Importance and Role of “Kihap” Or “Kiai” in Taekwondo

Kihap, also spelled “kihap” or “kiai,” is a central concept in the traditional Korean martial art of taekwondo. It refers to the vocalization that taekwondo students make when performing certain techniques, such as kicks, strikes, and blocks. The word “kihap” itself is a combination of two Korean words: “ki,” which means “energy,” and “hap,” which means “to release.”

The role of kihap in taekwondo is serving both physical and mental purposes. On a physical level, kihap helps to coordinate the body’s movements and increase the power and speed of techniques. By exhaling and vocalizing at the moment of impact, practitioners can release a burst of energy that adds power and focus to their strikes. Additionally, kihap helps practitioners to stay relaxed during techniques, which can improve the speed and accuracy of techniques.

On a mental level, kihap helps practitioners to focus their minds and increase their confidence and determination. By vocalizing at the moment of impact, practitioners can release their mental and emotional tension, which can help them to stay calm and focused under pressure. Additionally, kihap can be used to intimidate opponents and to signal to others that the practitioner is serious and determined.

In addition to its physical and mental benefits, kihap is also an important aspect of taekwondo’s cultural and roots. It is believed to have originated from traditional Korean martial arts, which often included vocalization as a way of expressing power and determination.

Kihap is not only used in taekwondo but also other martial arts such as Karate, Kendo, and some forms of Kung-Fu. It is a way of expressing the martial artist’s inner power and determination to overcome any obstacle.

In conclusion, kihap is a central concept in the martial art of taekwondo and serves both physical and mental purposes. It helps practitioners to coordinate their movements, increase their power and speed, focus their minds, and increase their confidence and determination. It is also an important aspect of taekwondo’s cultural and philosophical roots.

We offer a Taekwondo course to school going kids at Finstock Evarsity College. We invite parents to enroll their children in our taekwondo course. To enroll click on the link below:

https://finstockevarsity.com/programs/college/short-courses/music-and-entertainment/tkd/