This is something I’ve been trying to focus on for a couple of classes now. When I find I’m having trouble, I like to go back to the basics.
When we execute a drawing motion, such as for honte-uchi, close attention should be paid to what we do with our weight. This applies not only to executing the techniques in one- and two-man kihon, but in kata as well. If we execute techniques incorrectly during kihon practice, improper execution in kata is almost guaranteed.
Honte-uchi is not the only place this issue exists. It’s everywhere in kihon and in kata.
Let’s start with our normal honte-no-kamae posture.
As we draw back with our hand, it is exceedingly easy to allow our weight to shift into our rear foot. This weight transfer to the back foot requires a weight shift to the front foot before we can move the back foot forward, taking precious time. This photo is slightly exaggerated to demonstrate the weight in the rear foot.
Instead of the weight going back, we should allow our weight to sink straight down. This provides a feeling of stability and structure, as well as being able to move forward or backward. The legs take on a feeling of stored energy much like a compressed spring.