What primarily differentiates internal martial arts from external martial arts?

The main factor that sets internal martial arts apart from external martial arts is the emphasis on mental and spiritual development. Internal martial arts, such as Tai Chi and Ba Gua, prioritize cultivating the mind, breath, and energy (often referred to as "Qi" or "Chi") in harmony with physical movements. This approach involves practices that focus on balance, relaxation, and a deeper connection between the practitioner’s mind and body.

This method fosters a sense of mindfulness, meditation, and internal awareness, which are integral to the practice. Practitioners develop not just their physical skills but also their emotional and spiritual well-being through these arts.

In contrast, external martial arts typically emphasize physical prowess, strength, and agility through techniques, strikes, and self-defense applications. While they might incorporate aspects of mental training, the primary focus remains on physical techniques and combat effectiveness. Thus, the distinction lies in internal arts’ priority on intangible qualities of training beyond mere physicality.