Sparring (Matsogi)
In ITF Taekwon-Do, sparring is a training method — not chaos. Each format solves a different problem: distance, timing, control, and decision-making under pressure. This section organizes sparring the way the ITF Encyclopedia intends.
Recommended path: Three-Step → Two-Step → One-Step → Semi-Free → Free → Model & Specialty
Start here
Safety & Control Gates
The rules that keep sparring productive: contact control, stop command, intensity ladders, and how to prevent ego escalation.
Three-Step Sparring (Sambo Matsogi)
The beginner foundation for distance and stepping. Builds correct habits before speed and pressure.
One-Step Sparring (Ilbo Matsogi)
Teaches decisive timing: one committed attack, one clean defense/counter, stable finish, and safe disengagement.
Semi-Free Sparring (Ban-Jayoo Matsogi)
Controlled freedom with limited tools. The bridge between step sparring and free sparring.
All sparring pages
- Safety & Control Gates
- Three-Step Sparring (Sambo Matsogi)
- Two-Step Sparring (Ibo Matsogi)
- One-Step Sparring (Ilbo Matsogi)
- Semi-Free Sparring (Ban-Jayoo Matsogi)
- Free Sparring (Jayoo Matsogi)
- Model Sparring (Mobum Matsogi)
- Foot Technique Sparring (Bal Matsogi)
- Pre-Arranged Free Sparring (Yaksok Jayoo Matsogi)
- Core Skills: Distance, Timing, Angles
- Drills Library
- Sparring for Grading & Standards
- FAQ & Common Mistakes
How the sparring types fit together
ITF sparring is progressive. Step sparring builds structure and distance control. Semi-free builds decisions. Free sparring tests timing and composure under pressure.
- Step sparring (3/2/1): structure, distance, balance, clean counters.
- Semi-free: limited choices, controlled freedom, tactical awareness.
- Free sparring: timing, adaptability, composure, control at speed.
- Model/specialty: demonstration quality, refinement, and targeted skill development.
Connect sparring to teaching & foundations
Sparring quality depends on fundamentals. If stance, footwork, and timing are weak, sparring becomes sloppy fast.