As an example, if you were standing in the middle of a field and focused all your attention on a single flower, you would probably notice every detail of the flower; the size, shape, color, etc. However, you wouldn't know what was going on around you. You probably would not be aware of how blue the sky was or if there was a breeze blowing. Would you notice butterflies fluttering about or the sound of birds chirping? The same is true if you focus only on your opponent's face or eyes. You would miss his hand/shinai movements, body shifting, leg movements, etc.

The concept of metsuke was once described to me as "looking at a distant mountain".- This is called 'enzan-no-metsuke'. Basically, you must see everythi without focusing on any one object. You must see not ountain", but everything between you and the mountain. Similarly, while focusing on your opponent's eyes, observe his entire body.; Where are his eyes looking? Are his eyes alert and focused or is he "day dreaming"? What are his hands doing? Are his hands moving nervously and "playing" with his shinai? Is the tip of his shinai steady and strong or is it moving up and down like a bouncing ball? Is his body firm and steady or is he nervously shifting his weight or position? You must be able to see everything! You must be able to see an opening or opportunity in a moment's time and react instantly. This applies not only offensively, but defensively as well.

Another factor that comes into play and is directly related to metsuke is 'ma-ai'. Ma-ai is the interval or distance between you and your opponent. If your ma-ai is incorrect, your metsuke and resultant action will have been wasted. A cut too shallow or too deep is ineffective and null. Not only do you have to accurately observe your opponent (metsuke) , you have to -accurately judge the distance between you (ma-ai) in order to execute an effective cut.