PREARRANGED SPARRING (Yaksok Matsogi)

This is a set of exercises where the number and sequence of moves is determined beforehand, allowing the student to practice attack and defence techniques in a more controlled environment; helping the student understand the purpose of the movements, to master interaction with the opponent regarding stances and distances, to develop faster reflexes and instantaneous response in self-defence.

SEMI-FREE SPARRING (Ban Jayu Matsogi)

Semi free sparring follows a similar pattern to prearranged sparring, whereby the number of steps to be used is fixed. In basic semi-free sparring, the attacks are specified in advance, whereas for advanced semi-free the attacker is free to perform any attacks they wish. An intermediate version may specify e.g. hand or foot attacks only. In either case the defender has to defend appropriately before performing a counter attack of their choice. While students may initially use simple techniques that they are familiar with from patterns and prearranged sparring, they may also perform any combination of blocks and counters they wish, including jumping techniques, holds and throws, at the appropriate grades. The idea of the exercise is to demonstrate control and mastery of the technique, however; so while techniques may be practiced in training, they should not be used in gradings unless the student can perform them comfortably.

FREE SPARRING (Jayu Matsogi)

Free sparring is not prearranged. There is no prescribed number of steps or movements. It is essentially open combat with controlled attacks using all available means and methods. In order to prevent injury, protective equipment is worn. The teaching of free sparring starts at yellow belt.
Evaluation of free sparring is based on accuracy, speed, timing, distance, and quality of technique executed. Balance, blocking and dodging skills, and attitude are also very important.
Because each of the participants is free to move and attack, free sparring encourages the development of strategies for attack and defence, while improving speed and timing. Since free sparring is practiced as a non-stop fight that may consist of one or more rounds, and vary from short rounds of 30 seconds up to several minutes, being in good physical condition is very important.

ADDITIONAL VARIATIONS

• Students may be asked to perform hands-only (Son Matsogi) or feet-only sparring (Bal Matsogi) to work on specific areas of technique.
• Higher grade students introduce sweeps, holds, joint locks, and take-down techniques into set sparring.
• Higher grade students are required to face more than one opponent. Most commonly, this will be two against one (Idil Matsogi), although advanced students may face three against one (Samdil Matsogi), or even more opponents on occasion.
• Higher grade students are required to demonstrate self-defence techniques (Hosinsul), consisting of releases from holds and locks, and escape from takedown manoeuvres.