These are used to stab an opponent while defending yourself. We practice quick simple steps both forwards and backwards in these guards focusing on keeping the front toe and both heels in a line pointed at the far wall.

After that we practice catching an opponent's sword with the Strong and following it up with a stab.  Against Underhaw (hews from beneath) bending the knees into a squatlike position and bending at the waist with arms extended towards the strike protects the hands.  Typically fencers will stand in Plow and move to Ox at the last moment to defend against attacks from above (otherwise you arms may get tired).

Finally we have a drill where each student takes turns standing in the middle of a circle and has to parry and stab against each other student one at a time.