Why Contact Is Necessary

There are many theories on how Karate should be taught. When most start training in Karate, there is little contact and not a lot of impact training (hitting pads, bags, etc.). Students don't experience hitting and getting hit. The do a lot of light to no contact sparring and drills. This is OK, but they have to experience some contact (hitting and getting hit with some force) to be able to really understanding combat. Not everyone will have to get in the ring and fight, but as instructors we have do and then we have to use those experiences to give our students (especially those who will will never get the chance to compete) the proper perspective on fighting.