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Sport

USANKF Sport Karate Rules

 

KUMITE RULES

 

ARTICLE 1 : COMPETITION AREA

1.1 The competition area must be flat and devoid of hazard.

1.2 The competition are must be a matted square in all Team Trials competitions for selection of competitors for a United States National Team; for other tournaments or events, the use of mats is optional.

1.3 The area will be a square, with sides of 8 meters (measured from the outside). Where mats are not used, the competition area may be defined by marking the boundaries with colored tape of appropriate thickness. The area may be elevated to a height of up to 1 meter above floor level. The elevated platform should measure at least 10 meters to a side, in order to include both the competition and the safety area.

1.4 Two parallel lines, each 1 meter long and at right angles to the Referee’s line, must be drawn at a distance if 1.5 meters from the center of the competition area for positioning the competitors. Such lines may be laid down with colored tape of appropriate thickness.

1.5 A line of 0.5 meters long must be drawn 2 meters from the center of the competition area for positioning the Referee. Such lines may be laid down with colored tape of appropriate thickness.

1.6 The arbitrator shall be seated beside the scorekeeper and timekeeper.

1.7 A line must be drawn one meter on the inside of the competition area. The area enclosed by this line may be a different color, or the line itself may be broken. Such lines may be laid down with colored tape of appropriate thickness.

1.8 The terms and abbreviations as detailed in Appendix 3 shall be used by all scorekeepers and arbitrators for recording the progress, points, and penalties in any match conducted according to these rules:

EXPLANATION: There must be no advertising signs, sign boards, walls, pillars, or other physical obstruction within one meter of the outer perimeter of the competition area.

1.9 The mats used at any Team Trials competition must be substantially similar to those mats standardly used in WKF sanctioned international competition and should be non-slip where they contact the floor proper, but have a low coefficient of friction on the upper surface. They should not be as thick as "Judo" mats, since these impede Karate movement. The Referee must ensure that mat modules so not move apart during the competition, since gaps constitute a hazard and may cause injuries.

 


ARTICLE 2: OFFICIAL DRESS

2.1 All officials, contestants and their coaches must wear the official uniform as herein defined.

2.2 The Referee Council may disbar any official or competitor who does not comply with this regulation. In cases of a minor deviation from the official uniform, the Referee Council may allow participation of the official or competitor, provided that the deviation does not distract from the dignity of the competition, or prejudice any other official or competitor.

REFEREES
2.3.1 Referees and Judges must wear the official uniform designated by the Referee Council. This uniform must be worn at and during all tournaments and courses. No person shall officiate in any competition wearing a GI, or any part thereof.

2.3.2 The official uniform for Referees and Judges will be as follows:

  • A single breasted navy-blue blazer bearing two silver buttons.
  • A white shirt with long or short sleeves, depending on prevailing climatic conditions.
  • An official tie worn without tie pin.
  • Plain light grey trousers without cuffs.
  • Unpatterned dark blue or black socks, and black slip on shoes for use during the match.

CONTESTANTS
2.4.1a All contestants must wear a white unmarked Karate GI without stripes or piping. At the USA-NKF National Championships and any United States Team Trials competitions, only the USA-NKF emblem may be worn at the election of the competitor. This must be on the left breast of the GI jacket and shall not exceed an overall size of 10 cm2. There shall be no effect on scoring whether or not a competitor elects to display such emblem on the jacket. Only the original manufacturers labels may be displayed on the GI and in the normally accepted locations (i.e. bottom right corner of the GI jacket, and waist position of the trousers). For all other tournaments and competitions, a contestant may wear a single patch or emblem identifying their respective Karate organization, school, or system on the left breast area of the jacket. Such patch or emblem shall not exceed an overall size of 10 cm2, and shall not be a design or symbol which is offensive to the dignity of the match, unsportsmanlike, or contrary to the principles of Karate-do.

