Chen leads his students in tai chi in Yi'nan county, Shandong province. [Photo provided to China Daily]

"It's not just about looking good. It has some principle and philosophy inside it, which can bring you strength, health and a peaceful mind," he says.

Young tai chi athletes may focus more on the competition but later realize it is not only about medals but is also good for health, mindset and discipline, Nebulana says.

"It's very useful in life, and that's why I choose the life of tai chi and wushu (martial arts). It's a lifelong journey for me," he says, adding that all of his family members are martial art athletes, including several champions at the national level.

John Saw, a 90-year-old Australian disciple of Chen Zhonghua, says that he decided to follow Chen after hearing his open-house lecture in Australia 10 years ago.

"I like his teaching, so I try to follow him. I met with a lot of kung fu masters but he was the one that really impressed me," Saw says.

Saw had taught qigong in many places including Hawaii, Los Angeles, Spain, Chile and Venezuela.