The Sparring Experience

Every student approaches sparring with different emotions. Some students are excited about finally putting into action the techniques they have learned with a moving, thinking partner who is also kicking and striking back. Some students are apprehensive, and a few are outright scared. These are all normal reactions that you may experience. My job is to curb excitement and alleviate fears through proper coaching.

With proper training, even the most timid student can reach a stage where the notion of sparring no longer brings on a panic attack. A diligent student will realize that there is an important lesson to be gained here. By learning to overcome your fears, you advance not only as a martial artist but also as a person.

Stages of Learning Free Sparring

The first stage: Before you engage in Free Sparring, you will have been practicing for a couple of months and will have learned fundamental blocking, striking, and kicking techniques as well as basic combinations and footwork patterns.

The second stage: You will exchange techniques with various partners while wearing protective equipment to get you used to donning gear. Techniques are first practiced slowly, and the pace and force are gradually increased as you gain confidence and skill.

The third stage: This is when you actually engage in unrehearsed Free Sparring with a partner. Typically, new students are paired to spar with more advanced students. Advanced students can control their techniques and encourage new students as they gain confidence and build experience. In time, you will be looking forward to sparring classes and will come to learn that the occasional knock and bruise are part of  progressing in the art. Who knows? Down the road you may even develop a taste for Sanda or San Shou.