Sparring
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Three- Step Sparring (Sambo Matsogi)
This is the initial sparring exercise performed by beginning students usually from 9th kup to 6th kup. These exercises are used to familiarise students with the correct attack and defence techniques utilizing mainly the hand parts against middle and high, with foot parts against low targets while stepping forward and backward.
There are two methods of practice: one way and two way.
One Way (Han Chok)
The attack is executed only while stepping forward, and the defence while stepping backward.
Two Way (Yang Chok)
Both attack and defence are executed while stepping either forward or backward. Both can be practised alone or with a partner.
Two - Step Sparring (Ibo Matsogi)
The main purpose of this sparring is to acquire a mixed technique of hand and foot parts, the attacker, therefore, must use both the hand and the foot alternatively.
It is, however, entirely optional whether the attacker uses the hand or the foot first. As in the case of three step sparring there are two methods of practice.
The attack is executed only while stepping forward and the defence while stepping backward.
Both the attack and defence are executed while stepping either forward or backward.
One - Step Sparring (Ilbo Matsogi)
This sparring is considered to be the most important one from the point of view that the ultimate goal of Taekwon-Do in real combat is to win the victory with just a single blow.
As a matter of fact it is not only exercised at all levels but can also be utilised in a real situation. It is, therefore, advisable for the student to apply all techniques exclusively including counter-attack, flying attack and defence, and dodging attack with hand or foot while flying under various assumptions.
The secret of this sparring is to deliver a completely accurate speedy and decisive blow at the opponents vital spot at the correct time with the correct weapon while effectively defending against the opponents attacks.
Free Sparring
Free sparring is essentially open combat with controlled attacking and prohibition of attacking to certain vital spots. In free sparring there is no pre-arranged mode between opponents, and both participants are completely free to attack and defend with all available means and methods with one exception: The attacker must stop the attacking tool just before reaching the vital spot.
Because Tae Kwon-Do is a lethal form of self-defence, the sparring rules unlike those of other competitive sports count only blows focused within two centemeters of a vital spot, instead of counting the number of ineffective blows or the use of sheer brute strength. In sparring focused blows, speed, power, balance and strong accurate blocking, skillful dodging and attitude are taken into consideration.