Sparring for the first time tonight...

[Safroot]

Throw a few fakes. There is one thing you can do, but it may be risky. Basically, throw the same move about two or three times such a jab. Then throw a fake jab, followed by another move such as a punch. I'm not sure if this is the best piece of advice mind you.

Sounds good ... I will try it in my next sparring sessions

[Canadian77]

Sounds like a typical "first time."

And it's a lot like that other kind of "first time." You have absolutely no idea what you are doing, you are hoping the other person doesn't notice. You realize everything people have told you about it is 80% wrong and your lucky if you just get through it without being hurt. And of course the more you do it, the better you get at it.

Lol!! That's a new perspective!

[Canadian77]

Any advice for a newbie at sparring? Tonight will be my first time ever sparring, and I'm not really sure what to expect. I trust my sensei but I know my reflexes aren't the greatest. Mostly I'm just worried I'll look ridiculous, lol. Any last minute advice for starting out?

Throw a few fakes. There is one thing you can do, but it may be risky. Basically, throw the same move about two or three times such a jab. Then throw a fake jab, followed by another move such as a punch. I'm not sure if this is the best piece of advice mind you.

Sounds like good advice to me; I use fakes and dummies quite a lot, and it's really funny how well they actually work!! Especially the mae-geri one: lift/jerk your knee up as if you about to kick - they usually lower their guard to block - and in that instant you lower your leg and strike at their head.

And don't worry: you WILL get better.

More great advice, both of these. I'm taking all this to heart and will keep practicing.