What is Kumite?

In the old days, Kumite is not a formal or integral part of Goju-Ryu. Kumite was invented by our grandmaster, Gogen Yamaguchi. The purposes of Kumite is to practice technique with the greatest of control. In time however, Goju-Ryu Kai leaders had sponsor and support tournament fighting as well as establish a reputation as the tournament players to be reckoned with, especially during the 1960’s and 70’s, the time of Goju-Ryu greatest following of practitioners.

There are many major factors in a successful Kumite:

1. Kime and Speed
2. Timing and Reaction
3. Distance and Positioning
4. Reaction and Aggression
5. Defense