KIAI

KIAI !!! KIAI reflects the power, harmony, strength, and tension of the body. The KIAI is often a forgotten part of katas and day to day practice. It is important to understand what it is and put in perspective before we further the discussion. A KIAI comes from the art of karate and ergo comes from the country of Japan. The true definition of KIAI is energy or mood. This is important as it sets the tone or resets the mindset of kata and the people observing the kata or the class. It should be noted that KIAI, as it is written, is not how it sounded out. Some might call it a warrior scream, a release of energy, or a push for tension. KIAI is a representation of our personalized journey in karate. No two KIAI’s are the same nor should they be. What should be reflected in the KIAI is the passion, power, and fear in the KIAI. KIAI’s represent the passion for the kata that we are doing or the strike that we are practicing. Ask any Sensei or instructor if they can tell the difference in terms of a motivated KIAI and someone that is going through the motions and I am certain they will tell they can. KIAI represents the power of the kata and strikes both physically and through breathing. A good KIAI gets the attention of the entire room. It is the warrior spirit coming out of the body in the audible form. A KIAI strikes fear into the opponent. An opponent is forced to think about what just happened and do they want to be a part of it. Chito Ryu karate practices it’s KIAI’s on every 10th repetition during drills and anytime a count is going. This is the time and place to practice how you want the KIAI to sound. The KIAI is one of the aspects of Karate that takes a while to perfect. It is the careful study of the art which also helps in the understanding of how to build your KIAI. The Battle Cry of Karate, KIAI, is an intriguing aspect of Karate. Through careful practice and preparation, students can get to the point where it ends a fight or prevents a fight. M. Rodgers