The Kumite Tree

Karate is made up of core training elements known as Kihon (basics), Kata (form) and Kumite. When we hear the term Kumite in karate we think of the four main training types.

Ippon Kumite – one step sparring

Sanbon Kumite three step sparring

Gohon Kumite - five step sparring

Jiyu Kumite. – free fighting

What we don’t often hear about are the other training methods that lead up to Jiyu Kumite, how they are associated and broken down. The following types of kumite below are great for developing the body and mind to deal with a variety of attacking scenarios and any number of attackers.

Kumite consists of two main categories

1. Yakusoku Kumite (Promise sparring) this type of sparring is when the attacking technique and target area are already decided.

2. Jiyu Kumite (Free sparring) This type of sparring is when the karateka are free to attack or defend in any way the wish testing their abilities and boundaries.

Yakusoku Kumite can also be further broken down into three subcategories.

Kumite for building strength and stamina

2. Kumite for learning the correct execution of technique

3. Kumite for mastering the essential elements for actual fighting, these elements consist of timing, distance, body rotation and body shifting.

To discuss even further the first subcategory Tanren Kumite (training sparring) is for building physical strength, developing physical and mental awareness and to help learn stepping techniques that coincide with correct breathing to the level of each karateka.

The second subcategory called Kihon Kumite (basic sparring) puts the emphasis on correct execution of basic techniques and various stances. In both Tanren and Kihon Kumite the attacker and defender will stand facing each other from a set distance and alternate techniques as pre-arranged.

The third subcategory known as Yakusoku Jiyu Kumite (promise free sparring) approaches free sparring with no set distance maintained between attacker and defender. The techniques exchanged are as fast and strong as the stufnets ability will allow.

Yakusoku Kumite allows karateka to study and practice Maai (distance) developing a real understanding for sparring and applying body shifting and rotation.

The final stage Jiyu Kumite is where karateka exchange attacks and blocks without any prearranged movements. Any attack such as punches, strikes or kick used must be controlled and must stop 3cm or 1 ¼ inches before the intended target of teh opponent. This practice is known as (Sun-dome).

Jiyu Kumite can also be divided into two other categories Shiai Kumite (match style sparring) which assumes actual combat and the sports style kumite known as Kyogi Kumite (tournament)

Types of Kumite explained

Oyo Kumite - Applied sparring

Oyo in karate refers to the reason for placement or intended application. It can be seen as the practical application of techniques and movements in real combat situations.

Kumite Gata – Sparring form

Kumite Gata are a series of techniques that have more focus on overcoming and controlling the opponent. The techniques are more towards application as opposed to Kihon kumite. Of course, Kihon kumite now kumite gata are ready to use techniques but clearly there is a different emphasis.

Kiso Kumite – Fundamental sparring

With Kiso kumite the main objective here is to develop well timed reactions and responses. This is achieved first by learning how to control the left and right sides of the body, followed by the hands and feet and then finally by training to develop a real sense of sparring. In Kiso we learn about what body movements are necessary for effectively coordinating a defence or attack.

It is important that you maintain the same distance as your attacker for this training. I.e. if the attacker comes forward you step back the same distance. distance is called Maai (pronounced My)

Blocks and counterattacks must always be executed simultaneously with the movement of the legs.

Kihon Ippon Kumte – Basic one step sparring

Kihon Ippon Kumte is another term for Ippon kumite it is a training method designed to help karateka master a range of basic technical skills, that include Tai Sabaki (body shifting}, dachi (stances) and finally offence and defences abilities.

The main focus is emphasized on breathing, power, posture, technique and spirt.

Kaeshi Ippon Kumite – Attack and counter one step sparring

Kaeshi Ippon Kumite is the next step up from Kihon Ippon Kumite the objectives are the same however this time we adopt a step back, step forwards pattern to the technique. For example, when the attacker steps forward to punch we step back first to block, then we take a step forward with a counterpunch or a kick which is then in return blocked by the attacker by stepping backwards before the attacker completes the technique with a counterattack.

In other words, the person starting is the person that finishes.

Jiyu Ippon Kumite – Free style one step

Jiyu ippon kumite is the Introductory training for Jiyu Kumite. Jiyu Ippon kumite closely approaches the conditions of jiyu kumite, karateka apply physical and mental strength, powerful stances and fundamental technical abilities they have developed through Sanbon and Gohon kumite.

In addition accurate offence, defence techniques and leg movements are acquired through Kihon ippon and kaeshi ippon kumite in Jiyu ippon kumite the leg movements and the body shifting that immediately follow each counter attack are important.

Tanren kumite (training kumite) and Kihon kumite (basic kumite) helps practitioners to develop the fundamental physical strength, posture and range of correct technical abilities required for karate. However, without the correct training or knowledge of (Tai Sabaki) body shifting, (Tenshin) body rotation and Maai, in terms of both timing and available space, training in these types of kumite alone will not prove effective when facing a moving opponent.

Okuri Jiyu Ippon Kumite – Follow through free style one step

Okuri Jiyu Ippon Kumite begins in the same manner as Jiyu ippon kumite but after the initial attack, the attacker freely launches a second assault without pre-announcing the intended target or technique that will be used. The defender after completing the the first counter attack must immediately ready themselves in preparation for a follow up attack. In response to the second attack the defender must also finish with a counter attack.

Defender blocks and counter attacks twice.

Happo Kumite – Eight Directional Sparring

Happo Kumite is an applied form of sparring. Unlike Tanren, Kihon, Yakusoku and Jiyu kumite which involve only a single opponent. Happo kumite is practiced with multiple attackers, each launching attacks free from several attackers or all eight directional points around the defender. The defender must succesfully shift their body to block each oncoming assault and then execute a counterattack.