blade

Note that the blade thrusts forward before it lifts and that the head line is virtually level throughout. The cut is coordinated with the stamp of the right foot and the left is drawn upalmost simultaneously. Numbers 2a and 2e comprise the development of the stroke and from this point the left hand having thrust forward and upwards then pulls downward and throws forward, much as if throwing a knife. The right hand does almost nothing only guiding direction and aiding in the control on impact. The arms and hands should be supple and relaxed until about two or three inches above the target, there is then an instant of tension in the Shibori (wringing) and Ki-ken-tai-ichi as the action is concentrated. There is then another moment of relaxation in taking off and a slight tension in controlling the following-through blade.