Dynamic 5: Forward Strike
Begin by rotating 90 degrees to your left, aligning your body with the new direction of attack. Step forward with your right foot into a Right Bow-Arrow Stance—the front leg bent like a bow, the rear leg extended like an arrow, creating a solid base for power transfer.
As you step, deliver a vertical forward strike toward the centerline of an opponent. Ensure your hips square upon impact to channel the force generated from your rear leg efficiently through the sword.
Key points:
Don’t lower the sword tip, keep the blade ‘alive’.
Synchronize the strike with the step to maximize power.
Maintain upright posture and full body engagement.
Dynamic 6: Leftward Diagonal Strike (with Tornado Block)
Advance with your left foot, then right, preparing for the next strike. As you move, perform a circular defensive sweep—a Tornado Block—to your left shoulder, redirecting a potential incoming attack.
From this motion, flow into a diagonal strike from high right to low left. This action is a variation of the Strike Forward Against the Enemy Dynamic, adapted to engage threats on the left side.
Key points:
Keep the blocking arc tight and controlled.
Let the momentum of the block guide the diagonal cut.
Step rhythmically to support the shift in direction.
Dynamic 7: Rightward Diagonal Strike (with Tornado Block)
Continue advancing with alternating steps. This time, use the Tornado Block to defend the right shoulder, sweeping the blade up and outward on your right.
Immediately follow with a diagonal strike from high left to low right, mirroring the previous movement. Though often presented separately in illustrations, both the leftward and rightward strikes are extensions of the same core technique—a forward offensive movement that integrates defense.
Key points:
Stay centered during the block.
Ensure your hips square during the final cut for maximum force.
The motion should feel like a continuous spiral—deflect, step, and strike.
These three forward strikes are excellent drills for not just how to attack, but also seamless transition between directional defense and powerfully aligned offense. Combine these drills with daily training of martial arts essentials and sword basics (check the video’s). By mastering the coordination of footwork, hip alignment, and blade flow, you develop not only technique, but tactical readiness grounded in tradition.
Enjoy the journey and feel free to ask me anything, comment below!
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