In Aikido, “breath power” (kokyu-ryoku) is emphasized. Is that related to lung capacity?
Aikido breath power is much more than lung capacity. It involves utilization of the entire body. It is not simply breath, but the concentrated power that arises when body and mind are unified. Breath power is crucial for Aikido. Even if one’s lung capacity is not increased, one can still attain great and liberating power through unification of body and mind. Breath power and ki are the Source of Aikido strength. There are no human beings who do not breathe, and everyone does it unconsciously. If breathing ceases, we will quickly depart from this world. Breathing is the most natural of reflexes. Ki and breath power are indivisible, the very being of Aikido.
