Sparring is the #1 way to discover if techniques are effective. There is two types of sparing, light sparring and full contact sparring. Light sparring uses padded sticks provided by reputable martial arts suppliers. Padded sticks combined with sparring gear significantly reduce injury, especially with no grappling/takedown rules. Full contact sparring uses sticks and limited armor combined with takedowns, grappling and MMA style striking. An example of ‘Dog Brothers’ full contact sparring is shown below. Sparring is NOT required as part of lessons. In fact, many insurance providers will not insure teachers who engage in full contact sparring! Students need to understand that there are many in class who are interested in the health benefits but are not interested in the combat applications of FMA. Light sparring is sometimes required for students at senior belts during testing. Students who are interested in light sparring should tell the instructors. Once they have enough control, they can join sparring club. Students who want full contact sparring will need to attend Dog Brothers or a similar organization. Students who are extremely serious about self defense should consider this as an additional step to harden their skills in combat situations.