Video: Kendo Study: Practice Hiraki Ashi (Moving to the sides) by Kendo Guide (Hiro). Not affiliated with MatRecap; their version may differ from this drill.
Technique recap
Hiraki-ashi steps diagonally to the side, opening an angle to evade and counter. It's the footwork behind nuki-do and other counters.
3 key details
- Step diagonally with the nearer foot.
- Draw the other foot in to re-form kamae.
- Keep facing the opponent.
Your 10-minute home drill
- 2:00Suri-ashi review
- 2:00Hiraki-ashi to the right
- 3:00Hiraki-ashi to the left
- 2:00Hiraki-ashi with do cut
- 1:00Ankle stretch
Safety
Smooth floor.
Instructor disclaimer
Follow your instructor's version. Schools and styles teach this technique differently. This page is general education, not a substitute for qualified instruction.