In addition, an identifying number issued by the Tournament Organizing Committee may be worn on the back, sleeve, or breast area of the GI jacket as established by the Organizing Committee. One contestant must wear a red belt or sash, and the other a blue belt or sash. The blue and red belts must be around 5 cm wide and of a length sufficient to allow 15 cm free on each side of the knot.

2.4.1b Notwithstanding paragraph 1a above, with the prior written approval of the USA-NKF, the Tournament Directing Committee may authorize the display of special labels or trademarks, of approved sponsors.

2.5 The GI jacket, when tightened around the waist with the belt, must be of minimum length that covers the hips, but no longer than mid-thigh. A female contestant may elect to wear a plain white T-shirt or leotard beneath the GI jacket. Male contestants may not wear any shirt of any kind or color underneath the GI jacket without the prior consent of the Tournament Referee Council.

2.6 The maximum length of the GI jacket sleeves must be no longer than the bend of the wrist and no shorter than halfway down the forearm. Jacket sleeves may not be tolled up, either on the outside or inside of the sleeve.

2.7 The GI trousers must be long enough to cover at least two-thirds of the shin, and may not be rolled up, either on the outside or inside of the leg.

2.8 Each contestant must keep their hair clean and cut to a length that does not obstruct smooth bout conduct or present a safety hazard to competitors. Hachimaki (headband) of any kind will not be allowed. Should the Referee consider any contestant’s hair too long and/ or unclean, the Referee may, with the Referee Council’s approval, disqualify the contestant from the bout. In Kumite matches hair slides ("scrunchies")are prohibited, as are metal hair clips ("barrettes"). In Kata a discreet hair clip is permitted.

2.9 Contestants must have short fingernails, and must not wear jewelry or other objects which might injure their opponents.

2.10 Fist pads and gum shields are compulsory in all Divisions. Competitors shall supply one pair of fist pads in red, and one pair in blue. In all divisions, groin protectors (cups) are required for male competitors, and soft shin pads which do not cover the instep of the foot are allowed.

For all adult Advanced Kumite divisions and Junior National Team Trials divisions, the following restrictions apply:

1. Instep protectors are forbidden; shin protectors which do not cover the foot are allowed;
2. Glasses are forbidden ( soft contact lenses can be worn at the contestant’s own discretion);
3. The wearing of unauthorized clothing or equipment is forbidden;
4. Women may wear the authorized additional protective equipment for the chest area.
For all other divisions, an athlete may elect to wear shatterproof, safety athletic goggles of an approved design.

For Junior Beginner, Novice and Intermediate Kumite divisions, under 14 years of age, a competitor may elect to use a soft foam head protector, provided that such protector is a solid color, and of an approved design which does not impede the ability of the athlete to score or be scored upon.

2.12 Any protective equipment must meet standard specifications and be an approved design.

2.13 The use of tape, bandages, or soft elastic braces because of injury must be approved by the Referee Council, on the advice of the official Doctor. No braces which include any metallic parts shall be used. No tape shall be applied in more than a single layer on the hands or feet of any competitor, as this creates an unfair advantage and increases the risk of injury to an opponent. The Referee may disqualify any competitor who attempts to compete with excessive taping of the hands or feet.

COACHES
2.14 A coach shall at all times during the tournament, wear a tracksuit and display the coach’s license.

EXPLANATION
1. The contestant must wear a single belt. This will be red if the athlete is the "AKA" fighter, and blue if "Shiro". Belts of grandee or rank should not be worn during the bout, unless a colored sash is utilized in place of a red or blue belt.

2. Red or blue protective mitts (fist-pads) approved by the USA-NKF, with an uncovered thumb must be worn. The padding must not be capable of displacement.

3. The design of any mitts must be approved by the USA-NKF Board of Directors on the recommendation of the Medical Committee and the Referee Committee.

4. Gum shields (mouth-guards) must be properly fitted by a dentist. Groin protectors using a removable plastic cup slipped into a jockstrap will not be permitted, and the persons found wearing them will be penalized.

