48. Sparring Safety and Etiquette

Sparring

Sparring is light fighting wearing protective equipment.

It is where you get to try your martial arts techniques against an opponent in a safe

way.

You must wear the correct Cobra safety approved protective gear to spar (ask for a list at reception):

• A mouthguard

• Correct weight gloves for your age

• Shin protectors

• Groin protector for males

  
  

That’s your armour! Even the best warriors in the world wear gear to protect

themselves.

Listen to your instructor. Follow their instructions. If they say slow down, you must slow down. If they stop the round, you must stop. No arguing, no questions—just respect.

Light contact means light contact. Our sparring is light contact also known as semi-contact. We’re here to learn techniques and self-defence, not injure each other. For your safety that means:

• Light touch contact only

• No head contact for kids

• No takedowns

• No wild punches or kicks

• If you accidentally go too hard, say sorry and reset

Sparring is like playing catch. You don’t throw the ball to hurt someone.

If you get hit harder than you like, or are hurt or scared, STOP, speak up, never be embarrassed to stand up for yourself or what is right:

• “That was too hard.”

• “I’m going to sit this round out” (if your partner is going to hard or breaking the

• sparring rules)

• Or just say stop and raise your hand to talk to an instructor.

You’re brave for speaking up

After each round say something to your partner such as:

• “Thanks!” or

• “Great round!”

• "Good sparring" or

• “Sorry if that one hit too hard!”

Cobra Martial Arts & Fitness Centres - Personal Development Program - 1991.