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Competition preparation for forms, sparring, and weapon forms
By Nick and Zack Bergollo, Ten Time National Champions in Forms, Weapons & Sparring  When getting ready for competition, most of us practice our forms (katas), our weapon forms and our sparring. It is important to make sure that the form flows as if it is second nature. At the competition however, your score is not based on the form alone.
Photo by Astrid Bidanec
Nick and ZacK Bergollo as KICK'07 Champions
There are several other factors impacting your score: Uniforms: When we as competitors approach a judge to introduce ourselves and request permission to begin, the judges are not just listening to what our name is, they are also looking at our appearance from head to toe. Keep in mind that you represent your school, your art, your instructor and of course, yourself. Maintain a clean uniform, free of rips and holes. If possible have a uniform just for competitions. That way is does not appear old and poorly maintained. A person can say that the appearance of the uniform does not take away from your level of skill and this may be true. However, martial arts are not just about punches, kicks and blocks. Honor, respect, discipline and dedication are the foundation. The way you present yourself is half the battle. Make sure you press your uniform so that is free of wrinkles. This will show the judges how bad you want to win and your level of discipline. We are 12 years-old and our dad, who was in the military, has taught us how to press our uniforms. It only takes a few minutes and makes a big difference. Moreover, since our dad is also an instructor and a national referee, he takes the time to explain what the judges look for. Master Velazquez also emphasizes discipline in all aspects of our life, not just at the dojo. Grooming: This one goes hand in hand with clean uniforms. Most circuits have a rule about grooming in their guidelines that is sometimes ignored. Trim your nails and keep them clean. When you spar, long dirty nails become a safety hazard to your opponent. Also make sure you do not show up to your ring right after drinking something which leaves a “mustache” stain on your lip. This may sound funny, but we see it all the time. Comb your hair and keep it neat. Sparring is usually after forms so there is no reason not to look your best. Introduction & Performing Forms: You are part of one of the greatest traditions on earth. People have been training in martial arts since the dawn of man-- from ancient Egyptians, to Greeks, Romans, Japanese etc. Have pride in knowing that you are part of that tradition. When you introduce yourself,do it with pride and intensity. Let the judges know that the floor belongs to you and no one else for the next few minutes . Experienced judges will start evaluating you from the minute you ask permission to enter the ring. Once permission is granted, move quickly to the judges' table or chair and introduce yourself with a clear voice while facing the judges. Turn around if you have to adjust your uniform. Doing this in front of the judges is considered a sign of disrespect. better yet adjust your uniform while you are waiting for your turn. Open tournaments bring people from many different arts and judges can not memorize all the possible forms and all of the changes made to every form by each particular Master. Do not loose focus by looking around to the people outside the ring. It is a sure way to loose points. Pay attention to your stances. Traditional stances should not be modified. More importantly, and perhaps the best advice for performing a good form is: Forms are a coordinated set of defensive and offensive moves simulating combat with one or multiple opponents. If you are not out of breath or sweaty after you finish your form it means you just went through the motions. Really concentrate on each move. After all most forms are less than two minutes and you will be able to rest after. Be respectful: Never, ever disrespect a judge for a couple of reasons. - Most are adults and you should always respect your elders.
- Most have been practicing martial arts since before you were born.
- Most have been teaching students for years.
- They have your destiny in their hands when it comes to competition, so why would you disrespect someone who can affect the outcome of your division. Remember although judges are experienced martial artists they are human beings first, which means they make mistakes just like you do.
- Your actions reflect upon your instructors and parents, honor them by showing respect to others.
- Disrespecting a referee may cause you to be disqualified.
These are just a few tips to remember that will truly make a difference during competition and as you can see is all basics, simple things that may give you that extra point you need to win. Good luck in your next competition, maybe we will see you there! Nick and Zack Bergollo are members of MasterVelazquez Taekwondo Institute in Miami, Flo.
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