Boxe Française Savate

Student's Manual

Club website www.savate.dsl.pipex.com

La Boxe Française Savate

Introduction

This manual has been collated to give the Boxe Française Savate Student a central reference source with which to build their knowledge and understanding of this truly fascinating fighting art.

History of Savate

The origins of Savate can be traced back to the end of the 18^th century.

It is thought that by the 1800's `La Savate' was being used as a simple street fighting art that utilised open hand strikes and kicks.

There are many articles which trace the origins of Savate, but most seem to agree that the art developed in the tough streets of Marseilles.

It is not known what exact influences moulded the style but it is speculated that sailor's returning from the orient and the influence of Basque fighting due to the population of Basque's in southern France, are the principle shapers.

The first detailed study of these fighting styles that were emerging in Marseilles was made by Michel Cassuex in about 1820. He noted that some of the kicks used, had a very definite and precise mechanism and were not simply the result of throwing a leg out.

Cassuex introduced Savate Marseilles, as it was then known, to Paris. He opened up a Salle or practice gym in Courtille, which attracted some interest from the fashionable elements of society that existed at that time, for example, the Duke of Orleans is thought to have trained in the art.

It was one of Cassuex's pupils, Charles Lecour, who is accredited with introducing the English style of closed fist punches, after he himself was beaten in a match by the English boxer, Owen Swift. It is said that Charles went to England to study `Boxe Anglais' and later returned to Paris. Bruce Tegner accredits Hubert Lecour (Charles Lecour's brother) with this in his book entitled `Savate: French Foot and Fist Fighting'. But we will go with the majority view and assume Charles introduced the closed fist punch. Thus `La Boxe Française' was born.

`La Boxe Française' incorporated English boxing rules within its mandate, where these applied to punches and the legacy of these rules is found today.

A number of exponents of Savate came onto the scene at this time, such as Hubert Lecour and Louis Vigneron. But it was Joseph Charlemont who was to have a lasting influence on the sport.

Charlemont taught Boxe Française alongside La Canne in Paris, but he had to flee into exile following the defeat of the republicans (whom he backed) at the hands of the monarchist's. He settled in Belgium and opened boxing schools there which became highly successful, and he published his first book on French Boxing methods.

Following the establishment of the Third Republic, Charlemont received an amnesty and returned to Paris and went about setting up further schools until French Boxing reached the height of its popularity just before the outbreak of the First World War.

By this time his son Charles Charlemont, had gained notoriety within the sport along with other notables such as Victor Castéres and Georges Carpentier.

By the end of the 19^th Century it was estimated that there was more than 100,000 practitioners of La Boxe Française. Sadly the two intervening Great wars nearly wiped out the sport and it is thanks to one man, La Comte Pierre Baruzy, whose enthusiasm and commitment, that kept the sport going.

Today there are over 40,000 practitioners around the world and the sport is once again, gaining popularity, especially across Europe.

The word `Savate' literally means the slang for `Old Shoe'. Today, in recognition that Savate developed from a self defence system, the self defence aspect of the art is referred to as Savate Defence, whereas the ring sport is known as La Boxe Française in order to avoid confusion. Collectively, the title Boxe Française - Savate is used

Organisation of Savate

Today Savate is an internationally practiced combat sport. The principal governing body is Fédération Internationale de Savate (F.I.S). This international organisation was formally constituted on the 23^rd March 1985.

Each country has its own Federation which is affiliated to the F.I.S.

In Great Britain, this is the Great Britain Savate Federation (GBSF). In France it is the Fédération Française de Savate, Boxe Française et D.A (FFSbf & DA). The initials `DA' stand for Disciplines Assimilées or Associated Disciplines. Within the French Federation resides the martial art element of Savate, which is represented by Savate Defence, Grand Baton, La Canne, and Savate Forme. Similar arrangements exist within other national federations.

Savate in Great Britain

Today, Savate in Great Britain is managed under the careful guidance of the Great Britain Savate Federation (GBSF) which is a fully affiliated Federation to the F.I.S.

The GBSF is able to sanction its own leagues, such as the `Assaut' league, which is currently held over three events each year. It is also able to grade its members and train instructors.

The GBSF provides a focus for the promotion of Savate in this country. It is through the GBSF that instructors gain certification and insurance in order to enable them to open clubs and promote the sport regionally.

Students are required to join the GBSF before they can grade. Such membership carries with it member to member insurance and in addition each instructor is required to have professional indemnity insurance. Through such controls the integrity and standards of excellence are maintained which compare favourably to other martial arts/sports associations.

Equipment

The uniform of a Savateur typically reflects a flamboyant French style. Savateur's wear an all in one polyester intergrale garment that is extremely comfortable to train and fight in.

