Standing, sitting, or lying positions

Breath (Xi):

• Conscious breathing patterns
• Coordination of breath with movement
• Various breathing techniques for different purposes

Mind/intention (Yi):

• Focused attention
• Visualization and imagery
• Mental guidance of energy

The emphasis on each element varies by style and practice.

How qigong works

Qigong is based on traditional Chinese concepts:

Qi (energy): Traditional concept of vital energy flowing through the body along pathways called meridians. Qigong practices aim to cultivate, balance, and direct this energy.

Mind-body integration: The practice emphasizes connection between mental states and physical health. Relaxation, focus, and intention are considered essential to the practice.

Gentle approach: Unlike vigorous exercise, qigong typically uses gentle movement, relaxed effort, and a meditative quality. The goal is ease rather than strain.

Types of qigong

Health/medical qigong: Practices designed for wellness and supporting health conditions. Often simpler forms with clear health-focused intentions.

Martial qigong: Internal training for martial arts. Builds internal power, rooting, and body conditioning. Can be more demanding physically.

Spiritual/religious qigong: Practices connected to Daoist, Buddhist, or other spiritual traditions. May include meditation, visualization, and cultivation practices.

Contemporary qigong: Modern adaptations often focused on health-related goals and stress management. May draw from multiple traditions.

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Qigong Styles and Forms

Many different qigong styles exist, each with characteristic practices.

Common health qigong forms

Ba Duan Jin (Eight Pieces of Brocade): One of the most popular qigong sets. Eight standing exercises combining stretching, breathing, and gentle movement. Good for beginners.

Wu Qin Xi (Five Animal Frolics): Ancient form mimicking movements of five animals (tiger, deer, bear, monkey, crane). Develops different physical and energetic qualities.

Yi Jin Jing (Muscle/Tendon Changing Classic): Stretching and strengthening exercises. More physically demanding than some other forms.

Liu Zi Jue (Six Healing Sounds): Practice using specific sounds with movement. Each sound relates to different organs and energy.

Tai Chi Qigong: Simplified practices drawing from tai chi principles. Bridge between qigong and tai chi practice.

Standing practices

Zhan Zhuang (Standing Like a Tree): Standing meditation holding specific postures for extended periods. Develops internal awareness, alignment, and energy. Can be physically demanding despite apparent simplicity.

Wuji standing: Basic standing meditation in a neutral posture. Foundation for many qigong and internal arts practices.

Seated and lying practices

Seated meditation: Chair or floor-seated practices focusing on breath, visualization, and energy cultivation.

Lying qigong: Practices done lying down, accessible for those with mobility limitations. Often focus on relaxation and internal awareness.

Moving practices

Spontaneous qigong: Practices allowing the body to move naturally in response to energy. Requires guidance and grounding.

Walking qigong: Moving meditation combining walking with breath and awareness.

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Session Details: What to Know Before You Start

Typical class formats

Drop-in group class (typically about 60-90 minutes): Most common format. Includes warm-up, instruction, practice, and closing. Good for ongoing regular practice.

Beginner workshop (typically about 2-4 hours): Intensive introduction to basics. Often covers one form or set of practices in depth.

Private instruction (typically about 30-60 minutes): One-on-one teaching. Allows for personalized instruction and correction. Higher cost but faster learning.

Ongoing course (typically about 6-12 weeks): Progressive learning of a specific form or approach. Builds skills over time with regular practice.

Retreat format (typically about 1-7 days): Immersive practice often including multiple sessions daily. Good for deepening practice or intensive learning.

What a typical class includes

Opening (typically about 5-10 minutes):

• Settling and centering
• Basic warm-up or preparation
• Setting intention

Main practice (typically about 30-60 minutes):

• Instruction in specific practices
• Guided practice
• Correction and refinement
• May include standing, moving, and seated elements

Closing (typically about 5-10 minutes):

• Integration practice
• Closing meditation
• Discussion or questions

Physical demands

Qigong is generally gentle, but demands vary:

Standing practices: May require holding positions for extended periods. Can be adapted with shorter duration or wall support.

Balance requirements: Some practices challenge balance. Modifications usually available.

Flexibility: Generally does not require great flexibility. Movements are typically within comfortable range.

Pace: Usually slow and deliberate. Focus is on quality of movement rather than intensity.

What to wear and bring

Clothing:

• Loose, comfortable clothes that allow movement
• Flat, flexible shoes or bare feet
• Layers for temperature changes

What to bring:

• Water bottle
• Small towel
• Notebook for notes if desired
• Open, curious attitude

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Your First Class: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Knowing what to expect helps you approach practice with confidence.

Before your first class

Preparation:

• Contact the instructor with questions about the class
• Arrive about 10-15 minutes early
• Eat lightly about 1-2 hours before (not immediately before)
• Use the bathroom before class

Information to share:

• Any injuries or physical limitations
• Relevant health conditions
• Previous experience with qigong or related practices
• Your goals for practice

When you arrive

Expect to:

• Meet the instructor and other students
• Learn basic etiquette for the space
• Find a comfortable place in the room
• Receive an overview of the class structure

The instructor should:

• Welcome you and make you feel comfortable
• Ask about any limitations or concerns
• Explain what will be covered
• Offer modifications when needed

During the class

What to expect:

• Guided instruction with demonstration
• Opportunity to follow along and practice
• Gentle corrections (verbal or hands-on with permission)
• Periods of stillness and internal focus
• Focus on relaxation rather than effort

What is normal:

• Not understanding everything immediately
• Feeling warmth, tingling, or unusual sensations
• Mind wandering during practice
• Some muscle fatigue from holding positions
• Feeling relaxed or slightly altered after practice

What to communicate:

• Physical discomfort or pain
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Emotional responses
• Questions about technique

After the class

Before you leave:

• Ask any questions
• Learn about ongoing classes or next steps
• Get recommendations for home practice
• Thank the instructor

In the following days:

• Notice effects of the practice
• Practice what you learned if comfortable
• Note questions for next class
• Allow time for integration

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How to Choose a Quality Qigong Instructor

Finding the right teacher significantly impacts your learning and experience.

