why teach skills that are illegal in "matches"

[Groinstrike]

Good point panda.

[Akikazeninja]

There are a few schools of taijutsu that are now forgotten because a person chose not to teach it, so he is probably just trying to pass on the tradition

[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.

[senseikellam]

When I read your discussion, it took me back to the original karate kid movie and the discussion between Daniel and Miyagi.

Daniel: So, karate's fighting. You train to fight.

Miyagi: That what you think?

Daniel: [pondering] No.

Miyagi: Then why train?

Daniel: [thinks] So I won't have to fight.

Miyagi: [laughs] Miyagi have hope for you.

Anyway, my point is that if but in a real life situation where you are forced to fight to protect yourself or someone else, wouldn't you want to know any and all techniques that may aid you in such a situation.

That is why Sensei's teach techniques that are not allowed in competition. Speaking for myself (not meaning to offend anyone), I would be a really bad instructor if I only focused on the competition legal moves. You have to humble yourself and realize that no matter how much you know and how good you think you are, someone out there always knows more and you just HOPE it is not the criminal who is trying to kill you.

[Lee M]

There are skills in boxing which are illgeal but it doesn't stop someone from trying to use them in a bout.

Using his head for example or elbow in a clinch.

[sensei8]

I'll continue to teach these so-called "Illegal" techniques because in the street, the only trophy worth anything is LIFE/SURVIVAL.