Another unique piece of equipment used by the Savateur is the boot or Chaussure worn on the feet. Unlike English boxing boots, they have a thicker sole and edge to them. These boots serve a dual purpose. Firstly to protect the feet so kicks can be delivered with force without fear of injury and secondly, to provide a penetrating tip, slashing edge or stamping heel to focus the power and precision of the kick itself.

Other items of equipment are similar to those found in English boxing. Standard boxing gloves may be used (regulated by weight class in competitions) or a unique French Boxing glove may be used which have extra protection around the cuff to mitigate the effects of blocking kicks delivered with the French boxing boot

Shin pads, groin and bust guards and gum shield are the same as used in other fighting sports

Boxe Française Techniques

General kicking

"THE CHASSE"
Chasse kicks are straight line kicks that travel with a “piston” like action, pushing out from you to hit a target then returning to a flexed position along the same line or trajectory. There are two forms of Chasse kick, Frontal and Lateral

Chasse Lateral. Lift the knee of the “kicking” foot towards its opposite shoulder, (left knee to right shoulder or vice versa) this motion will cause you to pivot on the supporting leg. Turn the outside edge of the striking leg towards ceiling, calf pressed against thigh. The”kicking” foot should now be pushed out towards its intended target. After hitting target pull leg back to flex before either kicking again or “placing” the foot down.
It is possible to jump, skip or spin into a Chasse Lateral.
When using the left leg to kick with, use a strong left arm guard or vice versa using right leg.

Target area's for Chasse kicks.
Bas: Front face of legs. (Above the knee but below groin.)
Median: Front of body. (Stomach, solar plexus and sternum.)
Figure: Front of head / face.

This illustration shows a fighter delivering a Chasse Lateral to mid section and head. In all of these illustrations the left arm should be slightly more bent at the elbow to create better protection for the head

This illustration shows a fighter delivering a Chasse Lateral Bas, in the first picture his left knee is raised towards the right shoulder, which causes the fighter to pivot upon his supporting leg. He then pushes the sole /heel of the striking leg straight at the target area, if kick is aimed at low line target (as in this illustration) the supporting leg is bent to increase reach and lower centre of gravity.

This illustration shows a chasse marche croise - moving to adjust distance between kicker and opponent. Note the right leg crosses behind the kicking leg before being raised to its opposite shoulder, in this illustration the kick is aimed at mid section

Chasse Frontal: When delivering this kick, remain “square on” to opponent. Raise kicking legs knee towards its same shoulder, (left knee to left shoulder or vice versa) push the heel or sole of the striking foot towards proposed target. After hitting target pull leg back to flex before either kicking again or “placing” the foot down. The kicker should keep both arms flexed in front of them, elbows touching each other to protect against possible incoming attacks

This illustration shows the kicker “chambering” the knee before delivering a Chasse Frontal to mid section. To increase the efficiency of this kick the kicker's hips and shoulders should be in line with each other. In order to gain distance, a “skip” or forward jump can be added from the chambered position, as the supporting foot should touches the ground the fully extended kicking leg hits it's target.

In this illustration the kicker has jump / skipped into a chasse lateral to the head, the fully extended kicking leg should contact with the target at the same time as the supporting leg touches the floor. The skipping / jumping motion makes this “saute” kick a very powerful technique, if aimed at the mid section it can create a lot of room between fighters, by pushing one fighter clear across the ring.

Sweep kicking "THE COUP DE PIED BAS"
This kick has two purposes that are different depending upon whether you use the front or rear leg to perform the kick. In both cases the kicking leg pivots from the hip and remains fully extended, the foot acting like a match striking across the floor, lifting from the floor at the last possible moment and striking just above the opponents ankle.

Front leg coup pied bas: This kick is used to sweep opponents feet away from beneath them. It travels in a circular motion and the inside, front third of the foot is used to make contact. It must strike below the knee but to be effective the lower the better.

Rear leg coup pied bas: This kick is used to attack the shin/ankle area of an opponent. The foot is “dragged” across the floor then “flicked” up off the ground at the last moment in a straight line towards the target. The inside, front third of the foot is used to make contact; this is a very effective “self defence” kick and is the only kick effective at “very close range.”

In this illustration the kicker starts from a “stance” position, delivers a Coup de pied bas using his rear leg, and then returns to “stance”. Note the chin is tucked in as kicker strikes; this kick is a close range kick so care must be taken to ensure the chin is not exposed to attack.

In this illustration the kicker is trying to unbalance his opponent with a coup de pied bas kick using the front leg. Note the pendulum motion, as the foot sweeps, the head and shoulders pull back out of punching range.

