Sparring in early karate in Okinawa, known as “Te” or “Tode,”** was quite different from modern karate sparring. Here’s an overview of what it looked like:

Characteristics of Early Okinawan Sparring:
1. No Formalized Sparring Rules:
– Early karate did not have structured sparring formats like modern kumite. Instead, practice was heavily focused on kata pre-arranged forms) and bunkai (application of kata techniques).
– Sparring was often informal and spontaneous, emphasizing practical self-defense rather than sport.

2. Close-Range Combat:
– Techniques were designed for close-quarters combat, reflecting the need for self-defense in real-life situations.
– Strikes, joint locks, throws, and grappling were all part of the repertoire, as early karate was a comprehensive martial art.

3. Full-Contact Practice:
– Sparring was often full-contact or semi-contact, with practitioners testing their techniques in realistic scenarios.
– Protective gear was not used, so practitioners had to control their strikes to avoid serious injury.

4. Emphasis on Realism:
– Sparring was less about scoring points and more about developing effective self-defense skills.
– Techniques were practiced with the intent of neutralizing an opponent quickly and efficiently.

5. Limited Use of Kicks:
– Early Okinawan karate focused more on hand strikes, elbow strikes, and grappling. High kicks were rare, as they were considered impractical in real combat.

6. Training with Partners:
– Partner drills, such as **yakusoku kumite** (pre-arranged sparring), were used to practice timing, distance, and application of techniques.
– These drills were often slow and controlled to ensure proper understanding of the techniques.

7. Influence of Chinese Martial Arts:
– Early Okinawan karate was heavily influenced by Chinese martial arts, particularly Fujian White Crane and other Southern Chinese styles.
– This influence is evident in the circular movements, joint locks, and close-range techniques seen in early sparring.

Evolution into Modern Karate:
– As karate spread to mainland Japan in the early 20th century, it underwent significant changes. **Gichin Funakoshi** and other pioneers introduced standardized sparring rules, protective gear, and a focus on sport karate.
– Modern kumite emphasises speed, precision, and point-scoring, which is quite different from the practical, self-defence-oriented sparring of early Okinawan karate.

Summary:
Early Okinawan sparring was raw, practical, and focused on real-world self-defense. It lacked the structure and sportive elements of modern karate but was deeply rooted in effective combat techniques.