Can I Still Spar in Kickboxing While Wearing Glasses?

People often wonder if it's possible to engage in full contact combat sports such as kickboxing while wearing glasses. This question arises from practical concerns about vision and safety. In this article, we will explore the answer to this query and provide guidance on how to handle the situation effectively.

Can You Spar Without Glasses?

There are actually two scenarios to consider when addressing the possibility of wearing glasses during sparring. The first scenario involves sparring without glasses, and the second involves wearing glasses during a confrontation.

For individuals with less severe vision impairment, such as the author, who has eye sight around -6.75 and -6.25, training without glasses can be possible. The author explains that their vision is adequate for spotting incoming strikes, which is the primary concern during sparring. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of training without glasses may vary depending on individual vision and circumstances.

Can You Spar While Wearing Glasses?

The second scenario involves sparring while wearing glasses. In this case, the answer is unequivocally no. The author warns that wearing glasses during sparring can result in serious damage to both your face and the glasses themselves. Striking a face protected by glasses can cause significant harm, and the glasses themselves can break under the impact. As a result, a responsible instructor would not allow sparring with glasses, as it poses a risk to both the fighter and the equipment.

Alternative Solutions

For those who prefer to wear glasses during training, alternative solutions can be considered. Non-contact training activities can be conducted with glasses, such as when engaging with safety goggles designed to fit over the top of regular glasses. For more intensive sparring sessions, prescription sports goggles can be used. These goggles can be worn over regular glasses to provide additional protection.

It's also advisable to consult with other fighters at the training site who also wear glasses. They can provide valuable insights into how they manage their vision and safety during training. Goggles may be another consideration for protecting both your face and your regular glasses during contact training.

Conclusion

The answer to whether you can spar in kickboxing with glasses largely depends on the severity of your vision impairment and the level of contact involved. Training without glasses can be feasible for those with milder vision issues, but wearing glasses during full-contact sparring is not advisable due to potential risks. By considering these factors and exploring alternative solutions, you can ensure both your safety and the integrity of your training equipment.