Reverse kicking "THE REVERS"
There are two types of revers kick these are “frontal” and “lateral” - both are circular motion kicks but use different parts of the foot to strike the desired target. To increase power to both revers kicks it is simple and effective to either add a spinning movement before the kick or to utilise the spinning motion of a missed fouette kick!

Revers frontal: Standing “square - on” to the opponent swing the “fully extended” kicking leg across your other leg in a circular, crescent motion from the hip. When the desired height is reached pull the leg sideways striking the target with the outside edge of the foot (gain extra reach by pointing the toes towards the target) Complete the full circle and place the foot back on the ground, maintain a “square - on” stance at all times during the kick.

Target areas for all Revers kicks:
Bas: Interior or exterior of the legs. (Above knee level but below hip/ groin)
Median: Sides of the body, prime target is lower or “floating” rib. If a sidestep or “decalage” movement is employed just before kicking it is possible to hit the centre/ front of an opponent.
Figure: Sides of head. If a sidestep or “decalage” movement is employed just before kicking it is possible to hit an opponent full in the face!

Here the kicker performs a revers to the head of an opponent using his front leg; the opponent has blocked the kick using his left glove to protect against the kick. The kicker in the illustration is not well organised in his defence, the arms ought to be flexed and in front of his body

This next illustration shows a revers frontal kick to the head using the rear leg.

Revers lateral: Standing “square - on” to the opponent swing the “fully extended” kicking leg across your other leg in a circular motion from the hip. When the desired height is reached pivot on the supporting leg so the toes of this foot point away from the opponent and turn the outside edge of the kicking leg towards the ceiling. At this point you will be “side-on” to your opponent now pull the kicking leg back to the closed position “slapping” the target with the sole of the foot.
The “finish” position of a revers lateral is the “start” position for a fouette kick so the two kicks can easily be put together to form a “two kick combination”.

Here the kicker is completing a Revers Lateral bas, the sole of the foot “slapping” the inner thigh of his opponent.

Here the kicker is completing a Revers Lateral to the mid section, the sole of the foot “slapping” the side / floating rib of his opponent. Notice the full extension of the kicking leg; this keeps the kicker's head out of punch range and therefore safe.

A Revers Lateral to the head, the sole of the foot “slapping” the side his opponent's glove, the fully extended kicking leg keeps the kicker's head out of punching range

In this illustration the kicker has “spun” into a revers frontal to mid section, the spinning motion is the same for all “spin” kicks. The kicker could have aimed at any height target.

Circular Motion Kick "THE FOUETTE"
The Fouette kick is a “circular” motion kick that travels in a horizontal arc. To perform the kick you raise the striking leg with knee bent. As you do this “pivot” on your supporting leg and point the knee of striking leg, outside edge uppermost, at proposed target. Your calf muscle should at this point be touching your thigh; this position is known as “chambered” in English or “arme” in French. Finally “whip” open the striking leg to fully extended hitting your target.

A. The upper toe area of your boot for training or assaut.
B. The tip or point of the boot for self - defence or full contact competitions.

It is important to pull the leg back immediately after hitting the target and either kick again or “place” it back on the floor in the position required. Do not just let the leg drop after hitting target, as this will leave you “open” to be swept using Coup de Pied Bas.

Target areas for the fouette kick:
Bas: Interior or exterior of the legs. (Above knee level but below hip/ groin)
Median: Sides of the body, prime target is lower or “floating” rib. If a sidestep or “decalage” movement is employed just before kicking it is possible to hit the centre/ front of an opponent.
Figure: Sides of head. If a sidestep or “decalage” movement is employed just before kicking it is possible to hit an opponent full in the face!

1. This illustration shows a kicker in the “chambered or “arme” position, he is giving no indication as to where the kick will land. Inexperienced fighters will look at where they want to kick, an experienced fighter will read this information and move to the best position to counter against the attack

2. This illustration shows a “fouette” bas using the front (left) leg. Note the kickers slightly flexed supporting leg, which lowers his centre of balance and gives him extra reach. His arms are flexed to guard against a possible counter attack

3. Here left the kicker is delivering a fouette median using his front or left leg. Note position of right or “supporting” legs foot. It is important that this foot points away from your opponent.

4. Here right the kicker is delivering a fouette figure / head using his front or left leg. Note position of right or “supporting” legs foot. It is important that this foot points away from your opponent. When kicking to body or head the supporting leg should not be bent at the knee.

The Savate Punches

Jab & Cross "DIRECT"


Jab. (Direct Bras Avant)
A straight punch given with the lead arm. When delivering the punch, the pelvis and shoulders are utilized by the action of pivoting on the ball of the front foot. This gives added range and power.

Cross. (Direct Bras Arriere)
Another straight punch but this time given with the rear arm. Once again, when punching the pelvis and shoulders are utilised by the action of pivoting on the ball of the rear foot.

