Kumite

Kumite is the sparring element of karate in which the various blocks, strikes, punches and kicks are practiced with a partner. It is an important part of training in that in time should develop to such an extent (within the boundaries of control and the limitations this will undoubtedly place on it) that it will be the closest one will come to a real life confrontation.

The sparring comes in a number of forms from pre-arranged sets of attacks and blocks to freestyle fighting, which as the name implies allows for the use of any technique. The types of kumite are as follows:

Gohon Kumite - 5-attack sparring
Kihon Ippon Kumite - 1-attack sparring (comes in 5 sets)
Sanbon Kumite - 3-step attack (jodan, chudan and mae-geri)
Kaeshi Ippon Kumite - returning defence and attack
Shin Gohon Kumite - 5-attack sparring moving at angles instead of straight back
Jiyu Ippon Kumite - semi freestyle attacks and defence (comes in 8 sets)
Okuri Jiyu Ippon Kumite - semi freestyle attacks and defence with a free second attack
Freestyle Kumite - use of any defensive and attacking technique (some dangerous exceptions)