Spar = to practice fighting without going full power and with extra protective equipment.

The Benefits of Sparring
 
The question is often asked, "Why do we need to spar and what are the benefits?" 
 
In short, my personal opinion is very simple - How can a chef know his food tastes good if he never eats it? IE how do you know your fighting skills work, or if you have the understanding and the feeling of how to implement the techniques you have learned? 
 
When we spar we practice and improve our techniques. Sparring intensity varies from very light to very hard sparring, this depends on the skill level of both partners and also the main objective of the sparring. It could be light sparring just to find timing, range, and build experience. Whereas, hard sparring tests your fortitude, improves conditioning, and helps build confidence. 
 
In sparring, we only have the following outcomes: 
 
A) We best our sparring partners.This allows us to see what works well, practice implementing it in real life, and builds confidence. Learning to control your power, emotions, and be calmer when fighting. 
 
B) We have a very competitive and closely matched sparring partner.This gives a great look into our decision making, reactions, and also the balance of facing fear with confidence. 
 
C) Your opponent bests you.Being outclassed is humbling, facing the physical and mental challenges cultivates a fighting spirit. We learn most from our losses, but it's best to face those lessons in a safe environment under the mentorship of a coach. 
 
There are also three main areas where sparring helps us to improve ourselves.
 
The Mind
 
Learning - how to outsmart your sparring partner, how to use all the techniques you've learned, what strategies to use against different opponents.
 
The Body
 
Improving - physical conditioning, endurance, muscle memory, reaction speed, and agility.
 
The Spirit
 
Instilling - fortitude, bravery, calmness, the ability to better control your emotions, and a fighter's spirit. 
 
Sparring should be done in a safe environment, supervised with matching partners, and wearing relevant protective equipment. Sparring should be done to help improve the athletes and help them on their journey. 
 
Stay safe on the mat and NEVER GIVE UP!