With both punches, the chin is tucked against the collar bone with sight fixed along the striking arm. The glove of the other arm is held in protection to guard the jaw line. Once the target is struck, the striking arm is retracted quickly to reform one's guard.

These two long-range punches are the most commonly used hand techniques in nearly all fighting arts. The Jab is an excellent opening punch when putting together any punch combination; it is often thrown as a dummy or feint to draw an opponents attention.


.

This illustration shows a Jab and a Cross to the head; note the positioning of the feet.

Competitions in Savate

In Savate there are three levels of competition/sparring

Assaut or light contact for Red Glove and above (Normally 3x1.30mins).
In an assaut competition there are three judges that award points for not only, hits to target areas but also variety, style and control of techniques, fighters must wear protection in the form of groin protection and mouth guard, but shin pads and head guards are optional. The use of uncontrolled power will result in disqualification.


Combat or full contact for Silver Glove student, European and World Championships. (5x2mins). At this level most fights end with a clear winner but the points system is still used to decide in uncertain bouts. Fighters use full power blows and are not allowed any protection to the head or legs. Gum shields and groin protectors are obligatory. Shin pads and a head guard are forbidden

Pre-Combat or full contact, but with the requirement to wear Shin-pads and a head guard

At present, in Great Britain, sparring, club and inter-club competitions are in Assaut only. Although Red Glove is required to enter Assaut competitions in Europe, this is not yet a requirement in Great Britain. Sparring within the club is based upon the Assaut regime and is open to all glove grades at the discretion of the Club Coach

Rank Structure in Savate

Grades are represented by a patch worn on the Integrale or training clothes of the Savateur.

 

Technical ranks: blue, green, red, white, yellow, Technical Silver 1,2,3 (extremely rarely awarded). (A purple glove is sometime awarded to individuals less than sixteen years of age. Those individual have to retake an exam once they reach the age of 18 years of age in order to be awarded the silver glove.

Competition ranks: Bronze and Competition Silver (1, 2, 3, 4, 5). Competition rank are awarded based on the number of wins/ losses

Honorific Ranks:

Honorific ranks have nothing to do with technical or competitive abilities. Eligibility is based on exceptional services rendered for the name of Savate. Only 2 honorific rank can be awarded, they are the "vermilion glove and the golden glove"

Aside from this ranking there is no other kind of glove ranking.

A wrist band and or a chest badge can be worn to designate the corresponding rank of an individual. However, in competition or seminar, the badge must be worn on the left side of the Savateurs' chest.

 

Savate Ranks in Context

Ranks in Savate do not have any formal equivalence to Grades awarded in Martial Arts, i.e. Blue Glove (Gant Bleu) is not equivalent to White Belt. Glove ranking in Savate is an indication of the Savateurs technical knowledge and ability. In other words it is an indication of how good the Savateur is. However, it is widely regarded that the Rank of Yellow Glove (Gant Jaune) is broadly equivalent to the black belt (1^st Dan) of other fighting arts. In this context, Silver Glove (Gant D'Argent) 3° would represent a Masters Black Belt Grade in other fighting arts and the Silver Glove (Gant D'Argent) 1° and 2° would represent the intermediate black belts grades up to the level of Master.

Technical Ranks Structure

Awarding of Technical Ranks:

Technical ranks are awarded by a panel of instructors at GBSF sanctioned grading events. Savateurs can start to compete in Assault competitions once they have reached the red glove level and for Combat competitions yellow glove is the GBSF recommended minimum grade

 

Gant Bleu (Blue Glove) - Beginners Grade 1

To be able to touch an opponent.

Gant Vert (Green Glove) - Beginners Grade 2

To be able to touch an opponent after blocking an attack.
To recognise an attack, to be able to defend and counter it.

Gant Rouge (Red Glove) - Intermediate Grade 1

(Eligible to Enter Assaut Competitions)

To be able to touch an open target whilst being attacked.
To be able to anticipate the attack and choose the most appropriate defence (block, parry, side-step etc.) in order to reach an unprotected open target

This glove is an important milestone - allows students to commence `Instructor Training', including the Judging and Refereeing course.

Gant Blanc (White Glove) - Intermediate Grade 2

To be able to touch an open target before being touched.
To be able to anticipate an attack and counter before opponent has completed his / her attacking technique.

Pre-requisite for this grade is completion of the Judging and Refereeing Course

Gant Jaune (Yellow Glove) - Senior Grade

(Eligible to Enter Pre-Combat Competitions)

To be able to create an open target and touch it before being touched.
To be able to create an unprotected target by using a feint or 'dummy' and then to touch that target, with an appropriate technique, without being countered.

