As will be seen later,

a full Fumikomi (attack step) means that some three feet to three feet six inches must be covered and so the Tsuzukete not only aids balance but also gives a smooth finish to the technique. It also has the extra function of avoiding any retaliation by the opponent. For clarity the Tsuzukete is shown in a direct line but in actual fact it is necessary to sidestep to avoid crashing into the opponent.

The method of keeping the right foot advanced is termed Tsugu-ashi (following feet) and is the method of stepping employed at any time when the opponent is at Ma Ai distance or attack range. When stepping backwards the right foot pushes back and is drawn back afterwards. A single Tsugu-ashi step is two separate movements of the feet made almost simultaneously, ie,
'one-two", 'one-two' and so on.