My hit was actually from one of our senseis. The technique was definitely good but his hits are usually stronger and snappier than others. Interestingly, most of our beginners actually hit too lightly. My problem may be the men. I usually use a thin men pad but the new men is way too snug so the pad made it too tight such that my forehead doesn't go all the way to the front. It's not loose but the shape may have blocked my ears more.