Light sticks for sparring

[Feisty Mouse]

I do have to say that when beginning stick sparring, it was a relief to use pretty cushy padded sticks. Even really "tough guy" folks seemed to get leery of being around a stick waving in the air.

For those of us still "new to the game", the padded sticks allow you to think a bit more about what you are trying to do, not the fact that you might be clubbed by someone with a "treetrunk".

 

[Rich Parsons]

I do have to say that when beginning stick sparring, it was a relief to use pretty cushy padded sticks. Even really "tough guy" folks seemed to get leery of being around a stick waving in the air.

For those of us still "new to the game", the padded sticks allow you to think a bit more about what you are trying to do, not the fact that you might be clubbed by someone with a "treetrunk".

FM,

Has HHJH been talking to you about the sticks I brought to Virginia/DC again? I told him there were just the normal every day carry, and not anything over size, as the ones Paul J has and uses sometimes.


Yes, Padded sticks are good for testing and working, and understanding. I recommend them and they are fun. I have experience with ActionFlex only, but, would like to try the SmakStick as well as I think they look just as good.

Peace
:asian:

 

[Brian R. VanCise]

I will definately have to vouch for Rich using giant sized
sticks! Then again Rich is giant sized so the sticks are
a perfect match!

I take the approach with my students that I like them to
gain confidence and technique. So we start out using the
action flex padded sticks when sparring. Once they achieve
a certain degree of proficiency we move to W.E.K.A.F
equipment and light rattan sticks. As the student improves
we move to a medium sized stick and start pairing down
the protective equipment until all they eventually have is
a fencing helmet, light gloves, elbow and knee protectors,
cup and stick. This approach eases people in effectively
and they do not get beaten unmercifully right off the bat!
Having said all of that I take the approach of someone
training for survival and therefore we do not spar every
class but more on occasion to develop that indomitable
spirit. The rest of the time is spent on polishing our
technique! This approach seems to work real well and
people ease into the hard core approach at an appropriate
pace!

For regular training though nothing beats good rattan
with the skins on them and slightly larger in size!

Brian R. VanCise