A good sparring technique is defense

I competed and won a sparring tournament for PureDefense on Friday, knocking out a 6th degree black belt in Karate.

My approach was simple. Sensei Peacock stresses focusing on defense and proper technique, and I took a cautioned approach. I saved my energy and defended against blocks and kicks, and stepped away from attacks.

By the third round, my opponent was showing signs of fatigue. I took an opening in his defenses and kicked his stomach, and he stumbled down. I am a 6th degree black belt, and this win was a satisfying one.

I transferred to PureDefense from a school that emphasized sparring, but Sensei Peacock has stressed the values of an important defense.

"Peace is a result of defense, sparring is the beginning of a fight. Without else, all else cannot be achieved," Sensei told me after the win.

Competing is fun. You meet new people. If you win, great, if you don't, it's still fun.

When you go to a tournament, take your time to observe tactics of your opponents. Make sure you eat well, sleep well and stretch.

If you have questions on sparring strategies, feel free to talk to Sensei or me. We'd be glad to answer any questions.