Sparring is the use of the art in a controlled situation.

Using the punches, strikes and kicks to combat your opponent.

Sparring is an important part of the training. You can hit pads as hard and for as long as you like, but nothing beats defending and attacking a moving opponent who is also trying to attack you.

At beginner level sparring is taught is a sequenced method to allow the student to gain control and confidence.

From intermediate level every student is graded / tested on their sparring ability all the way to black belt and beyond.

Also, all grades spar together in an open forum to accelerate their learning expertise. As Essex Tae Kwon Do Academy has a good reputation for producing excellent fighters who compete in the tournament circuit.

(Please not it is not compulsory for students to enter competitions in the sparring event as they may wish to excel in other parts of the art.)

Sparring is done at a semi contact level. This means LIGHT contact. It takes greater skill to use semi contact impact than full contact.

The aim is to train and perfect, not damage people. As we all have to go to school, college or work the next day.

Therefore all sparring is done with the use of safety equipment. Opponents wear semi contact gloves, foot pads, shin pads, headguards etc.to reduce the risk of injury when mistakes happen.