Justin Lee Ford 
Martial arts are often associated with physical techniques and skills, but there are also several other components that are important for martial artists to master. One of these is the kiai, the act of focusing your intention that is widely used in many martial arts styles. Let’s delve into the history, usage, and application of this powerful yet often overlooked element in martial arts.
History of the Kiai
Kiai is a Japanese word that literally means “unified energy.” Let’s think about that for a second.
If you stay scattered in thought during the execution of a movement and its accompanying kiai, you are grossly bastardizing the idea. “Unified energy” means it is about taking all of your focus and intention and letting it converge with your action.
The feeling is first, the resultant sound is secondary. Flash your intention like lightning and simply let the vocalization of your kiai erupt alongside it like thunder.
Unforced, yet naturally powerful.
Take note that at no time did I say the shout has to be uttered as “kiai!” or “hi-yaah!”
As a technique, kiai have been used in many different contexts throughout Japanese history, not least of all in martial arts and traditional theater.
Over time, the kiai became an important part of the training and practice of many different martial arts originating in other parts of the world. For example, it is referred to as a kihap in Korean martial arts. Same character meaning, just a different pronunciation. Today, it is often used as a way to focus the mind and body, control breathing, and increase power and intensity in martial arts techniques.
Usage of the Kiai
The kiai is typically performed by exhaling loudly and forcefully while executing a martial arts technique, such as a strike, kick, block, or evasion. The timing and volume of the kiai can vary depending on the martial arts style, the technique being performed, and the individual practitioner’s preferences.
In addition to being used as a way to increase power and focus during martial arts techniques, the kiai can also serve several other purposes. For example, it can be used to intimidate opponents, distract them, or even communicate with training partners or instructors during practice.
Application of the Kiai
The kiai has several practical applications in martial arts training and practice. One of the most important is its ability to help practitioners develop better control over their breathing. By exhaling forcefully during a kiai, martial artists can learn to control their breath and regulate their heart rate, allowing them to stay focused and calm during training and competition.
Another important application of the kiai is its ability to help practitioners increase the power and effectiveness of their techniques. By exhaling forcefully during a technique, martial artists can create a burst of energy and momentum that can increase the force and impact of their strikes, kicks, or other techniques.
The kiai can also be used as a way to develop better mental focus and concentration. By using the kiai to focus their attention on the present moment, martial artists can improve their awareness and concentration, allowing them to more effectively anticipate and respond to their opponent’s movements.
Finally, the kiai can also be used as a way to develop better teamwork and communication skills in martial arts practice. By using the kiai to communicate with training partners or instructors, martial artists can build better relationships and develop a deeper understanding of their techniques and training methods.
A good coach or training partner can match breathing with you and signal when it is time to go harder or better relax simply with their vocal tone and volume.
Conclusion
Summed up, the kiai is an essential element of martial arts that has been passed down through generations. It’s a powerful tool that can help a martial artist increase their focus, strength, and mental fortitude. The kiai can be used in various ways, both in self-defense and in competition.
If you’re new to martial arts, the kiai may seem intimidating or even strange. Good.
It’s that discomfort which training seeks to place you in and empower you to break through. With time and practice, a kia can become second nature. It’s important to remember that the kiai is not just a yell or scream, but rather a controlled release of energy that requires proper technique and breath control. However you want to identify said energy is likely to be fitting–it is your kinetic energy, mental energy, muscular engagement, intention, etc.
Ultimately, the kiai is a physical expression of a martial artist’s inner strength, an expression of the essential mind-body connection made during the execution of an action. It’s an often misunderstood aspect of martial arts which, when understood, will help unleash new levels to your power.
Karate, Taekwondo, Traditional martial arts, Traditional arts
Black Belt Magazine
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