KUMITE
Kumite most often means or is translated to English
speaking people as "sparring". I will leave the literal
translation to anyone that knows the Japanese language because I do not
speak or understand Japanese well enough. In the English language I
believe "sparring" would certainly convey the actions and
thoughts that would be associated with Japanese "kumite".
Kumite is the culmination of the training of basics, kata,
movement, drills, principles, and most of the physical and mental
learning in karate. This, along with conquering the weaknesses
within oneself, and never giving up, helps to give a
student of Japan Karate Institute the ability and mindset to
protect themselves and their loved ones. Keep in mind that if the mind
is trained well, weaknesses in oneself are overcome, and proper
interaction with fellow humans are aspired to, kumite,
hopefully will not be necessary in a self defense situation. That being
said, in today's world it is quite possible that a person will find it
necessary to defend themselves and/or others. When this becomes a
physical confrontation, the training in kumite is brought to
fruition.
Kumite in the dojo, or training area, is controlled and does
not have the same stresses as would be involved with a real life self
defense situation. Take kumite training very seriously. As
with all areas of training, be serious, try hard, and
never give up in a kumite or any other area of training
and in life.