Sparring

Sparring, as we teach it, is practice in using the techniques that you have learned. No student will be required to spar if they are not comfortable, though all are encouraged to try. Sparring is supervised, and heavy emphasis is placed on safety.

At beginning levels, sparring is non-contact, and reduced speed. Throws are not allowed. Each student will progress in sparring according to their comfort level. Click here to view sparring rules.

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Push Hands

Push hands (sometimes called "sticking hands") could be considered the Internal version of sparring. Push hands training has many uses. It teaches sensitivity to an opponent's movements. The ability to sense what an opponent is about to do is of great use. It is also good practice in remaining relaxed, and teaches balance and rootedness. Perhaps most importantly, it gives a student experience with a vast number of possible attacks and defenses. Push hands is practiced slowly in order to give the student time to examine and recognize an attack, and to attempt to defend accordingly, or vice versa.