Sparring is the ultimate practice of a student's skill and understanding of karate. Myo Sim students learn controlled technique from the start, and do not spar with pads. All sparring is done with controlled contact to appropriate targets. Students do not start free sparring until after earning their first rank, Yellow Belt - 7th Kyup. Myo Sim Karate also teaches a comprehensive system of locks, escapes, throws, and falls.
Students ultimately learn to escape, reverse, or break any standing grab with partners.
Myo Sim in Charlottesville, began as a UVA club in 1966 sarted by Doug Marshall as a Blue Belt. Fred Morton joined the club as an undergrad in 1969 and continued his martial arts studies under Mr. Hong. Mr. Morton was later asked by the Phys Ed Dpt to teach a self defense class. The success and popularity of this class prompted Mr. Morton to teach Myo Sim for credit in 1973. Since 1982, Mr. Morton's senior students have taught this class.