Sparring Overview
The American Institute of Kenpo (AIK) ensures a secure learning environment for students to engage in supervised, rank-appropriate sparring activities that enhance their martial arts proficiency. To maintain a safe learning atmosphere, AIK mandates that students possess the appropriate safety equipment for participation.
Required Sparring Gear
Note: Standard AIK Sparing Gear prices are available in the School Shop.
1. Head Gear
The head gear offers enhanced protection against accidental head impacts.
2. Mouth Guard & Case
Preventing dental emergencies is crucial. The mouth guard provides additional protection against accidental impacts that could cause tooth damage. The mouth guard case ensures sanitary transportation and storage of the mouthpiece.
3. Chest Guard
The chest and abdomen are vulnerable during sparring. The chest protector absorbs moderately light and controlled strikes.
4. Cup & Supporter
The groin protection provides a barrier of safety against controlled and targeted light strikes.
5. Hand Gear
The hand gear offers protection during controlled strikes in a sparring environment.
6. Shin Guards
Shin guards protect both the wearer’s shin and the recipient of light and controlled strikes.
7. Foot Gear
Foot gear mitigates against improperly thrown kicks. This protection is most effective at light contact levels when executed with control.
8. Gear Bag
A gear bag is essential for organized transportation of all gear.
Sparring Expectations
Safety First
The American Institute of Kenpo (AIK) staff will diligently verify that students are appropriately attired in the necessary sparring gear for their safety. However, students who choose to participate in sparring activities without the required equipment assume sole responsibility for their decision. Our instructors strongly emphasize the importance of prioritizing safety. We kindly request that all students prioritize their safety and wear all the mandated safety equipment when engaging in sparring activities.
Respect Your Partners
Martial arts practitioners of diverse ages, sizes, and abilities participate in sparring. It is paramount to respect your partner’s well-being at all times.
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Martial arts sparring should maintain a safe and comfortable level of power for both participants.
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The engagement speed should be controlled, ensuring that neither participant is overwhelmed.
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Skills and knowledge should be shared to facilitate the advancement of less experienced individuals.
Total Self-Control
Maintaining control over one’s mind, body, and emotions is crucial during sparring. Should any student’s mental, physical, or emotional state become compromised, they should seek assistance from the instructing staff before continuing to participate.
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The foundation of strategy is meticulously formulated, reevaluated, and refined in the mind. During sparring, it is essential to maintain a clear and focused mind to enhance one’s skills.
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The body should be functioning optimally to prevent injuries. Focus should be directed towards developing controlled, intentional actions executed in a manner that ensures the sound physical health of all participants throughout the sparring activities.
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Maintaining emotional control can be particularly difficult for novices. During sparring activities, all students should prioritize emotional regulation to ensure a positive, productive, and safe environment.
Note: To safeguard the safety of all students, individuals who fail to meet these expectations may be requested to refrain from participating in sparring activities.