FREE-STYLE SPARRING FIGHTING EXERCISES IN SHOTOKAN KARATE PRACTICED IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASSES OF BUCHAREST UNIVERSITY

Abstract

Background. In the fighting exercises with a partner practiced in the previous years of study, the students of the University of Bucharest learned coordination through offensive and defensive pre-determined exercises. Jiyu Kumite, representing another form of training, represents that branch of karate that involves direct free fighting between partners. This form of practice offers a strong attraction for most karate practitioners, but only students who are very well prepared physically and mentally are recommended this type of exercise.
Objectives. Students to be able to manifest at the highest level their motor skill techniques as well as their mental capacity in fighting with one or more partners. The partners must use their most effective techniques and try to make them explode just short of the target. They both must respect the dignity of the other and deserve that respect.
Methods. Lessons with students preparing for Jiyu Kumite will be conducted according to prior proper planning and only intensify progressively. Jiyu Kumite it will not be governed by a fixed set of rules. It will be instead regulated by the conscience of the  participants and always under the control of the mind that one should display the physical, mental and technical values acquired harmoniously trough physical education lessons.
Results. Representing for students the final stage in the hierarchy of karate practice, this category of exercises, practiced accurately, will offer to participants the means for attaining high levels of physical, mental and technical techniques. The students of University of Bucharest will benefit fom this kind of exercise and we hope their progress will be notable.
Conclusion. Jiyu Kumite represents the final stage in the hierarchy of practicing karate techniques in the fight with one or more partners. Without a thorough understanding of the concepts of etiquette, self-control, kamae (specific guard posture), maai (combat distance), kuzushi (imbalance), kake (completion of the technique), tsukuri (preparatory action), and strategy, the karate student cannot practice Jiyu-kumite.