I.e. to achieve the end results by using vehicles other than sheer muscular power and fitness (fitness in a western sense). For example, body building could be defined as an ‘external’ activity, as the primary goal is to develop the muscular shell of the body.

Some yoga disciplines which focus on developing health of bodily organs, correcting nervous energy flow and the flow of other energies not yet accepted in the west – these can be defined as internal.

The same can be said of Martial Arts. There are those that are solely focused on quick results in order to compete in point-sparring competitions etc. The aim here is to develop the body quickly in order to function effectively in a competitive environment.

Typically, internal concepts and aspects take considerably longer to achieve; they are therefore not (usually) entirely suitable for fast results. The aims are long term – strength that does not dwindle over time, good health, mental clarity and many other associated benefits.

And of course, being a martial art, becoming a skilled martial arts student is a fundamental aspect of the path.

In the West, we are accustomed to expecting fast results. However, like any good investment, sometimes we just have to have patience in order to realize the benefits.

If these aspects are of interest to you, perhaps practicing an internal martial may be something you would like to explore.