An Introduction to Kumite
Having achieved your Yellow belt green stripe, you are not only introduced
to kata, you are also permitted to commence your journey into kumite. In short, kumite is where we take the techniques and principles learned in the dojo and practice them against an opponent.
Kumite is not compulsory for Yellow belts with a Green Stripe. Those who choose to take part are often introduced gradually, working on pre-arranged techniques or free sparring at a slow pace. To ensure participant safety, approved safety equipment such as hand mitts, leg pads, mouth guard, chest guard (girls) and groin guard (boys) may be worn.
Free-style sparring is perhaps the best way to work on your timing, gauging distances and your reflexes. There are
as many different styles and theories of fighting as there are students. To find an approach that works well for you
consider your size, flexibility, speed and strength. These factors dictate the techniques you can add to your arsenal.
* Practice various combinations and moves repeatedly in the dojo and at home, is a place to learn
* Don’t think having a point scored on you is a bad thing – it’s actually a learning opportunity
* Check your ego at the door
* Contact in sparring is inevitable and encouraged if it is done properly
* Adjust your level and intensity according to the size and ability of your partner. For instance, higher belts
should spar at a level just above where the lower belt is fighting.
* At lower belt levels, there is no contact allowed to the head
* It is best to pull your kicks and punches short of contact to the body
* At higher belt levels, body contact is required (with limited contact to the head but never to the face)
* Always strike with total commitment
* Maintain a calm mind
* See through your opponent’s moves
Some of the general rules regarding kumite include:
* Never practice kumite without an instructor present. Do not ask a high rank for kumite. On the other hand, if
asked by a higher rank, do not refuse.
* Show respect for the rank. When practicing against a black belt, if you can go harder, do so but understand
they have your rank in mind and are therefore not fighting their hardest.
to kata, you are also permitted to commence your journey into kumite. In short, kumite is where we take the techniques and principles learned in the dojo and practice them against an opponent.
Kumite is not compulsory for Yellow belts with a Green Stripe. Those who choose to take part are often introduced gradually, working on pre-arranged techniques or free sparring at a slow pace. To ensure participant safety, approved safety equipment such as hand mitts, leg pads, mouth guard, chest guard (girls) and groin guard (boys) may be worn.
Free-style sparring is perhaps the best way to work on your timing, gauging distances and your reflexes. There are
as many different styles and theories of fighting as there are students. To find an approach that works well for you
consider your size, flexibility, speed and strength. These factors dictate the techniques you can add to your arsenal.
* Practice various combinations and moves repeatedly in the dojo and at home, is a place to learn
* Don’t think having a point scored on you is a bad thing – it’s actually a learning opportunity
* Check your ego at the door
* Contact in sparring is inevitable and encouraged if it is done properly
* Adjust your level and intensity according to the size and ability of your partner. For instance, higher belts
should spar at a level just above where the lower belt is fighting.
* At lower belt levels, there is no contact allowed to the head
* It is best to pull your kicks and punches short of contact to the body
* At higher belt levels, body contact is required (with limited contact to the head but never to the face)
* Always strike with total commitment
* Maintain a calm mind
* See through your opponent’s moves
Some of the general rules regarding kumite include:
* Never practice kumite without an instructor present. Do not ask a high rank for kumite. On the other hand, if
asked by a higher rank, do not refuse.
* Show respect for the rank. When practicing against a black belt, if you can go harder, do so but understand
they have your rank in mind and are therefore not fighting their hardest.