5. There may well be a religious basis for the wearing of certain items such as turbans. Persons wishing, by virtue of their religion, to wear what would otherwise be construed as unauthorized clothing must notify the Referee Council in advance of a tournament. The Referee Council will examine each application on its merit. No accommodation will be made for people who neglect to notify the Referee Council in advance, and expect to be allowed to participate in violation of these rules.

6. If an athlete comes in to the match area inappropriately dressed, he or she will not be immediately disqualified; instead the competitor will be given one minute to remedy matters.

7. If the Referee Council agrees, Refereeing Officials may be allowed to remove their blazers while officiating a match.

 


ARTICLE 3 : ORGANIZATION OF KUMITE COMPETITIONS

3.1 A Karate tournament may comprise Kumite competition and/ or Kata competition, including Kobudo divisions. The Kumite competition may be further divided into the team match and the individual match. The individual match may be further divided into weight divisions and an open weight category. Weight divisions are divided ultimately into bouts. The term "bout" also describes the individual Kumite competitions between opposing pairs of team members.

3.2 In team matches, each team must have an odd number of contestants.

3.3 The contestants are all members of a team. There are no fixed reserves.

3.4 Before each match, a team representative must hand in to the official table, an official form defining the names and fighting order of the team members. The fighting order can be changed for each round, but once notified it cannot then be changed.

3.5 A team will be disqualified if any of its members or its coach changes the team’s composition without submitting the written fighting order.

3.6 In the first round of a team match, a team will be allowed to participate only when it presents the prescribed number of competitors.

3.7 No contestant may be replaced by another in an individual title match.

3.8 Individual contestants or teams that do not arrive at the competition venue before the tournament is declared open will be disqualified from participation in that tournament.

EXPLANATION
1. A "round" is a discrete stage in a competition leading to the eventual indication of finalists. In an elimination Kumite competition, a round eliminates fifty percent of contestants within it, counting byes as contestants. In this context, the round can apply equally to a stage in either primary elimination or repechage. In a matrix, or "round robin" competition, a round allows all contestants in a pool to fight once.

2. The use of contestant’s names causes problems of pronunciation and identification. Tournament numbers should be allotted and used.

3. When lining up before a match, a team will present the actual fighters. The unused fighter(s) and the Coach will not be included and shall sit in an area set aside for them.

4. The fighting order form can be presented by the Coach, or a nominated contestant from the team. If the coach hands in the form, he/ she must be clearly identifiable as such, otherwise it may be rejected. The list must include the name of the country/ club, the belt color allotted to the team for that match, and the order of the fighters from one to five. Both the fighters names and their tournament numbers must be included and the form signed by the coach, or nominated person.

5. If through an error in charting, the wrong contestants compete, then regardless of the outcome, that match is declared null and void. To reduce such errors, the winner of each bout/ match must confirm victory with the control table before leaving the area.

 

ARTICLE 4 : THE REFEREE PANEL

4.1 The Refereeing Panel for each match shall consist of one Referee (Shushin), three Judges (Fukushin), and one Arbitrator (Kansa).

4.2 In addition, for the purpose if facilitating the operation of matches, several timekeepers, caller-announcers, and record-keepers shall be appointed.

EXPLANATION
1. At the start of a Kumite match, the Referee stands on the outside edge of the official match area. On the Referee’s left stand Judges number 1 and 2, on the right stands the Arbitrator and Judge number 3.

2. After the formal exchange of bows by contestants and Referee Panel, the Referee takes a step back and the Judges turn inwards and all bow together.

3. Changing the Referee Panel - The departing Officials take one step forward, turn around and face the incoming Panel. They bow to each other on the command of the incoming Referee and in one line (facing the same direction) leave the competition area.

4. Changing an individual Judge - the incoming Judge goes to the outgoing Judge, they bow together and change positions.


ARTICLE 5 : DURATION OF A BOUT

5.1 Duration of the Kumite bout is defined as two minutes (stop time) for ages 14 and over (both team and individuals), and one and one-half minutes for ages 13 and under. The first competitor to reach eight points, or who is ahead on points when "Time" is called, shall be declared the winner, and the bout terminated.

