Gyakute-tsuki translates as ‘reverse hand poke.’ This is the fifth of the twelve basic Seitei Jodo skills that are learned and practiced. The goal here is to demonstrate how to convert what looks like a standard strike into a poke coming down into the target.
- 1. What is being demonstrated? Turning a simple raising action into a poke.
- 2. What is the intended target? The solar plexus.
- 3. What is the starting stance? Honte-uchi-no-kamae.
- 4. What is the very first move? Raise as if to strike.
- 5. What is the required footwork? Step while poking, step while striking. (Can be varied.)
- 6. What is the required handwork? Hands sliding to each end of the jo before poking (and striking).