Smoke

This is why we close in the gap of self-defense and "illegal in matches" by practicing the most realistic form of kumite. Unfortunately, we all can't fight like in the Sabaki Challenge or like MMA but I believe sparring is an important aspect for self-defense. If you practice self-defense in lieu of sparring, I'm fearing your training may be for nothing almost. In class you have all the time in the world to do the counter wrist grab, counter choke, etc. and you can say "Wait, let me try that again" in class. Are you going to say that to the person holding a knife to your throat, or someone about to tackle you? This is why, practicing self-defense against a very non-compliant partner is important because it gives the feel of realistic training. In sparring, getting hit lets you know what pain is like. Unfortunately in Kyokushin Karate, no punching to the head is allowed, but our teacher is an avid boxing fan and occasionally has us train in boxing and to add, I do boxing at college. Ever get hit in the head? It sure destroys your timing and your attack plan. Sparring also teaches a person to be aggressive. I hope when you have that adrenaline pumping on the street like in class, you know what to do with it. Trust me, getting attacked by a flurry of punches and kicks sure changes the outcome of your self-defense moves your sensei taught you.

Yeah, same here. I don't know this site's standing on heated debates. I've tried pressure points on resistant people, not a good idea.

I believe there is a difference between full contact and bare knuckle. Full contact is kind of a misnomer. Full meaning 100% or full force would suggest you're trained to attack 100% most of the time, or at least practice that way a lot. I believe bare knuckle fighting doesn't mean you fight full contact. I know many boxers and grapplers that fight more "full contact" than us Kyokushin fighters.

Sigh... I have to agree with you. Every school has their curriculum. We all don't use the same ruler to measure what is a black belt, and what isn't. There is no universal term/definition for black belt.

We are of the opinion that 80 percent of Dillman's stuff is great. The rest seems like it's just for show or maybe hypnosis. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsSzSflkns8 80% of it is great? 80% of Dillman's curriculum consists of pressure points and chi. I would like to hear the opinion of others on pressure point fighting.

Repetition. Relax, meaning loosen up. Immediately trying to accomplish the highest and fastest kick possible will extend past your comfort zone and cause you to tighten up. Explosive exercises. Look into the jump squat.

Read my signature!