Sparring is an accumulation of skills that combines physical ability with mental alertness.

The competition weapons category is similar to forms in that it is a pattern of moves executed while using nunchuks, bow staffs, kamas and swords.

“For most of the students, it was their first or second tournament,” Gilham said of the Nov. 10 competition. “I think tournaments are a great way to present your skills against others from all over the country and will make you better, win or lose.”

Impact Martial Arts is located at Cornerstone Fitness and Wellness Center in Clanton.

Classes are three days a week. The next tournament will be in Heflin in January.

Gilham said he is planning a free women’s self-defense class to be held Saturday, Dec. 1, at 10 a.m. at Cornerstone.

The class will feature Seventh Degree Black Belt Karen Mitchell of Pelham, who will share the story of her attack and how she was able to fight and get away.

The class will be open to the community, and donations will be collected for the She Dances Organization, which provides holistic restoration for young girls who have been trafficked and sexually exploited in Honduras.

For more information about Impact Martial Arts or the self-defense class, call (205) 266-0732.