Also look at the less visible hand
Hikite commonly refers to the action of the hand withdrawing in a basic exercise. Instead of looking only at the advancing fist, observe where the other hand starts, its path, and when it arrives. Its final position depends on the technique and the instructions. A hand returned to the hip does not, by itself, prove that the two arms worked together.
Distinguish between study form and custody
The kihon can accentuate certain paths to make learning readable. With a partner, the hands must respond to the situation and the framework of the exchange. Automatically copying the shape of an exercise on the spot in all situations can leave an important task unanswered. Ask which hand protects, prepares or accompanies the action in the proposed work. The roles are not deduced from a single rule for the entire practice.
A function is discussed in a scenario
In bunkai, certain passages give rise to readings where one hand acts on a contact while the other accomplishes another task. These readings remain hypotheses to be described, not evidence of the historical intent of kata. Specify the starting point, cooperation and limits of the exercise. Do not transform this observation into a sudden pull: manipulations and contact are regulated with the teacher.
A simple criterion for kihon
At slow speed, check if the second hand follows the requested path or stops before the end. Then compare the same movement in a sequence. A defect that only appears after a transition perhaps requires working on this connection rather than adding isolated repetitions. Look for descriptive feedback, such as “this hand starts after the other,” before deciding on a correction.
Check understanding
Should the back hand always return to the hip?
See answer
The answer depends on the exercise. A form of kihon does not impose identical custody in all situations.