Kumite Scoring
A score is awarded when a technique is performed according to the following criteria to a scoring area:
2. Sporting Attitude
Sporting Attitude is a component of good form and refers to a non-malicious attitude of great concentration obvious during delivery of the scoring technique.
1. Good Form
A technique with “Good Form” is said to have characteristics conferring probable effectiveness within the framework of traditional Karate concepts.
3. Vigorous Application
Vigorous Application defines the power and speed of the technique and the palpable will for it to succeed.
4. Zanshin
Zanshin is that criterion most often missed when a score is assessed. It is the state of continued commitment in which the contestant maintains awareness of the opponent's potentiality to counter-attack. I.e.: He does not turn his face away during delivery of the technique, and remains facing the opponent afterwards.
5. Good Timing
Good Timing means delivering a technique when it will have the greatest potential effect.
6. Correct Distance
Correct Distance similarly means delivering a technique at the precise distance where it will have the greatest potential effect. Thus if the technique is delivered on an opponent who is rapidly moving away, the potential effect of that blow is reduced.
7. Distancing
Distancing also relates to the point at which the completed technique comes to rest on or near the target. A punch or kick that comes somewhere between skin touch and 5 centimetres from the face, head, or neck may be said to have the correct distance. However, Jodan techniques, which come within 5 centimetres distance of the target and which the opponent makes no attempt to block or avoid will be scored, provided the technique meets the other criteria. In Cadet and Junior competition no contact to the head, face, or neck, is allowed other than a very light touch (previously known as a “skin touch”) for Jodan kicks and the scoring distance is increased up to 10 centimetres.
Lightweight
Elasticated waistband for optimal comfort
Breathable
Freedom of movement
Category 1
1. Techniques which make excessive contact, having regard to the scoring area attacked, and techniques which make contact with the throat.
2. Attacks to the arms or legs, groin, joints, or instep.
3. Attacks to the face with open hand techniques.
4. Dangerous or forbidden throwing techniques.
1. Feigning, or exaggerating injury.
2. Exit from the competition area (JOGAI) not caused by the opponent.
3. Self-endangerment by indulging in behaviour, which exposes the Competitor to injury by the opponent, or failing to take adequate measures for self-protection, (MUBOBI).
4. Avoiding combat as a means of preventing the opponent having the opportunity to score.
5. Passivity – not attempting to engage in combat. (Cannot be given if there is less than 15 seconds left of the bout.)
6. Clinching, wrestling, pushing, or standing chest to chest without attempting a scoring technique or takedown.
7. Grabbing the opponent with both hands for any other reasons than executing a takedown upon catching the opponents kicking leg.
8. Grabbing the opponent’s arm or karategi with one hand without immediately attempting a scoring technique or takedown.
9. Techniques, which by their nature, cannot be controlled for the safety of the opponent and dangerous and uncontrolled attacks.
10. Simulated attacks with the head, knees, or elbows.
11. Talking to, or goading the opponent, failing to obey the orders of the Referee, discourteous behaviour towards the Refereeing officials, or other breaches of etiquette.
