Introduction to Cutting Fundamentals

Mastering the kote cut requires understanding every component of the technique, even if the breakdown seems detailed. Internalizing these elements creates natural, fluid movement and efficient striking power that defines quality kendo practice.

Grip and Hand Positioning in Kamae

The shinai rests on the middle finger of the right hand during kamae, creating a lever mechanism for efficient sword movement. The left hand initiates the upward motion by pushing the sword forward slightly to raise the tip, while the right arm follows naturally without pulling backward.

Raising the Sword: Common Errors

Beginners frequently pull with the right arm to raise the sword, a significant technical error. The correct motion requires the left hand to push the sword forward and upward, with both hands maintaining equal extension and position when raised above the head, mirroring the natural kamae posture.

The Forward Descent: Leading with the Left Arm

During the downward motion, the left arm leads the strike by pulling the sword toward the opponent while the right arm remains locked to provide support. Energy must travel forward rather than downward, with the right arm following the sword's trajectory rather than pushing it.

Energy Transfer: The Whip Analogy

Effective cutting employs energy that flows sequentially from the shoulders through the elbows, wrists, and fingers before extending to the blade tip. The motion mirrors a whip's action, with each joint contributing to cumulative force that expels outward rather than downward into the target.

Extension Without Tension

Practitioners should extend their arms fully while avoiding locked joints and shoulder tension, which can cause injury and impede follow-up strikes. A slight bend in the left arm at the conclusion indicates proper pulling mechanics rather than a technical flaw.

Speed Training: Slow and Fast Practice

Slow-speed practice develops awareness of muscle function and movement mechanics, while full-speed repetition eliminates unnecessary tension from the shoulders and back. Both approaches are essential for developing control and the ability to execute multiple consecutive cuts.

Kendo Basics: How to Cut ( swinging your shinai) A breakdown of the kendo technique to cut/strike

Kendo Tips

Kote Cut

2 min read·7 key moments·PT10M6S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Cutting Fundamentals
•Grip and Hand Positioning in Kamae
•Raising the Sword: Common Errors
•The Forward Descent: Leading with the Left Arm

#kendo #kendobasics #howtodokendo I wanted to make this a video breaking down the motions on how to swing the shinai ( sword, Shinken, Iaito) to hopefully make it more effective and safe to prevent injuries. If you are looking to learn how to do kendo, this is a very essential skill, and something that many people end up developing bad habits from. Training to improve your cuts will improve your performance in kendo and help you grow. I hope you find it useful. If you have any questions please leave me a message and I will answer you the best I can or pass live by my kendo stream Sundays 3:30 PM . Don't forget to subscribe and share this video! thank you again for watching. Time stamps 0:00 - Intro 1:32 - holding the sword or shinai 2:17 - Common kendo mistakes =================================================================== If you want to support this channel: https://merch.streamelements.com/kendotips https://streamelements.com/kendotips/tip =================================================================== This is my favorite kendo book: https://amzn.to/3aVk54R Now you can get shinai with Amazon Price: https://amzn.to/3jr9wZM =================================================================== Kendo Basics Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGpbTT0SLh2rH2U4kV3To1y9W6ZEVCz9W =================================================================== About the music: Dance With Me by Ehrling @ehrling Music provided by Free Music for Vlogs youtu.be/pLKxkhtyqN8

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about kote cut?

This video covers introduction to cutting fundamentals, grip and hand positioning in kamae, raising the sword: common errors. It provides detailed instruction from Kendo Tips.

How long does it take to learn kote cut?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.