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This variation is generally considered non-destructive.

 

In general, American Kenpo forms, by default, do not have kiai's. That does not mean that one cannot nor should not add a kiai to a form. Kiai's have very practical value in defensive situations. But they can also be used to add intensity and/or emphasis to a form and should be added as desired. Generally speaking, a kiai is typically added at major striking maneuvers of the form.

 

The downside to adding a lot of kiai's to a form is that they may have the opposite effect as intended. This occurs by diminishing the emphasis to specific areas of the form, and instead, de-emphasizing them. By overloading the performance with too many points of attention, the final result is minimal to no emphasis at all being called out in the form. So, it is suggested that if one does add kiai's, that they are strategically placed throughout the form.

 

Note: To read more about the kiai and breathing as it relates to American Kenpo, refer to "Infinite Insight into Kenpo - Book 4 / Chapter 3".