In adult Advanced (WKF) Kumite divisions, the bout shall be three minutes (stop time) for men, and two minutes (stop time) for women, with scoring according to Section 13 of these rules.

5.2 The timing of the bout starts when the Referee gives the signal to start and stops each time he/ she calls "Yame". In any Beginner, Novice, or Intermediate division, the Referee Council may determine that "running time" shall be utilized to conduct such divisions.

5.3 The timekeeper shall give signals by a clearly audible gong or buzzer indicating "30 seconds to go", or "Time up". The "Time Up" signal marks the end of the bout.

 

ARTICLE 6 : SCORING

6.1 The scores are as follows:

1) SANBON Three Points
2) NIHON Two Points
3) IPPON One Point

6.2 A score is awarded when a technique is performed according to the following criteria to a scoring area:

a) Good form
b) Sporting attitude
c) Vigorous application
d) Awareness (Zanshin)
e) Good timing
f) Correct distance

6.3 SANBON is awarded for:

a) Jodan kicks;
b) Throwing or leg sweeping the opponent to the mat followed by a scoring technique.

6.4 NIHON is awarded for:

a) Chudan kicks;
b) Deflecting an attack and scoring to the unguarded back of the opponent;
c) Combination hand techniques, the individual components of which each score in their own right;
d) Unbalancing the opponent and scoring;
e) Successfully scoring at the precise moment the opponent attacks.

6.5 IPPON is awarded for:

a) Chudan or Jodan Tsuki;
b) Uchi.
The Refereeing Panel must look for Nihons in the first instance and only award an Ippon in the second instance.

6.6 Attacks are limited to the following areas:

a) Head
b) Face
c) Neck
d) Abdomen
e) Chest
f) Back
g) Side

6.7 A victory over an opponent who has been given a Hansoku or Shikkaku will be worth Kachi. If a contestant is absent, withdraws, or is withdrawn, the opponent will be credited with a win by Kiken.

6.8 An effective technique delivered at the same time as the end of a bout is signaled, is considered valid. An attack, even if effective, delivered after an order to suspend or stop the bout shall not be scored any may result in a penalty being imposed on the offender.

6.9 No technique, even if technically correct, will be scored if it is delivered when the two contestants are outside the competition area. However, if one of the opponents delivers an effective technique while still inside the competition area and before the Referee calls "Yame", the technique will be scored.

6.10 Simultaneous effective scoring techniques delivered by both contestants, the one on the other (Aiuchi) shall not score.


EXPLANATION:
1. Grabbing the opponent and throwing may be attempted only after a genuine attempt at a karate striking technique is made first, or as a counter to an opponent who has attacked and attempted to throw or clinch.

2. For reasons of safety, throws where the opponent is thrown without being held onto, or thrown dangerously, or where the pivot point is above hip level, are prohibited and will incur a warning or penalty. Exceptions are conventional karate leg sweeping techniques, which do not require the opponent to be held while executing the sweep such as De Ashi-Barai, KO Uchi Gari, Kani Waza, etc. After a throw has been executed the Referee will allow the contestant two to three seconds in which to attempt a scoring technique.

3. A technique with "Good Form" is said to have characteristics conferring probable effectiveness within the framework of traditional Karate concepts.

4. Sporting Attitude is a component of good form and refers to a non-malicious attitude of great concentration which is obvious during delivery of the scoring technique.

5. Vigorous Application defines the power an speed of the technique and the palpable will for it to succeed; nothing is held back.

6. Awareness (Zanshin) is that criterion most often missed when a score is assessed. It is the state of continued commitment in which the contestant maintains total concentration, observation, and awareness of the opponent’s potentiality to counterattack. He does not turn his face away during delivery of the technique, and remains facing the opponent afterwards, continuing with proper form.