Considered to be Savate's equivalent of a Black Belt

Gant D'Argent (Silver Glove) - Expert Grade

To be able to create open targets on an opponent and to touch those unprotected targets using advanced techniques, before being touched or countered.
To be able to 'flow' with a partner in sparring (assaut).

There are 3 degrees of Silver Glove

Gant D'Argent - 1° Technical

Gant D'Argent - 2° Technical

Gant D'Argent - 3° Technical

Competition Rank Structure

Competition rank can only be achieved by competing in `Combat' (full contact) and `Pre-Combat' competitions.

You may only compete in `Combat' if you have a competition rank of Bronze Glove (Gant D'Bronze) or higher.

We do not presently have a competition rank structure in Great Britain although members of the Great Britain Savate Federation have fought in France and hold competition ranks

Competition ranks are delivered by the regional, Federal, or international commission according to the following criteria:

• Just participating in an official competition allows the fighter to earn 1 Point (except if the fighter has been disqualified)

• Each victory allows the fighter to earn an additional 2 points toward his competition rank.

• Victory by "forfeit" (i.e.: in case opponent doesn't show up for the fight) allow the fighter to only earn an additional point (i.e.: 2 points).

 

The Bronze Glove: This is the first competition rank. To achieve the rank of Bronze Glove the fighter must compete in Pre-Combat competitions. Successfully achieving Bronze Glove allows the fighter to access combat competition. The fighter must have at least a yellow glove and be registered by the professeur or the moniteur of his/her club. If those criteria are completed then the fighter needs only to cumulate a total of 10 competition points with at least a minimum of one victory in order to earn the bronze glove. The official delegate will have to complete page 11 of the passport at each of the fights.

 

Competition Silver Gloves (1°-5°) are delivered at the end of each competition season by a federal commission. To obtain Competition Silver Glove 1° the Savateur needs to achieve a minimum of 10 points, using the same points system described above. A minimum of 2 victories are required in this points tally. For each additional degree, the fighter needs to gain 10 additional points with at least 2 victories each time.

Following the acquisition of the 3° Silver Glove the competitor can enter the national series.

Gant Bronze - Competition

(Pre-Combat)

Gant D'Argent - 1° - Competition

(Combat)

Gant D'Argent - 2° - Competition

(Combat)

Gant D'Argent - 3° - Competition

(Combat)

Gant D'Argent - 4° - Competition

(Combat)

Gant D'Argent - 5° - Competition

(Combat)

Instructor Rank Structure

Shown below are the Instructor rank patches for the Initiateur and Moniteur levels of instructor

In Savate there are four ranks of Instructor, although the grade Arbitre is for Judges and Referees. Shown below are the French Federation rank patches for Arbitre and Professeur. Traditionally, the Initiateur rank is an Assistant Instructor or Provisional Instructor ranking and Moniteur is a club instructor. Instructor ranking is only achieved after having completed an instructor training programme comprising 8 compulsory and 2 optional units. The rank of Red Glove is a mandatory requirement for starting instructor training

THE GRADING PROCESS

It is to the student's advantage to pick a partner of similar size and to practice with this partner regularly before taking a grade.
All gradings are carried out before a panel of three examiners and involve:

Set Moves - Attack & Defend procedures.
Themed “Assaut” - Light contact sparring under a set “theme”.
Free “Assaut” - Light contact sparring.

SET MOVES.

For this section the pair of students are given roughly 30 seconds to demonstrate a “set move” from the syllabus sheets. Both students must show the roles of attacker and defender

THEMED ASSAUT

Once again both students are required to demonstrate the roles of attacker and defender.

Grading Requirements

Blue Glove testing requirements

Execution of the fundamental blows in a situation with a partner in motion and in a limited area.

Section A - SET MOVES

Person A

Person B

1. Move to correct distance and deliver Chasse Frontal bas using front leg
   

Avoid by moving leg inwards (left over right)

2) Move to the correct distance and deliver Fouette median using front leg

Block by dropping elbow and covering with fore-arm

3) Sidestep (decalage) and deliver Fouette median using front leg.

Block using forearms and reply with Chasse Lateral bas

4) Sidestep (Decalage) and deliver Fouette median using rear leg

Block or avoid being hit by moving and reply using same technique.

5) Move to correct distance and Jab to the face

Block or parry and reply using same technique.

6) Move to the correct distance and deliver right cross to the head

Avoid being touched by moving the body only (slip) and reply using the same technique

7) Move to the correct distance and deliver Chasse Lateral or Frontal bas using the rear leg.

Avoid being touched by moving to side (Decalage) and reply with Fouette median (either leg)

8) Move to the correct distance and deliver Revers Median (frontal or lateral) using front leg.

