Japanese chef practising knife skills
Knife Education

The Japanese Cutting Stance

by Adam Dodd on Jan 07, 2022

Japanese Knife Skills: Proper Stance and Cutting Position

Learning proper knife technique starts with your stance and positioning. A stable cutting board, comfortable body position and balanced foot placement can help you work with greater control in the kitchen.

japanese chef, sushi, knife

This guide introduces the basic standing position used when preparing food with a Japanese kitchen knife.

1. Set Up Your Cutting Board

Place your cutting board  on a level, stable surface. If the board moves while cutting, place a damp tea towel underneath to help reduce slipping.

Wooden and plastic cutting boards are generally suitable for kitchen knives. Avoid hard surfaces such as glass or metal, which can dull the blade.

2. Position Yourself Correctly

Stand a comfortable distance from the cutting board. The original guide recommends approximately 3 inches, but your position should allow you to work naturally without leaning too close or standing too far away.

Keep your body balanced and maintain control of the knife throughout each movement.

3. Place Your Feet

Your foot position can help support balance while cutting. Place your dominant foot approximately half a step behind the other foot, adjusting your stance for comfort and stability.

Practise this position with slow, controlled movements before increasing your cutting speed.

Final Thoughts

A stable cutting board and comfortable stance are important foundations for developing Japanese knife skills. With regular practice and safe handling, you can improve your control and confidence in the kitchen.

Explore our collection of kitchen knives  to find a knife that suits your cooking needs.

Tags: knife, knife education, sushi
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