7. Good Timing means delivering a technique when it will have the greatest potential effect.

8. 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.

9. Distancing also relates to the point at which the completed technique comes to rest on or near the target. To score, the technique must have the potential to penetrate deep into the target, so straight arm punches are seen as having a low potential in this respect and must be evaluated accordingly. A punch or kick that comes somewhere between skin touch and 2-3 centimeters from the face, may be said to have the correct distance. However, Jodan punches, which come from a reasonable 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.

10. A worthless technique is a worthless technique - regardless of where and how it is delivered. A technique which is badly deficient in good form, or lacking power, will score nothing. However, in order to encourage technically difficult techniques, the Referee should lean toward awarding Ippon or Nihon for them, even if there is a slight deficiency in good form; as long as it is only slight. As a simple rule of thumb, techniques which would normally merit an Ippon are scored as Nihon if they are scheduled as "technically difficult". Deflecting an attack and delivering a good technique to any unguarded target area of the opponent’s body can be scored as Nihon - not just attacks to the opponent’s unguarded back.

11. Combination attacks are those sequences of techniques which each individually merit at least an Ippon, occurring in rapid succession.

12. Techniques which land below the belt may score, as long as they are above the pubic bone. The neck is a target area and so is the throat. However, no contact to the throat is permitted, although a score may be awarded for a properly controlled technique, which does not touch.

13. A technique which lands upon the shoulder blades may score. The non-scoring part of the shoulder is the junction of the upper bone of the arm with the shoulder blade and collarbone.

14. The time up bell signals the end of scoring possibilities in that bout, even though the Referee may inadvertently not halt the bout immediately. However, the time up bell does not mean that penalties cannot be imposed. Penalties can be imposed by the Refereeing Panel up to the point where the contestants leave the area after the bout’s conclusion. Penalties can be imposed after that, but only by the Referee Council.

15. True Aiuchis are rare. Not only must two techniques land simultaneously, but both must be valid scoring techniques, each with good form, etc. Two techniques may well land simultaneously, but seldom are both, if indeed either, effective scores. The Referee must not dismiss as Aiuchi, a situation where only one of the simultaneous pair is actually a score. This is not Aiuchi.

 

ARTICLE 7 : CRITERIA FOR DECISION

The result of a bout is determined by a contestant obtaining a clear lead of eight points, or at time-up, having the highest number of points, obtaining a decision (Hantei), or by a Hansoku, Shikkaku, or Kiken imposed against a contestant.

7.1 When a bout ends with equal scores, or no scores, the winner will be decided by vote of the Referee Panel (Hantei). The decision is taken on the basis of the following:

a) The attitude, fighting spirit and strength demonstrated by the contestants;
b) The superiority of tactics and techniques displayed;
c) Which of the contestants has initiated the majority of the action.

7.2 In individual bouts, if there is a tie, then the decision for that bout shall be a draw (Hikiwake), and an extension not exceeding one minute may be fought (Encho-Sen). An Encho-Sen is an extension of the bout, and all penalties and warnings issued in the initial bout carry over. The first competitor to obtain an award will be declared the winner. In the event that neither competitor is awarded a score during the Encho-Sen, the decision will be made by a final vote of the Referee Panel (Hantei). A decision in favor of one or the other competitor is obligatory.

7.3 In team competition, there will be no extension (Encho-Sen) in the event of drawn bouts.

7.4 The winning team is the one with the most bout victories. Should the two teams have the same number of bout victories, then the winning team will be the one with the most points, taking both winning and losing bouts into account.

7.5 If the two teams have the same number of bout victories and points, then a deciding bout will be held. The selectees must be nominated within one minute of the announcement of this bout and the persons making the nomination will be those who signed the original fighting order form for that match. In the event of a continuing tie, there will be an extension (Encho-Sen) not exceeding one minute. The first competitor to obtain a score wins. In the event that there is no score, the decision will be made by vote (Hantei).

