The Tenets of TaeKwonDo
take on a new significance in free sparring.

HONOR

Maintain your dignity even if fighting a superior opponent. Do not make excuses or express displeasure or disappointment. Although we are not always pleased with the outcome of a match, we must remember to maintain honor.

COURTESY

Always be courteous to your partner. This includes but is not limited to . . .

• Bowing before sparring
• Letting the higher ranking partner throw the first technique and set the pace of the round
• Demonstrating proper control of techniques during the round
• Not kicking or hitting illegal targets, or kicking or hitting too hard

INTEGRITY

Understand your rank and ability and that of your partner and govern your actions while sparring accordingly.

PERSERVERANCE

It takes time, sometimes years, to become a "good" free sparrer. Do not expect this overnight. Remain dedicated and you WILL improve — at your own pace.

SELF-CONTROL

DO NOT get mad, angry, or frustrated.

DO NOT make excessive contact.

DO breathe properly & relax while sparring — otherwise you will tire quickly.

COURAGE

It takes tremendous COURAGE to come as far as you already have.

COMMUNITY

Remember, you are responsible for your partner’s safety, as well as your own. Try to make sparring an enjoyable experience for all participants and spectators!

* This information is from the ITA Student Manual. Consult your manual for further information!