From http://www.rojodojo.com my 六尺棒術 Rokushakubō Jutsu video exploring 裾落 Suso Otoshi.
We began class with 裾落 Suso Otoshi. I showed the most basic version first. But there are other interpretations, especially of the last ashi barai.
I described each strike with its’ timing and placement. From the first 中段之構 Chūdan no Kamae, to the proper use of the body to deliver each strike. And finally how to stay protected at each angle and distance.
Recently, I pointed out in these notes that the Japanese text for this kata reads, 五 、 左樺先で撥上げ左足払い This clearly suggests that the last ashi barai is more of a haneage. One interpretation of this last strike is to draw back as the swordsman enters, before delivering this last ashi barai. This would be a standard footwork.
Another henka is to hold your position to deliver this last ashi barai. You may do this by assuming a gyaku kamae after the tento uchi. Then, the idea of “suso otoshi” becomes real. The target suggested by the Japanese text is accessible and vulnerable.
The last henka of this ashi barai that we explored is to advance. Here, after the tento uchi, your hands do not regrip the bo. Then the ashi barai comes up and in very quickly as you advance. The REAL danger here is closing distance on the sword. So you must employ concepts of ihen sabaki and totoku to remain shielded.
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