Look for these signals

Knowledge and training:

• Clear lineage or training background
• Years of personal practice
• Study with recognized teachers
• Understanding of qigong theory and principles

Teaching ability:

• Clear explanation and demonstration
• Ability to adapt to different students
• Patience with beginners
• Progressive, structured approach

Safety awareness:

• Asks about health conditions
• Offers modifications
• Does not push beyond appropriate limits
• Understands when to refer out

Appropriate boundaries:

• Professional conduct
• Respects personal space
• Asks permission before physical correction
• Clear about scope of practice

Instructor qualifications

Qigong instruction is not regulated, so qualifications vary:

Training background:

• Study with recognized masters or schools
• Years of training
• Depth of knowledge in specific forms
• Continuing education

Teaching experience:

• Years teaching
• Experience with your demographic
• Ability to work with health conditions
• Track record with students

Personal practice:

• Ongoing personal cultivation
• Embodiment of principles
• Integration of practice in life

Professional standards:

• Membership in professional organizations
• Ethical guidelines
• Liability awareness

Red flags to take seriously

Watch for these warning signs:

Safety concerns:

• Pushing through pain or discomfort
• Ignoring health conditions
• No modifications offered
• Claims to treat or cure diseases

Boundary issues:

• Inappropriate touch or contact
• Pressure to commit or pay
• Isolation from other teachers
• Excessive personal attention

Unrealistic claims:

• Guaranteed results
• Miraculous healing claims
• Secret or exclusive techniques
• Superiority over other teachers

Scope violations:

• Medical diagnosis or treatment
• Discouraging medical care
• Psychological treatment without credentials
• Claims outside their training

Questions to ask before committing

About their background:

• What is your training and lineage?
• How long have you been practicing and teaching?
• What styles or forms do you teach?
• Do you have experience with my goals/conditions?

About the practice:

• What does a typical class include?
• How do you work with beginners?
• What modifications are available?
• What can I expect from regular practice?

About logistics:

• What is the class schedule?
• What are the costs?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Do you offer private instruction?

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Special Considerations

Qigong for health conditions

Qigong is used supportively for many conditions:

Stress and anxiety:

• Calming practices often helpful
• Breath focus can reduce stress response
• Regular practice builds resilience
• Not a substitute for mental health treatment

Chronic pain:

• Gentle movement can support pain management
• Relaxation helps reduce tension
• Must work within limits
• Coordinate with healthcare providers

Balance and mobility:

• Gentle practices can support balance
• Adapt movements for abilities
• May complement physical therapy
• Start conservatively

Chronic conditions:

• Many find qigong supportive
• Work with qualified instructors
• Coordinate with medical care
• Progress gradually

Always inform your instructor of health conditions and get medical clearance when appropriate.

Qigong and meditation

Qigong includes meditative elements:

Similarities:

• Focus and attention training
• Relaxation and calm
• Mind-body integration
• Regular practice benefits

Differences:

• Qigong typically includes movement
• Physical cultivation emphasis
• Energy cultivation concepts
• Different theoretical framework

Many people practice both qigong and other meditation forms.

Qigong and martial arts

Qigong is foundation for internal martial arts:

Connection to martial arts:

• Tai chi, bagua, and xingyi include qigong
• Internal power development
• Body conditioning
• Meditation and cultivation

Standalone practice:

• Qigong can be practiced without martial arts
• Health focus is accessible to all
• No combat applications necessary
• Beneficial regardless of martial interest

Home practice

Qigong benefits from regular practice:

Building a home practice:

• Start with simple practices learned in class
• Short daily practice is better than long occasional sessions
• Morning practice is traditional but any time works
• Create a quiet, comfortable space

What to practice at home:

• Forms you have learned in class
• Basic standing or sitting meditation
• Breath practices
• Simple movements you remember well

Support for home practice:

• Videos or written materials from your teacher
• Regular class attendance to refine
• Private lessons for correction
• Practice groups with fellow students

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Qigong vs. Related Practices

Understanding how qigong relates to similar practices:

Qigong vs. Tai Chi

Tai chi:

• Complete martial art with forms
• Longer, more complex sequences
• Martial applications
• Usually learned progressively over years

Qigong:

• Can be simple or complex
• Individual exercises or short sets
• Generally more accessible
• Can be learned quickly (basics)

Many tai chi teachers include qigong, and many practices overlap.

Qigong vs. Yoga

Yoga:

• Indian origin
• Emphasis on postures (asanas)
• Includes breath and meditation
• Various styles with different intensities

Qigong:

• Chinese origin
• Emphasis on energy cultivation
• Flowing movements or standing practices
• Generally gentler approach

Both are valuable mind-body practices with some overlap.

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How Nusu Helps You Compare Options

Nusu is built to make discovery clearer and more transparent for consumers. Here is what you can expect on the platform:

• Search by location and service type
• Compare presences using the details instructors choose to share
• See reviews and ratings where available
• Merit-based rankings that are never sold to the highest bidder
• Ranking signals that include verification status, profile completeness, client feedback, relevance, and engagement
• A public overview of ranking principles at /platform/ranking

When to Seek Other Help Instead

Qigong can be supportive but is not appropriate for all situations.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Qigong is a traditional practice that can support well-being but is not a substitute for medical care. Consult with a healthcare provider before beginning qigong practice if you have health conditions or concerns.