I realize that this is an old thread, but I had to weigh In on this subject. In my humble opinion, the only way to use snap techniques is in a self defense situation with accuracy. I just think that in a tournament setting the equipment on the hands and feet negate the accuracy that is needed for snap techniques.
I know that in the old days flinging your feet or hands at targets scored points, but accuracy was a relative thing.
It wasn't until I started up in a traditional style (Okinawan Goju Ryu) that I was to learn the lesson that snap techniques when done without pads must have great focus.

just some thoughts, Mark

Just curious gojuman, but how do they practice accuracy in your currenct style of karate? Do you spar at all or do you use targets (like pads)?

Thanks.

We do spar some, but I have to admit that we do more on the focus pads. This being said I guess I come off being kind of pompous sometimes. You have to remember as an old broken down tournament fighter who has started over in a traditional school my opinions are old school.



keep on keepin on, Mark

Hey no problem, thanks for the input! I was just curious as to what you did in terms of training for accuracy.

I find that combat sports can be a mixed bag. They offer a lot of benefits but they can develop bad habits too.

I know what you mean. You can imagine how a ITF tournament fighter from yesteryear would find himself knocked on his butt with regularity in a traditional (goju) school. Lots of bad habits combined with being older than dirt. "This not tournament Daniel son, this is for real" Ha!Ha!
Starting over in the arts has done one thing real well,It has let me be a better fellow student. Old age is a humbling thing, man. Well I got to go. Class is a waiting.

later, Mark