Point sparring

[twtguy]

Can you tell me of some advantages and disadvantages of point sparring rather than full-contact sparring?

[tkd_person89]

I can only speak of TKD point sparring. I don't know about any other arts that do point sparring.

Advantages:

1. In TKD, regardless of point sparrer or non-point sparrer, a good TKD practitioner will usually be a great kicker and have great kicking technique.

2. Point sparring develops good timing, footwork, power, reflexes, and speed.

3. Point sparring also develops a good sense of strategy and what to anticipate out of your opponents.

Disadvantages:

1. Just not real enough. Plain and simple as that.

2. Not enough target areas. Leg shots are not allowed.

3. Punches are now scored but still only body punches are allowed.

4. Even with punching allowed, there won't be ENOUGH punching.

5. No risk of your opponent trying to grapple or throw or pin you.

[Eyegouge]

advantages: speed. effectiant combonations.

Disadvantages: everything but the two advantages.

[tkd_person89]

Please define for us "everythign else but those two"

Do you disagree with any of my statements?

[Eyegouge]

not really, um when i started twin dragon kempo we did point contact sparing and the target area was the same as in a boxing match. punching or kicking someone in the face was allowed. I do full contact now, but thats only beacuse i begged my instructor to change it.

[twtguy]

Thanks guys. You really summed it all up.