Training Drills

Here is a summary of what we trained last weekend and what we hope to use as the foundation of core drills going forward. The names of the drills are not canonical, they're just my descriptions.

1. Exchanges (fixed step) - each person takes turns attacking the opponent's head or shoulders. Avoid getting hit by rocking backwards on your stance. Do not step or touch swords. After avoiding an attack, riposte at your opponent's head or shoulders. Keep your balance. Do not lean or duck.
2. Exchanges - with lifting
3. Exchanges (following step)
4. Big Dipper/Swallow Skims the Water drill
5. Sword catching (four corners) - trade attacks to each ear and each hip/knee. When an attack comes, catch in the cavity of the forte and guard, then riposte with a cut or a thrust.