7.6 In male team matches, a team which obtains a lead of three bout victories will be declared the winner at that point, or in the case of female teams, a lead of two bout victories.

EXPLANATION:
1. When scores are unequal, the contestant who completes the bout satisfactorily an Ippon or Nihon ahead of the opponent shall be given the victory.

2. Taking the above criteria into account, when superiority can be established, it is quite in order for one contestant to be given the victory, even when the score situation is equal.

3. When deciding the outcome of a bout by vote (Hantei), the Referee will move to the match area perimeter and call "Hantei", followed by a two-tone blast of the whistle. The Judges will indicate their opinions by means of their flags, and the Referee will at te same time indicate his own vote by raising the arm on the side of the preferred contestant.

4. In the event of a tied Encho-Sen, on returning to his original position, the Referee will place one arm across his chest and raise his bent arm on the side of the preferred choice to show he is using his casting vote. He will then indicate the winner in the normal way.

 

ARTICLE 8 : PROHIBITED BEHAVIOR

There are two categories of prohibited behavior, Category 1 and Category 2.

CATEGORY 1
1. Techniques which make excessive contact, having regard to the scoring area attacked. All techniques must be controlled. Any technique which impacts the head, face or neck and results in visible injury must be penalized, unless caused by the recipient.
2. Techniques which make contact with the throat.
3. Attacks to the arms or legs, groin, joints or instep.
4. Attacks to the face with open hand techniques (Teisho or Nukite).
5. Dangerous or forbidden throwing techniques, which cause injury; or which by their nature preclude or prejudice the opponent’s ability to land with safety.

CATEGORY 2
1. Feigning or exaggerating injury.
2. Repeated exits from the competition area (Jogai), or movements which waste too much time. Jogai relates to a situation where a contestant’s body, or part thereof touches the floor outside of the competition area. An exception is when the contestant is actually pushed or thrown from the area by his opponent
3. Self-endangerment by indulging in behavior, which exposes the contestant 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. Grabbing and attempting to throw or take down the opponent, without first making a genuine attack, except when the opponent has attempted to grab or throw first, and throwing techniques where the pivotal point is above hip-level.
6. Unnecessary clinching, wrestling, pushing, or seizing without attempting a striking technique.
7. Techniques which by their nature, cannot be controlled for the safety of the opponent and dangerous and uncontrolled attacks, whether they land or not.
8. Attacks with the head, knees or elbows.
9. Talking to, or goading the opponent, failing to obey the orders of the Referee, discourteous behavior towards the Refereeing Officials, or other breaches of etiquette.

EXPLANATION
1. Traditional Karate techniques delivered full-power can cause extremely serious injury, even death. Karate competition is a sport, and for that reason some of the most dangerous techniques are banned and all techniques must be controlled . Trained competitors can absorb relatively powerful blows on muscled areas such as the abdomen, but the fact remains that the head, face, neck, groin and joints are particularly susceptible to injury. The accidental kick in the groin can reduce the opponent’s potential for winning as surely as a deliberate one.

Therefore, any technique, which results in injury, may be penalized unless caused by the recipient. Foot sweeps which land high on the leg can cause knee injury. The Referee must assess the validity of any sweep-attack to the leg; an ineffectual but painful attack of this sort should be immediately penalized. The contestants must perform all techniques with control and good form. If they cannot, then regardless of the technique misused, a warning or penalty must be imposed.

2. Face Contact - Adults and Juniors 14 years old and older- Non-injurious, light, controlled "touch" contact to the face, head and neck is allowed; but not to the throat. "Touch" does not mean a solid impact. When assessing the contact force used, the Referee must take all circumstances into account. Did the victim exacerbate the impact of an otherwise controlled technique by an injudicious movement? This is the reason most often given for scoring what would otherwise appear to be excessive contact, but it must not be used as a justification for a bad assessment. The Referee must also consider the effects of a marked disparity in size between contestants - as can occur in a team match, or in an open weight bout.

