Sparring Guidelines & Etiquette

First and foremost, respect needs to be the heart of boxing/kickboxing sparring. Always touch gloves with your partner before and after—it’s about partnership, not rivalry. Follow the guidelines and rules for that session, as set by the coach, and leave your ego outside. Sparring’s for growth, not glory. Keep your strikes controlled, around fifty to seventy percent power, unless told otherwise or agreed upon with each other. Newbies, focus on technique over force. Have a big emphasis on defence more than offence. You need to learn to be comfortable before you can attack or else you will just go into panic mode attacking - i.e. brawling. If you accidentally land a hard shot, check on your partner and apologize—it builds trust and shows you’re not out to murder them.

In open sparring not done in a class format, communication is key. Before you start, agree with your partner on the intensity, like light technical work or something competitive. If you’re feeling off, say, “Can we ease up?” or “I need a moment.” Clear words prevent injuries. Gear up properly—mouthguard, shin guards, gloves, and I strongly recommend a groin guard, too, since accidents can happen and am sure a lot of you guys want to have kids one day. Check your equipment beforehand; worn-out gear can cause issues. Gloves need to be 16oz. Don’t spar if you’re sick, hurt or not feeling 100% in any way; that includes your mental state —it’s not fair to anyone. Match your partner’s skill level. If you’re advanced, guide beginners with controlled moves. If you’re newer, stay calm, focus on one or two techniques, and breathe. Everyone gets better when you work together. Finally, take getting tagged in stride—it’s part of learning. Thank your partner, reflect, and stay positive. Sparring’s a team effort, not a brawl.