THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SPORT AND A REAL COMBAT
Here is Anatoliy Taras’s opinion on this matter:
"Let’s compare the key parameters of sport martial arts and real combat:
SPORT
Goal — to prove one's superiority over the opponent to the judges and spectators.
There is always only one opponent.
The opponent is in the same weight category.
Equal or similar level of training.
Opponents are unarmed in all cases.
The fight follows rules; the most dangerous techniques are prohibited.
The match is monitored by referees; one can surrender.
The match begins with a signal and from a standing position, preceded by a warm-up and psychological preparation.
The match is time-limited, divided into rounds, and recovery is allowed in case of a knockdown.
The fight takes place on a flat, comfortable surface with marked boundaries.
The venue is warm, dry, and well lit.
The participants wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and footwear.
Protective gear is used (gloves, pads, foot guards, groin guards, mouthguards, headgear).
SELF-DEFENSE (REAL COMBAT)
Goal — to inflict pain, injury, or incapacitate the attacker.
Most often, there are two or three opponents (or more).
Opponents may be of any weight or height and are often larger.
There may be a significant difference in skill level.
The attacker may be armed — and so may you.
No rules: the most dangerous techniques are the most valuable.
No referees and no mercy — quite the opposite.
Sudden attack at an inconvenient moment.
No time limit, no breaks for rest or recovery.
Any location — uneven, cluttered, slippery, muddy, and without boundaries.
Any weather, any lighting — including complete darkness.
Regular clothing and footwear, often unsuitable for fighting.
No protective gear.
However, the above does not mean that sports martial arts are unsuitable for a fighter.
Systematic participation in sport martial arts sparrings and/or sport martial arts competitions is a necessary tool in the development of a fighter. During such sparring in a controlled environment, courage, reaction, timing, and a realistic sense of one's strength and technical skills are developed. It is only important to understand the purpose of sports sparrings and/or competitions and not to become fixated on any single type of sports martial art.
