The movement in context
This fourth dynamic follows naturally from the Rightward Defense we examined previously. In practice, you may transition directly between the two, but more often, the body reveals a transitional technique—such as a diagonal cutting block—that creates a natural bridge between movements. This intermediate action, which may include a single-leg stance, offers not only balance and flow but also a moment of dynamic reorientation. While absent from the Muye Dobo Tongji, it appears consistently in embodied transmission—through the living interaction between teacher and student, generation to generation.
Such discoveries remind us that classical manuals record foundational principles, but the living art is carried forward through transmission, shaped by breath, timing, and the nuanced guidance that only direct teaching can provide.
Let’s explore this next piece together.
What Is the Upward Defense?
The Upward Defense is a vertical or slightly diagonal lift of the blade used to intercept an incoming overhead strike—whether a cut or a thrust.
But don’t think of it as a hard block. It’s more like a deflection with purpose, a redirection that prepares you to respond—decisively and efficiently.
Technical Execution
Preparation: From the Rightward Defense Dynamic
The Upward Defense begins where the Rightward Defense ends: in a right Bow-Arrow Stance.Your right foot is forward, left foot firmly planted behind. The knees are engaged, offering stability without stiffness. The sword is extended slightly to the right side of your body—not directly on the centerline.
Visualize this moment: your blade has just deflected an incoming attack aimed at your center, pushing the opponent’s weapon off-line. From this angle, your body is naturally poised to lift the sword into the next technique.
Keep your spine upright, chest open, and gaze forward—fully present for the transition.
Sense the Incoming Strike
Visualize your opponent delivering a downward strike—maybe from the right shoulder, maybe straight down the center.
Shift your weight slightly back or onto your rear leg. This primes you for lift and rotation.The Lift Itself
Draw the sword upward from lower right to upper left in a smooth arc. The blade's cutting edge faces outward to engage the incoming weapon. Maintain soft strength through the arms—neither rigid nor collapsed, but structurally present.Defensive Frame
Position the hilt near your centerline with the blade creating protective coverage above and forward. Think structure, not strength. Keep your spine upright—resist the urge to lean away.
Transition to Initiative: Upon deflecting the strike, flow immediately into your next action: a diagonal countercut, lateral stepping to exploit the opponent's blind side, or return to guard position with renewed awareness. Defense becomes the gateway to renewed engagement.
Integration
You now possess four fundamental dynamics: drawing the sword, establishing presence through Confront the Enemy, and the three directional defenses—leftward, rightward, and upward. Practice these as a continuous sequence until they flow as single movement like in the video below.
Master this opening until it becomes second nature. The remaining thirty-four dynamics of Ssangsudo will build naturally upon this foundation. When you have practiced sufficiently, record a video demonstrating your progress and share it with our community. I will provide six months comp (free access to all content) with personal guidance to anyone who shares a video showing dedicated practice before the end of this month. This will allow me to guide you through the complete Ssangsudo form.
Consider this your entrance to my online dojang.
Remember to observe the fundamentals: proper warm-ups, basic stances, and cool-down routines. Videos demonstrating these essential practices are available here:
Enjoy the journey and feel free to ask me anything, comment below!
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