I was working with my beginner students on sparring segments. They don’t actually spar yet, they are learning timing, control, and distance. We were working on the combination: backfist, punch, round kick. I had them practice on the heavy bags and I even put on sparring gear and let them use me!
They could do the moves, but it just wasn’t fluid. That’s when I got out the hand targets. I put one on each hand and had them connect with the target. As they got more confident, I moved backward, sideways, or forward, forcing them to adjust to meet the target. It was great! I tried it again, only I “hid” the target behind my back and they couldn’t strike until I brought it forward. I really saw a difference in my kids. They are starting to watch for openings.
Well, that was my Monday night. I would love to hear other ideas and drills. What are you doing and what equipment are you using to help with beginning sparring?
~Julie
