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For combat purposes, the kiai serves three functions. First of all, a loud noise, properly made, will startle an opponent and possibly create an opening in his defenses. Second, it will give a psychological lift to the performer, helping to build his spirit. Last, the kiai requires that the breath be exhaled and the stomach muscles tensed, adding force to a technique or preparing the body to absorb a blow from an opponent.

Plate 3 The author assists Master Masatoshi Nakayama as he demonstrates the rising block. Master Teruyuki Okazaki looks on.

CHAPTER TWO

Principles of Physical Movement

Natural Body Movement

One of the major problems that many karate practitioners have is overcoming awkward movement as they perform karate techniques. In many cases awkward movement is the direct result of a failure to follow the natural movement of the body.

Our muscles are trained daily to operate in an efficient manner that makes it possible to walk and perform a number of physical tasks effectively and with a minimum expenditure of energy. Such movements usually are smooth and effortless, since the body is used to them. In the practice of karate techniques, in fact in all physical endeavors, adherence to these normal patterns of movement is necessary in order to perform at our best.