Overhead (downward) Cuts · Kenjutsu Online

Overhead (downward) Cuts

In the overhead cuts performed in standing kata or practice does the blade cut through and rest at the level of my navel? I think I am swinging past that which leads to some unbalancing and possibly arm/shoulder strain.. In watching traditional Japanese kata (the standing ones #5 to 12(?), for the most part overhead cuts along diagonal or directly overhead appear to come to rest with a parallel blade at the level of the navel, while other upward motion cuts more or less rest a little over one’s head. I’m sure this is flexible in actual combat where levels are dictated by how large the opponent is and what part of the anatomy you hope to render inoperable.

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