Kumite or sparring is the partner work which allows the student to apply the techniques learned in kihon and kata against a real opponent. 

There are two types of kumite; Pre-arranged kumite (yakusoku) and free-form kumite (jiyu). 

Pre-arranged partner work is where one opponent has a set attack while the other opponent blocks and counters. 

Pre-arranged kumite consists of one-step, two step, three step sparring, fighting techniques & wrist lock techniques. These various methods of prearranged sparring restrict the student to only one opportunity to demonstrate proper technique, target and distance. 

The attacker learns to make single, explosive attacks and learns to reduce telegraphing the attacks, while the defender learns to recognise incoming attacks and to react accordingly. Pre-arranged kumite is used to develop the principles of timing, shifting, control, distance, decisiveness, posture and ettiquette. 

The more advanced form of kumite is Free Sparring (Jiyu) which allows the students to move freely around the dojo in a free-style posture and stance as opposed to the structured pre-arranged sparring. This teaches the student to recognize opportunities, take advantage of targets presented to them, and react accordingly. 

Advanced students enter Free Sparring with the attitude of “Zanchin - total awareness and martial spirit”. It is important to remember that the definition of kumite is not to fight, but it implies that two or more people are working together, learning from the interaction.

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