There are lots of different elements to karate training.
You need to learn the fundamentals, work on your form, practice the kata (karate strikes and movements performed in a sequence), and you can take part in sparring to practice the moves in a combat situation.
If you are interested in learning karate or you are a beginner and have not long started classes then you might be wondering what the difference is between sparring and fighting.
Sparring looks a lot like a competitive match, but how does it differ?
We have put together this useful guide to explain the difference between sparring and fighting to help you understand. Keep reading to find out more.
What Is Sparring?
Sparring is a form of practice which allows students to practice the movements they have learned against another person.
It gives you the opportunity to test out the striking movements as well as the defensive ones, as the other person will also be trying to attack you.
Beginners won’t start sparring until their teacher thinks they are ready.
You will then be partnered up with someone and guided through your first sparring session, as it can be quite daunting if you have never been involved in any kind of combat before.
You can expect to take a few hits, which is an important part of the training as it makes you more resilient.
As you become more skilled, the sparring sessions will get more intense.
Different teachers will have their own rules when it comes to sparring about where you are allowed to hit your opponent.
Some classes ban facial strikes during sparring, or they may have other rules that you need to follow. Your teacher should explain it all for you.
The goal is not to knock out your opponent, but to practice reacting to a realistic fighting situation.
Sparring can be very intense but it is not as aggressive as a real fight.
What Is Fighting?
A competitive karate fight will take place in some kind of tournament.
You will be less familiar with your opponent as they could be from a different class or a different area entirely.
You may also be fighting against people within your class as part of your assessment to progress through the belts.
A fight is usually split into rounds that are 3 to 4 minutes long. Every strike scores points and scores can be deducted for breaking the rules.
You could also be disqualified for certain things so you need to make sure that you are aware of the rules before you start.
You win the fight by knocking out your opponent or by gaining an 8 point advantage.
You don’t hold anything back in a real karate fight – the goal is to win so as long as you follow the rules of the sport then you need to do everything you can to beat your opponent.
Good technique will not be enough. You have to be reactive to your enemies’ attacks and try to stay one step ahead of them, anticipating their strikes.
You also need to be proactive and strategic, combining strikes and blocks to get the upper hand. It is an adrenaline filled experience but you must remain focused.
Your first fight will probably be quite overwhelming, but you will gradually become accustomed to it.
You must treat everyone with respect during the tournament, as respect and integrity is an important part of karate.
All karate students and masters are part of a wider community, and the mental discipline is just as important as the physical skills that you learn.
Why Is Sparring So Important?
Sparring is a vital part of karate training because it helps to improve your confidence.
There is a big difference between learning the moves and practicing them on a punch bag and then using them in a fight.
Sparring helps to bridge the gap and prepare you for what is to come. Sparring also helps you learn to control your thoughts in a high pressure situation.
Even though sparring isn’t a real fight, it can still get very intense.
You will learn to remain focused, to bounce back from strikes and quickly regain composure to continue fighting, and to keep your head clear and calm.
This will make you a better fighter. Sparring also helps to build up your fitness.
You will need stamina to win a fight, as there are several rounds and it can be very tiring.
Regular sparring will help to prepare your body and improve your endurance ready for a tournament or a competition.
Types Of Karate Sparring
There are many different types of karate sparring with different purposes. Here are some of the most commonly used ones:
Kihon Kumite
This is used to help you practice switching from one movement or strike to another. This is one of the first skills you need to learn in order to transition from basic training to fighting.
You will practice shifting your weight from a punching stance to a kicking stance, and how to block a strike whilst you are transitioning between movements.
You also learn how to respond to strikes and improve your reaction and recovery time. You may be assigned roles as the attacker and the defender.
Jissen Kumite
This is no-pad fighting where you learn how to deliver and receive full contact strikes. This helps to build strength and stamina and prepare you for a real fight.
However, you are not allowed to strike the face, the groin or the knees. You can expect to be injured during this kind of sparring, but this teaches you resilience.
Jiyu Kumite
This is a free fight’ with very few restrictions. You can use whatever techniques you choose and there are no assigned roles. This is very similar to a real fight.
Summary
Sparring looks a lot like fighting but it is quite different. It is a way to practice for a real fight and to prepare your mind and body.
It is a very important part of karate training.
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