Before any practice,

exercise with a partner, or contest, the following form is always followed. The junior approaches to the senior and both make Tachi-rei as in plate 112, in this case the Shinai is at an angle as though in a scabbard. Next the two participants move to Ma-ai
(fighting distance) and drop down into the Sonkyo (crouch position) and make the motion of drawing a blade with the right hand, over the head and down into the Chudan (middle step) position. The left hand is placed in position as in plate 113, and upon standing and assuming correct Seigan (natural posture) as in plate 114, they are ready to begin. The same form applies in reverse on finishing.