Block and reply with fouette bas using rear leg

9) Move to the correct distance and deliver coup de pied bas using rear leg

Avoid being touched by lifting leg and reply with any one of the following techniques: Fouette median, Chasse bas or right cross to the head

10) Move to correct distance and deliver Chasse Lateral median

Parry and reply using Fouette bas using either leg

Section B - THEMED ASSAUT  (2 x 1 minute rounds)

1. Simple attacks to leg or body targets only

2. Avoid, block or parry

Instructors to determine which two `single' techniques can be used from this list: Jab, cross, fouette, chasse, revers or coup de pied bas

Section C - FREE ASSAUT  (2 x 1 minute rounds)

1. Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

2. Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

Section D - COMBINATIONS

1. Chasse Lateral bas + Fouette median (Same leg)

2. Fouette median rear leg + sidestep Fouette median front leg

3. Right cross to the head + left jab to the head + Fouette median using front leg

4. Revers Lateral median front leg + left jab and right cross to the head

5. Coup de pied bas + sidestep Chasse bas with other leg.

Green Glove testing requirements

Acquisition of a correct coordination in the simple combination (in a situation with a partner in a limited area) and mastering a static balance.

Section A - SET MOVES

Person A

Person B

1) Move to the correct distance and deliver Chasse median (Lateral or Frontal) using rear leg

Parry or block + reply with any singular technique ( Punch or Kick)

2) Move to correct distance and deliver Revers Lateral median using rear leg

Parry or block + reply with any singular technique (Punch or Kick)

3) Move to correct distance and deliver Fouette bas using rear leg

Avoid being touched and reply with same technique

4) Move to correct distance and deliver right hook to head

Avoid being touched using `bob and weave' + reply either left hook or right uppercut to the body

5) Move to correct distance and deliver Revers Lateral bas with front leg

Avoid being touched by lifting leg + reply with right cross

6) Move to correct distance and deliver left jab to the body

Parry using right forearm + reply left jab to the head

7) Move to correct distance and deliver right cross to body

Parry using left forearm + reply right hook to head

8) Move to correct distance and deliver Coup de pied bas (sweep front leg)

Avoid by lifting leg + reply Fouette median using rear leg

9) Move to correct distance and deliver Revers Tournant Lateral median or figure

Parry in `opposition' then reply with hook using other arm

10) Move to correct distance and deliver Chasse Tournant Lateral bas or median

Parry in `opposition' and reply with rear hand swing

Section B - THEME ASSAUT  (2 x 1 Minute rounds)

Round 1

A = Attack using any kick technique

B = Parry or avoid then reply with any technique

Round 2

A = Attack using any punch technique

B = Parry or avoid then reply with any technique

Section C - FREE ASSAUT  (2 x 1 Minute rounds)

A . Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

B. Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

 Section D - COMBINATIONS

1. Coup de pied bas + double Fouette median using same leg

2. Right cross to the head + Chasse Frontal median front leg

3. Revers median rear leg, land forward (right stance) + left jab to head

4. Fouette bas + Chasse median (same leg)

5. Left jab + Left hook to head + right hook to head

6. Revers Lateral bas front leg, sidestep + Chasse median other leg

7. Double jab to head + right cross to body

8. Jab to head + right hook to head + jab to body

9. Jab to head + Coup de pied bas (sweep front leg)

10. Revers Lateral bas + Fouette median (same leg)

Red Glove testing requirements

Demonstrate mastery of dynamic balance in a situation with a partner in motion and in a limited area

Person A

Person B

Section A - SET MOVES

1. Move to correct distance and deliver right hook to head

Block using front arm and reply with same technique

2. Move to correct distance and deliver left hook to head

Avoid being touched by moving body only and reply left jab to head

3. `Skip' into Chasse median

Avoid being touched by moving inside and reply with Chasse bas using front leg

4. `Skip' into Fouette to head using front leg

Block and at same time deliver Chasse Lateral bas using front leg

5. Move to correct distance and deliver Revers Frontal using rear leg

Avoid being touched by moving body only and reply with Fouette using front leg

6. Move to correct distance and deliver right hook to body

Block using front forearm, then decalage and deliver right cross to head

7. Move to correct distance and deliver left hook to body

Block using rear arm then decalage and deliver left and right hooks to head

8. Deliver `jumping' Fouette median using front leg

Block with rear arm and reply Coup de pied bas (sweep) using rear leg

9. `Skip' into Chasse bas using front leg

Avoid being touched by moving to the outside and then reply with jab and cross to head

10. Move to correct distance and deliver Revers Tournant bas

Avoid being touched by moving backwards then reply with `skip' Chasse

Section B - THEME ASSAUT  (2 x 1.30 Minute rounds)

A = Attack using any two move combination attack (must be K+K, K+P, P+K or P+P)

