Qi / Ki

氣 / 気

Concept of vital life energy and internal breath in Chinese and Japanese martial arts.

Quick Facts

CategoryConcept / Principle

Pronunciation/[chee] / [kee]/

Alternative NamesVital energy, Life force, Internal breath

Definition

Qi (Chinese) or Ki (Japanese) represents the fundamental vital energy circulating through all living things. Internal martial arts like Tai Chi, Qigong, and Aikido cultivate Qi through breath regulation, biomechanical alignment, and focused intent.

Related Terms

Kiai気合

Martial shout used to focus energy, tighten core muscles, and project intent.

Hara / Tanden腹 / 丹田

Lower abdomen representing the physical and energetic center of balance.

Dan Tian丹田

Internal energy reservoir and center of gravity in the lower abdomen according to Chinese tradition.

Associated Martial Arts

Shaolin Quan Yoshinkan Aikido Tomiki Aikido Iwama Ryu Yoseikan Aikido Chen Style Tai Chi Yang Style Tai Chi Wu Style Tai Chi Real Aikido Six Harmonies Praying Mantis (Liuhe Tanglangquan)Wu (Hao) Style Tai Chi Li Style Tai Chi