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In order to prevent CTE (brain degeneration caused by repetitive trauma to the head), hard sparring should only be done at very specific times throughout a fighter’s career:
1. After the fighter has a proficient understanding and ability to defend & counter incoming strikes
2. Two (2) or more weeks before their initial full-contact matches
3. No less than 10 days apart

Note: I am specifically talking about strikes to the head. Personally, I think going hard to the body is not only safe (when done correctly), but it’s also necessary for conditioning. But you can NOT condition the head!

WARNING: THIS ADVICE IS BASED OFF OF MY OWN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AND RESEARCH. I AM NOT A PROFESSIONAL PHYSICIAN, AND YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN/YOUR STUDENTS’ WELL-BEING.

In this video, we discuss alternative drills to build up the skills needed for developing offensive & defensive strategies, managing range, and keeping your eyes open.

1. What is CTE? (0:53)
2. Defense & Timing Drill: Shoulders & Knees (2:36)
3. Flow Drills (3:24)
4. Isolated Sparring (4:43)
5. When is hard sparring necessary? (6:50)
6. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT (9:16)

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When using the term “hard sparring”, I’m referring to throwing strikes with up to 100% power behind strikes (to the head, specifically). It is necessary for fighters, especially early in their competitive career, to understand how to deal with pressure and stress inoculation — this is when hard sparring should be done under professional supervision. As a fighter progresses through their career, hard sparring should dwindle from their training, as taking heavy shots to the head will have a detrimental effect on their brain and ability to “take a punch.”

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