Flight is a ubiquitous ability in the later parts of the Dragon Ball franchise, especially in Dragon Ball Z. While initially rare in the original Dragon Ball series, by Dragon Ball Z, nearly every Z Fighter could be seen soaring through the skies. This widespread capability begs the question for many fans: When Did Goku Learn To Fly and how did the series’ main hero master this iconic skill?
Goku demonstrates a rudimentary form of flight towards the end of Dragon Ball, and by the time his son Gohan is introduced, he has fully mastered true flight. The exact timeline and method of his learning remain debated among fans. However, by examining key moments in Dragon Ball, we can piece together a likely explanation for Goku’s acquisition of this essential technique.
The Advent of Flight in Dragon Ball
The concept of humans and humanoid characters like Goku achieving flight was first introduced through Tien Shinhan, Chiaotzu, and the Crane School of martial arts. Although Puar, a shapeshifting cat, had displayed similar abilities earlier, the Crane School’s “Sky Dancing” technique marked the formal introduction of human-achieved flight. This early form, “Sky Dancing,” was distinct from the later, more dynamic flight seen in Dragon Ball Z. Sky Dancing involved more of a levitation or controlled hovering above the ground. Regardless of its form, the underlying principle remained consistent: flight and levitation are achieved by manipulating one’s ki energy. Individuals with greater ki control could perform these feats with apparent ease.
It’s worth noting that young Goku initially possessed a different, albeit less conventional, method of flight – rotating his Saiyan tail like a propeller. However, this ability vanished permanently after his tail was cut off. Before mastering ki-based flight, Goku primarily relied on the Flying Nimbus, a magical cloud, for aerial transportation. The Nimbus was a constant companion throughout Dragon Ball, but became largely obsolete by Dragon Ball Z, as Goku and most of his allies gained the ability to fly independently. The series never explicitly depicts Goku learning to fly, leading to much speculation about how he transitioned from Nimbus-reliant to a master of aerial movement. Goku’s renowned talent for quickly learning through observation and his intensive training under Kami could provide plausible explanations for this leap in ability.
Deciphering Goku’s Path to Flight Mastery
Goku, already a highly skilled martial artist with exceptional control over his ki and power, likely began his journey to flight after encountering Tien Shinhan’s Sky Dancing technique. Witnessing Tien’s aerial maneuvers during the 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament likely sparked an understanding in Goku of how to manipulate his own ki for similar purposes. It’s plausible that observing Sky Dancing served as a catalyst, initiating Goku’s subconscious learning process.
By the culmination of the original Dragon Ball series, during the 23rd World Martial Arts Tournament, Goku visibly demonstrates true flight during his battle against King Piccolo’s son. This pivotal moment occurs after Goku’s rigorous three-year training with Kami, marking a significant increase in his power and ki control. By the dawn of Dragon Ball Z, Goku’s mastery of flight is undeniable. This advancement can be attributed to his continued training and growth in the years leading up to Gohan’s birth and early childhood.
Interestingly, Krillin, Goku’s lifelong friend, also acquires the ability to fly around the same period. Yamcha, another human Z Fighter, learns to fly after undergoing training with Kami as well. This pattern suggests that Kami’s training regimen played a crucial role in enhancing ki manipulation for the Earth’s warriors, unlocking abilities like flight. It appears that Kami’s guidance provided the key for Goku and others to master ki-based flight, allowing Goku to literally and figuratively reach new heights by the end of Dragon Ball.
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