Other Skills: One-Step Sparring

One-Step Sparring Introduction (Ilbo Matsoki)

According to General Choi the utmost objective of Taekwon-Do is to win the victory with a single blow. 

The goal of a quick, decisive victory is also a principle from ancient  history.  An age-old Spartan story illustrates this.  Philip II of Macedon sent a threatening message to Sparta saying, “If I enter Laconia, I will raze Sparta to the ground.”

The Spartan Leader’s response?  A single word.  “IF.”

In fact, a word we use today came from this incident in Laconia where Sparta was located.  The word is “laconic”.  It means to be brief and powerful.  The ancient Spartan warriors applied their power to their swords with quick, cutting strokes.

When practicing one-step sparring, remember the TKD theory of power: decision, speed, power and focus. Decide on your “how” (the defense tool: fist, spear hand, kick, etc.) and focus on the opponent’s vulnerable target area. Then perform your defense with speed and power.  Do this with the overarching objective of disarming your opponent with one, forceful strike.

One step-sparring was developed as a way to help students learn basic and advanced techniques to protect themselves.  One-step sparring mimics real life situations so that students can practice the various techniques learned during class.  As a result, you’ll be able to defend yourself quickly, powerfully, and then escape. 

Below are links to One-Step Sparring Guidelines for the Attacker and the Defender positions.  Also, there is a list of the five one-steps that beginning students should know how to perform during class and for testing.