Kumite essentially means spirited fighting. In Karate, kumite can mean anything from prearranged applications of technique to contact sparring with a partner. A student may drill sequences performed with a partner to create good repetitions and to study proper form. Full or limited contact sparring for competition or training reasons introduces an important realty to the training. Kumite in all these instances is the opportunity for students to hone technical applications in real time.
At IOK we know the bottom line for many is to learn how to defend oneself and how to fight if necessary. There are many systems designed to teach people how to win fights. The opinions people offer on any one of these systems are unending and most often not very helpful at all. The “What if…” scenarios are fun to discuss and helpful in the sense they encourage a thinking person. However IOK’s philosophy is predicated on an unwavering premise that the best advantage comes from training technical skills.
One can be born tough, big, fast or strong but becoming a technician is to make the most of natural talents and tendencies. IOK’s teachers are Personal Trainers. Our black belt ranks and affiliates run the gamut, including senior students with decades in one or more of the martial arts, former wrestlers, boxers and other contact sport athletes, tournament fighters, bouncers, law enforcement personnel and ex-military personnel. Kumite helps our students develop skills they can use and rely on. Its also the really fun part for many as evidenced by the popularity of IOK’s designated Sparring Classes and related Seminars.
Friday Night Sparring Drills:
Focus is on personal technique and drills to benefit timing, distancing and legwork. We always end with several rounds of limited contact sparring for cardio and FUN. Schedule varies. See Billy G for more info.
Sunday Fighting with Mike Degiso:
Don’t miss the chance to get some real life fighting work in with Mike Degiso. A handful of IOK’s younger Black Belts tend to flock to this class for a tune-up every week. Mike’s experience is broad and he is currently cross training with local professional fighters who’s names you might now. An eye-opening, physical class for anyone who wants to step up their training. Call or email IOK for current schedule.
