Combination Sparring Rules
FREE SPARRING
In Free Sparring, partners are not restricted by a set pattern of movements like One-steps or Sparring Combinations. Free Sparring allows students to test their skills against each other and encourages students to implement the skills and techniques practiced in class. All Green Belts and above practice Free Sparring in class, tournaments, and testings.
RULES OF ENGAGEMENT
Note: The rules of Sparring are identical to that of Sparring Combinations. The only difference is that in free sparring, students are no longer restricted by a set pattern of movements.
- Sparring should never be attempted without direct supervision of an Instructor and only red, Taekwondo America brand gear may be used. This includes hand gear, foot gear, head gear, guards, shin guard elbow pads, a mouthpiece, and for male a groin protector.
- Before each match, the partners should bow and touch gloves. This is a show of respect and courtesy and indicates both partners are ready to begin.
- While sparring stances vary greatly, most follow the following principles:
1. Hands are up around the chin. This makes blocking techniques to the head much easier.
2. The body is turned sideways. This limits the surface area that is exposed to the opponent
3. Light on your feet. This makes it easier to move and evade incoming techniques.
4. Eyes on your partner.
- Light contact is acceptable and encouraged. Impact, striking forcefully which may result in injury, is not allowed and should be immediately addressed by the partners or instructors. If the level of control is exceeded, apologize sincerely and immediately.
- Legal target areas are the chest, above the belt, and the headgear. Which may be struck with either the hands or feet.
- Striking with the knees or elbows is prohibited. Any contact to the throat, face, back or below the belt is strictly prohibited. Sweeps, takedowns, grabbing and grappling are also prohibited.
- Sparring may be stopped at any time by either partner for any reason and is signaled by holding up both of their hands.
- Never continue sparring if either partner is injured or can no longer defend themselves.
- At the end of each match, the partners should again bow and touch gloves.
What Parents Are Saying
“You can see the high standards she sets in the attitudes, discipline, and proficiency of her students. If you are looking for a martial arts school in Mandeville, then Northshore Taekwondo is your best choice.”
— Jack L.
“My daughter loves Northshore Taekwondo. She goes there 5 nights a week and loves every minute of it. Miss Haydel is an amazing teacher with the patience of a saint!!”
— Rachel E.