B = Parry or avoid then reply with any one move counter attack

Section C - FREE ASSAUT  (3 x 1.30 Minute rounds)

A . Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

B. Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

Section D - COMBINATIONS

1. Right hook + left hook

2. `Skip' Chasse median front leg + Fouette rear leg

3. `Skip' Fouette Median, place foot down + Chasse tournant median

4. Revers Frontal front leg + jab/cross + Coup de pied bas

5. Coup de pied bas (attack) + jumping Fouette to head with other leg

6. Left hook to head + right uppercut to body + left jab to head

7. Fouette using front leg + right cross, alter distance + left hook hook to head

8. Fouette bas using rear leg + jumping Fouette median using front leg

9. Jumping Chasse bas using front leg + jab/cross to body

10. Revers tournant bas, place foot to side + Fouette median with other leg + right cross to head.

White Glove Testing Requirements

Section A - SET MOVES

Mastery of distance in all combinations (in a situation with a partner, in motion and in a limited area)

Person A

Person B

1. Jumping Chasse bas using front leg + Revers Frontal figure using rear leg + jab/cross

Block or avoid kicks then reply with uppercut using rear arm + any other single technique

2. Right cross to head + left jab to head + Revers Frontal tournant using rear leg + Coup de pied bas.

Avoid being touched by moving backwards, reply with jumping Chasse bas using rear leg + any punch technique

3. Not specified

4. Deliver jumping Revers Lateral to head using front leg + Chasse median using rear leg

Avoid the Revers, parry the Chasse and then reply with Revers Lateral tournant bas

5. Deliver a Chasse Lateral tournant bas + Fouette median with other leg + double right cross + jab to head

Escape from the Chasse, block the Fouette and punches then reply with jab to head + Chasse Frontal bas using front leg

6. Deliver a jumping Fouette bas using front leg + sidestep + right hook + jab to head

Avoid Fouette and block all punches then reply with hook to head using right hand + Revers figure using front leg

7. `Skip' into Coup de pied bas + deliver jumping Fouette median using other leg + Chasse Lateral bas with same leg

Avoid by jumping backwards and changing stance then reply with junping Fouette to any target using front leg.

8. Deliver a Chasse Frontal median using rear leg + jumping Fouette using front leg

Avoid being touched without moving feet then reply with jab to body with left hand

9. Deliver a jab/cross to head, Fouette bas using front leg the Fouette to head with other leg

Block the punches then avoid being touched by the kicks, then reply with Chasse Lateral to body using front leg + spinning Revers Lateral to head with other leg.

10.Deliver jab to body + Fouette bas using front leg

Parry the punch using forearm, avoid the kick by lifting your leg out of the way then deliver Fouette to body using front leg + cross/jab + Chasse Lateral to body using rear leg.

Section B - THEME ASSAUT  (2 x 2 Minute rounds change `role' after 1 min)

Round 1

A = Attack using any two punch combination

B = Parry or avoid then reply with any two techniques

Round 2

A = Attack using any two kick combination

B = Avoid being touched and then reply with any two techniques

Section C - FREE ASSAUT  (3 x 2 Minute rounds)

A . Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

B. Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

Yellow Glove testing requirements

The ability to control the body to execute all the blows in combination (in a situation with 2 people in the ring).

Section A - SET MOVES

Person A

Person B

1. Jump into Chasse Lateral bas using rear leg + spinning Chasse median using other leg.

Block and counter with spinning Revers to head using rear leg

2. Jumping Fouette bas using rear leg + Fouette figure same leg, place foot forward then deliver right uppercut to body + left hook to head

Avoid Kicks, block punch, bob and weave to avoid hook and counter with right hand uppercut to body + right hook to head

3. Jumping Revers Lateral to head using rear leg + jumping Chasse median using same leg + right cross to head.

Avoid kicks, `slip' the right cross and counter with left hook + right hand uppercut to body.

4. Chasse Frontal to head using front leg + jumping Chasse median using other leg.

Parry the Chasse and counter with Chasse Lateral bas using left leg and right hook to head

5. Left jab to face, right cross to body + Chasse Frontal to head using left leg

Avoid being touched by the kicks and counter with any technique

6. Jumping Revers Lateral to head using left leg + left jab to head + right cross to body + sidestep and deliver Fouette median (or figure) with rear leg

Avoid first kick + block, parry or avoid the punches + parry kick in opposition and counter with Chasse Frontal median (or figure) using rear leg

7. Jumping, spinning Revers Lateral to body + double Fouette median using other leg.

Block and parry then counter with spinning Chasse median

8. Jab to head, Chasse Frontal bas using rear leg, sidestep then deliver Chasse Lateral to body with front leg, without putting the foot down use Revers Lateral to remove opponents guard, deliver right cross to head

