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Haka

From earliest times, the haka has inspired and energised generations of Maori in both peace and war...
The haka was part of the Maori warrior's conditioning for war and battle. There are many types of haka however some were specifically intended for battle. Today the haka is an aspect of the Maori culture of New Zealand that has become very much a national expression of New Zealand identity. This has been reinforced by the All Blacks performing Ka Mate, Ka Mate through to New Zealand soldiers performing haka in Bosnia and East Timor.
The Meaning of Haka The common interpretation for the haka is war dance as symbolized by the All Blacks haka. Haka is also used generically to describe all forms of Maori dance and performance. Like many other Maori words there are levels of meanings wrapped up within the words themselves.
The word haka is made up two parts: ha-ka.
Ha = Breath	Ka = To ignite, to energise
Ha-ka can mean "to ignite the breath". The haka is simply a way to ignite the breath, energise the body and inspire the spirit. We can see that the root meaning of the word haka is associated with the breath in a similar way the word spirit derives from the Latin word spiritus meaning breath or air. This leads to such words as inspiration or expiration!
These same meanings are similar to the words of the All Black haka: Ka mate!
The Physical Benefits of Haka The haka is an energised form of movement that can improve neuromuscular efficiency. The strong use of the diaphragm, the strong isometric contractions and the vocalisation of sound can create tremendous energy buildup. The movements can performed fast or slow depending on the intention of the performer. When performed with high intensity, the haka becomes an anaerobic activity which soon puts the body into oxygen debt. Hence the need for excellent physical conditioning when performed repetitively. When performed slowly, some haka movements are very similar to Iron Shirt chi kung movements. The haka was seen by the Maori as a complete form of physical exercise and warrior conditioning..


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