Re: kiai in aikido?
I don't know where you train, so I have no way of knowing what kiai has to do (if anything) with *your* aikido.
In my training, it is usually possible to execute the same technique in a smooth flowing way, or in a sharp, explosive way. Either way is equally valid aikido, it just depends on the situation and particularly the energy provided by the attacker. When explosive technique is called for, kiai might also be appropriate. Kiai is also often appropriate in weapons work.