Competition is Necessary

Is competition necessary for martial artists? Yes! Most martial arts classes are based on theories. There is nothing wrong with theory, but practice has to be practical too. If a veteran boxer says he can knock you out, he says this based on experience. He has been in contact situations that have allowed him to learn how to throw debilitating blows. The wrestler is the same in that he has been taking opponents down since he was 6 years old. The martial arts student who goes to class, advances in rank, but has no fights of any kind is in for a rude awakening when put in a fight situation. Either you or your instructor has to have some type of experience. If you are trained by fighters, then they can streamline their knowledge and simulate what you need to be prepared.