sparring

[SA Karate]

The feelings you are having are natural. If I may; you have fear, which if channelled properly can become a positive driving force. Secondly, you are unsure of yourself. My suggestion is to control your mind, know that whomever you spar against they will not hurt you. What you need to do is revert back to all you have learned and stick to what works. Do not allow your opponent no matter who they are to intimidate you. More importantly DO NOT allow yourself to intimidate yourself. Easier said than done. Remember this is your journey and every step is important. The great lesson here is what you are learning about YOU. Conquer this fear and apprehension within yourself and it will be a great stepping stone to forging you as a martial artist. If a stranger climbed through your bedroom window at night, what would you do? Wonder if you could take him? Certainly not, you would do everything to protect you and your family. This is the mindset of a warrior, do, conquer, no defeat, only victory. Now in saying all that train man train. Be explosive yet loose not tight, lower the shoulders since that is where tension builds. A stick travels only so fast, but a loose whip is like lightning. Be loose and your techniques will fly... "Speed is being there"?. Go for it, no matter who the opponent. Remember the only true opponent is ourselves.