What is the difference between Taijiquan and Xinyiquan?

Question

In terms of overall health benefits and the prowess of attacking an opponent.

Answer 1

Sorry, but Tai Chi has Buddhist roots too. Especially Chen, the original form.

The difference is in the approach to technique. The footwork is different but the techniques are the same. For instance - "snake creeps through grass" in Tai Chi is the same application as "Swallow" in Hsing I.

Really, this question cannot be answered by short descriptions like I gave. It is too detailed intensive. You really need to learn Internal arts and you will understand.

Another thing, Hsing I is NOT linear. Not at all.

Answer 2

Taijiquan has Taoist roots.

Xinyiquan has Buddhist (Shaolin) roots.

Xingyiquan features aggressive shocking attacks and direct footwork. Xingyiquan is linear in nature.

Taijiquan is circular in nature and uses internal energy (as opposed to brute force) and an opponents energy against himself.

In other words:

Xingyiquan is an External Martial Art. (this is a guess)

Taijiquan is an Internal Martial Art.

EDIT: Sensei Scandal -- Sounds like maybe you should update the Wikipedia entry!