Types of Sparring...

In Tae Kwon-do there are many types of sparring. These are mainly set for you to progress slowly and clearly. In Tae Kwon-do you will come across different types of sparring:

Three Step Sparring
Two Step Sparring
One Step Sparring
Semi Free Sparring
Free Sparring
Three Step Sparring is the first official sparring you will encounter. This type of sparring teaches the student to practise:

Timing
Distance
Focus
Correct blocking techniques
Correct Stances
To Counter Attack
Two Step Sparring is usually practised by an intermediate student. More advanced techniques are used whilst still applying timing and distance. The attacker always begins from right L-stance and forearm guarding block and the defender from parallel ready stance.

One Step Sparring is practised at a more advanced grade (Blue Belt 4 Kup). It is a more realistic form of set sparring and the closest to a real self defence situation. The defence against attack is down to the student's choice and requires a greater use of focus, timing, speed and reaction to create an effective technique.

The student can also apply:

Take down techniques
Lock and hold/submission techniques
Joint breaking techniques
Semi Free Sparring is a further development of 3 step sparring which involves 3 attacks against an opponent (kicks and hand attacks) The defender blocks and counter attacks.

Free Sparring involves the exchange of techniques between 2 students wearing full safety equipment to avoid any risk of injury. The student should be able to to demonstrate control, speed, footwork, defence and attack techniques.