Karate Kumite Overview
On this page you can find anything related to the subject Kumite. Literally translated is means “meeting of the hands” and refers to sparring. There is structured kumite (Yakusoku – pre-arranged) and free sparring such as (Jiyu Kumite) as well as Randori.
In Yakusoku Kumite two or more opponents perform an arranged or choreographed series of techniques with one striking while the other blocks. The form ends with a counter – a devastating technique (Hito Tsuki) and finishing blow.
In Jiyu Kumite, participants have free choice of techniques and are awarded points or scores. Jiyu Kumite is usually supervised by a referee or instructor. The allowed techniques as well as the level of contact are primarily determined by either the federation policies or by the instructor. Rules usually are also modified depending on age, rank and sex of the participants.
Randori, another form of free sparring Kumite is usually done without awarding scores or points and therefore has different rules.
Sports karate such as WKF Kumite has different rules than many of the more traditional Karate federations such as for example JKA Karate.
The Kihon Kumite Forms
Gohon Kumite
Before starting with free sparring you learn Gohon Kumite. What is it all about? Click here to learn more.
Gohon Kumite Videos
How is Gohon Kumite supposed to look like? Watch some videos here to get inspired.
Sanbon Kumite
Sanbon Kumite - the progression of Gohon Kumite. Learn more by clicking here.
Sanbon Kumite Videos
Watch some Sanbon Kumite Videos to get familiar with this form of partner training.
Kihon Ippon Kumite
Learn the next form up - Kihon Ippon Kumite.
Kihon Ippon Kumite Videos
Watch our videos about Kihon Ippon Kumite
Kihon Ippon Kumite (Freestyle)
Let's have some fun with Kihon Ippon Kumite and let's change it up a little bit. Get some ideas on this page.
Jiyu Ippon Kumite (semi free)
Jiyu Ippon Kumite - also called semi free sparring is the last form of partner training before free sparring.
Jiyu Ippon Kumite Videos
Watch our videos about Jiyu Ippon Kumite. Speed, precision, kime and a good fighting spirit are essential for this Kumite form.
Jiyu Kumite
Free sparring - let us begin....
Other Partner Training Forms
Kaichi Ippon Kumite
Before starting with free sparring you learn Gohon Kumite. What is it all about? Click here to learn more.
Happo Kumite
How is Gohon Kumite supposed to look like? Watch some videos here to get inspired.
Ichikoma Kumite
Sanbon Kumite - the progression of Gohon Kumite. Learn more by clicking here.
Kabe Kumite
This Kumite form is a great way to prepare for competition and to strengthen your commitment and spirit.
Tactical Behavior
Go no Sen, Sen no Sen, Sen Sen no Sen
Learn tactical behavior and how to take the initiative in the offense or defense. Get a better understanding and improve your Kumite.
Maai (Timing & Distance)
Your understanding of Timing & Distance is key to Kumite. Learn the details here.
Timing Exercises (Timing & Distance)
Your understanding of Timing & Distance is key to Kumite. Sharpen your timing with the help of some of these videos.
Distance Exercises (Timing & Distance)
Your understanding of Timing & Distance is key to Kumite. Sharpen your distancing with the help of some of these videos.
Set Up
Setting up the opponent during Kumite.
Positioning towards the Opponent
How do you position yourself towards the opponent. Learn what and how to do it here.
Kamae
Defensive positioning - a good Kamae is the best defense.
Zanshin
NEVER drop your focus - not before, not during and not after... Zanshin is key.
Feinting
Trick your opponent and use feinting. Get some ideas on this page.
Mental & Physical Pressure
Your mental game is as important than your technique. Actually it might be even more important than you think. Learn to control your mental game. Continue on to this page.
Kumite Tactics
(Foot Techniques & Free Sparring)
Get ideas on how to move to set up your techniques.
Throws & Takedowns
Throws
If you want to score big, you must learn throws.
Takedowns
Improve your footwork and your Kumite with some of these footwork drills.
Sweeping
Sweeping Exercises
Practice your sweeping with these basic exercises.
Sweeping Videos #01
Watch these videos on how to seep.
Sweeping Videos #02
Get inspired by a second set of videos on sweeping.
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