The Uchinan Chu or Okinawan people use the term "chinkuchi" in
Uchinan gushi (Okinawan language) to describe the power that occurs
when using the mind and body in a spontaneous action creating
maximum power with minimum effort. To achieve "chinkuchi" all of the
muscles, tendons, ligaments, breathing and mental intentions are in
perfect coordination in a single moment of time.One of the goals
of any Okinawan style karate-ka is to achieve "chinkuchi" at the
right moment. It is not possible for all movements to achieve "chinkuchi"
due to the situation but every technique should have the
possibility. The achievement of this unique power of Okinawan karate
is accomplished through the five elements of creating maximum
results with minimum effort.
Intention or Zanshin: You must have the correct intention and
understanding of the particular circumstances of the situation.
Strategy and tactics are of extreme importance. Okinawan kata
provides the strategy and tactics to be deployed for multiple
situations.
Perfection of Technique: Execution of the kamae, intermediary
movement, and timing and distance are elements that when integrated
with perfection lead to "chinkuchi". The balance and stability of
the postures are effected by the correct use of shitabara, koshi and
jushin.
Fluid Movement: Fluid movement comes from the relaxed use of the
body. The body moves as one without pauses. Breath control and use
of the koshi, shitabara, and jushin are key ingredients to fluid
movement.
Speed of Movement: Speed of movement is determined by the
acceleration and velocity of the movement. The transfer of energy
from the koshi (hip area) to the limbs creates the speed of movement
and impact of the technique.
Power of Movement: Muscle contraction and snapping of the tendons
and ligaments have to be strong to produce energy to deliver a
decisive blow. The correct posture has to be maintained to allow the
energy to be transferred to the opponent.