I agree. I think because I had never done any MA before, it has all been really new to me, and definitely takes time to get practising "real" technique in sparring. Our teacher is getting us to think about using technique when sparring now, which is all kind of beginning to make sense. I'm also trying to do more work without the pads, just to start thinking properly about what Im using. i'm realising now that it does take time , and getting used to hitting someone, which isnt natural ,to me anyway, takes time . It's a really good point abot not being all about winning. One of the guys who I dont want to spar with is all about hte winning at the moment, and doesnt really seem to try out new techniques, but just throwing big punches and spinning kicks that he hasnt got the hang of yet!