Ataru Shotokan Karate Club (Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire, UK)

Kumite - Sparring (With partner/s, normally just one)
Do not mistake Kumite for 'fighting'. Kumite is a method, used to structure opponent based training and competition which has rules and regulations to it. A fight situation must be considered as something completely different.

From a basic level, Kumite utilises basic techniques (aggressive and defensive) to hone Karateka 'Zanshin' (awareness), reaction, speed, power and accuracy as well as fighting spirit.

At a higher level, free-kumite allows Karateka to utilise all techniques in their repertoire, whilst still adhering to a structure.

Sanbon/Gohon Kumite

In the first instance, Karateka are taught the most basic form of Kumite. Sanbon/Gohon Kumite (Three/Five Step Sparring). This form of sparring is linear in fashion and incorporates Jodan and Chudan Oi-zuki attacks (stepping punch to the chin and stomach areas) as well as their corresponding, basic blocks; Age Uke (rising forearm block) and Soto Uke (outside forearm block).

Ippon Kumite

Ippon Kumite is the next level of sparring after Sanbon/Gohon Kumite. Once again (in the primary instance), Ippon Kumite is linear in fashion, however the techniques used are expanded from just Jodan and Chudan punching, to incorporate (as the level of karateka increases) Mae Geri, Yoko Geri and Mawashi Geri techniques (Front kick, side kick, & roundhouse kick), executed from both left and right sides.

At the lower level the karateka are required to use the basic blocking techniques applicable to their grade and to be strictly linear, with a simple Gyaku Zuki for counter attack. This teaches use of distance, correct target and correct application of technique without allowing the karateka to 'avoid' an attack.

At a higher level (not necessarily for a grading) karateka are taught to utilise 'Tai sabaki' (avoidance/evasion). In conjunction with 'Tai sabaki', various blocks are used to move around opponents in different ways so they can execute a multitude of counter attacks. The counters include multiple strikes, limb locks, pressure point and throws, along with suitable exit lines for safety after applying counters.

Ippon Kumite can also be expanded to use non-standard attacking techniques (Round-house punches, chokes, head-butts etc) to form more of a self-defence structure, whist still conforming to a controlled environment.

Jiyu-Ippon Kumite

COMING SOON

Jiyu Kumite

COMIN SOON