Free style cutters may come from a martial arts background of all types, or none at all. In essence, freestyle cutting is more similiar to a sport, where it emphasizes performance, technique, and safety standards. Freestyle cutting is also not a substitute for the martial art disciplines.

Freestyle cutters are encouraged to try the Cutting Mechanics Curriculum, which shows designated cutting patterns, to be performed on straw mats. These cutting patterns range from basic cuts to very advanced multi-cuts.

Designated cutting patterns do not require a certain body form or movement, and each person is free to move in whatever fashion they want. The user is free to incorporate techniques learned in their own form of martial arts, as long as they heed safety rules and expectations. If one wants to become an official member of the Cutting Mechanics group, they must perform and pass every single cutting pattern and grade in the Cutting Mechanics Curriculum. In order to advance, one must perform these cuts on a straw mat, record it on film, then post it for our records.

One is not limited to using a certain type of sword and may use a variety of swords which are of Western or Eastern origins, depending upon the sword's characteristics (i.e. Katana, scimitar, broadsword, dao, etc). However, some cutting patterns may be more readily adapted for use with Japanese-style blades. (Grade 4 of the curriculum)

As the cost of certain types of mats may be prohibitive, the type of mats used are also variable. One may choose to cut beach mats, wara, goza, and tatami. Bamboo may also be used, but extreme caution is advised and only more experienced cutters should attempt cutting bamboo.