Section B - THEME ASSAUT  (2 x 1.30 Minute rounds )

Parry or avoid being touched then reply

Round 1

A = Attack using any two kick combination

B = Parry or avoid then reply with any two punch combination

Round 2

A = Attack using any two punch combination

B = Parry or avoid being touched and then reply with any two kick combination

Section C - FREE ASSAUT  (4 x 1.30 Minute rounds)

A . Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

B. Attack and defend under `assaut' conditions

Terminology

ALLEZ! - Begin!
ARBITRE - Referee
ARME - Ready position before a kick
ARRIERE - Rear, Behind, Backward motion
ASSAUT - Light contact contest emphasizing technical skill
AUTORISE - Allowed, authorised
BAS - Low (level)
BALANCE - Leg swing
BLOQUEE - Block
BOXE - Boxing
BRAS - Arm
CASQUE - Head guard
CHASSE - Driving or forcing away
CHASSE LATERAL - Side kick - using the heel of the shoe to 'smash'
CHASSE D'ARRET - A stopping kick to the body
CHAUSSURE - Footwear
COIN - Corner
COMBAT - Full-power contest
COMPTE - Count
COQUILLE - Box (Protector)
CORPS - Body
COUP - Blow
COUP DE PIED - Kick
COUP DE PIED BAS - Low kick - using the inside arch of the shoe to 'cut' or sweep
COUP DE POING - Punch
CROCHET Bras Avant - Hook (punch) with the front hand
Bras Arriere - Hook (punch) with the rear hand
CROISE - Crossed
DEPLACEMENT - Distancing movement or motion - also DECALAGE
DIRECT Bras Avant - Lead hand Straight punch (Jab) - also DU GAUCHE
DIRECT Bras Arriere - Rear hand Straight punch (Cross) - also DU DROIT
DROIT - Right
ENCEINTE - Ring
ENCHAINEMENT - Sequence of blows, combination
ESQUIVE - Avoiding technique, such as 'slipping' or 'bob & weave'
FIGURE - Face
FLANC - Side
FOUETTE - Whip - using the toe of the shoe to 'stab' when kicking
FRAPPE - Strike
FRONTAL - Front, or to the front
GANT - Glove, or with colour to indicate grade (as shown below)
Bleu = blue; Vert = green; Rouge = red; Blanc = white; Jaune = yellow
GARDE - Guard position
GAUCHE - Left
GROUPE - Chambering the leg (ready position) before a kick
HANCHE - Hip
HAUT, EN HAUT - High (level)
HORS COMBAT - Knockout (KO), or unable to continue
INTEGRALE - One-piece suit
INTERDIT - Forbidden
INTERIEURE - Inside
JAMBE - Leg
JAMBE TENDUE - Straight or outstretched leg
JAMBIERE - Shin pad
LATERAL - Sideways
MARCHE-CROISE - Cross-step (in front of, or behind, the lead leg)
MEDIAN - Middle (level)
NON COMBAT - No decision - where both fighters are disqualified, or the match is abandoned due to spectator behaviour for example
PARADE - Blocking technique
PESEE - Weighing
PIED - Foot
POING - Fist
PRE-COMBAT - Middle category contest with full contact & full protection
PROTEGE-DENTS - Mouth guard, gum shield
REGLEMENTS - Rules, regulations
RECONTRE - Match
REMISE - Counter with the same technique
REPRISE - a Round - usually one, one and a half, or two minutes
REVERS FRONTAL - Outside crescent kick, cutting with the outside edge of the shoe - keeping the kicking leg straight throughout
REVERS LATERAL - Turning (spinning) kick, with a straight leg throughout
REVERS Jambe Tendue - Reverse whip kick, slapping with the sole of the shoe
RIPOSTE - Counter (immediate)
SAUT - Jump
SOIGNEUR - Second, ring attendant
SWING Bras Avant - A front-hand thumb down long-arm curving punch
Bras Arriere - The same punch delivered with the rear hand
TENDUE - Straight
TENUE - Costume
TIREUR, TIREUSE (f) - Boxer
TOURNANT - Turning

Contacts

Great Britain Savate Federation (GBSF)

PO Box 29

Cambridge

CB1 3HF

Email: [e-mail]

Martin Ross - GBSF National Director of Technique and Development

[e-mail]

Ollie Batts - GBSF President

[e-mail]

Federation Internationale de Savate

www.fisavate.com

French Federation

www.ffsavate.com

Acknowledgements

My thanks to Martin Ross for allowing me to use material from his website -

www.savate-uk.com

My thanks to Ollie Batts for allowing me to use material from his website also -

www.savate.net

My thanks to Dr Julie Gabriel for proof reading and advice

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