Where contact is deemed by the Referee to be too strong, but does not diminish the competitor’s chances of winning, a warning (Chukoku) may be given. A second contact under the same circumstances will be penalized by Keikoku and Ippon (one point) will be given to the opponent. A third offense will be given Hansoku Chui and Nihon (two points) given to the injured competitor. A further offense will result in disqualification by Hansoku.

3. Face Contact - Cadets and Children 13 years old and younger - All hand techniques to the head, face and neck must have absolute control. Should the glove touch the target, the Referee Panel will not award a score , and should ordinarily give a penalty. Kicking techniques to the head, face and neck are allowed to make a light "skin touch" only. In the case of techniques which make contact considered to be more than a "glove" or "skin" touch, the Referee Panel will give a warning or penalty. Any technique to the head, face or neck which causes injury, no matter how slight, will be warned or penalized unless caused by the recipient.

4. The Referee must constantly observe the injured contestant. A short delay in giving a judgment allows injury symptoms such as a nosebleed to develop. Observation will also reveal any efforts by the contestant to aggravate slight injury for tactical advantage. Examples of this are blowing violently through an injured nose, or rubbing the face roughly with the back of a mitt.

5. Preexisting injury can produce symptoms out of all proportion to the degree of contact used and Referees must take this into account when considering penalties for seemingly excessive contact. For example, what appears to be a relatively light contact could result in a competitor being unable to continue due to the cumulative effect of injury sustained in an earlier bout. Before the start of a match or bout, the Match Area Controller must examine the medical cards and ensure that the contestants are fit to fight. The Referee must be informed if a contestant has been treated for injury.

6. Contestants who overreact to light contact, in an effort to have the Referee penalize their opponent, such as holding the face and staggering about, or falling unnecessarily, will be immediately warned or penalized themselves.

7. Feigning of an injury, which does not exist, is a serious infraction of the rules. Shikkaku will be imposed on the contestant feigning injury; i.e. when such things as collapse and rolling about on the floor are not supported by evidence of commensurate injury as reported by a neutral doctor. Exaggerating an injury, which does not exist is less serious. A warning or a penalty should be imposed for exaggerating injury.

8. Competitors who receive Shikkaku for feigning injury will be taken from the competition area and put directly into the hands of the Medical Committee, who will carry out an immediate examination of the competitor. The Medical Committee will submit its report before the end of the competition for the consideration of the Referee Council. Competitors who feign injury will be subject to the strongest penalties, up to and including suspension for life for repeated offenses.

9. The throat is a particularly vulnerable area and even the slightest contact will be warned or penalized, unless it is the recipient’s own fault.

10. The face is defined as covering an area which begins one centimeter above the eyebrows, extending down and including the temples, narrowing from the cheekbones, and finishing just under the chin.

11. Open hand techniques to the face are forbidden due to the danger to the contestant’s sight. The two open hand techniques referred to in Category 1 are merely examples of the class of prohibited techniques.

12. Throwing techniques are divided into two types. The established "conventional" Karate leg sweeping techniques such as De Ashi Barai, Ko Uchi Gari, etc., where the opponent is swept off balance or thrown without being grabbed first - and those throws requiring that the opponent be grabbed or held as the throw is executed. Such throws may be attempted only after a genuine attempt at a Karate striking technique is made first, or as a counter to an opponent who has attacked and attempted to throw or clinch.

The pivotal point of the throw must not be above the hip and the opponent must be held onto throughout, so that a safe landing can be made. Over the shoulder throws such as Seio Nage, Kata Garuma, etc., are expressly forbidden, as are so-called "sacrifice" throws such as Tomoe Nage, Sumi Gaeshi, etc. If an opponent is injured as a result of a throwing technique, the Referee Panel will decide whether a penalty is called for.

13. The point at which "Yame" is called is helpful in determining if Jogai has occurred. If Aka delivers a successful technique and then exits immediately afterwards, "Yame" should occur at the instant of score and the exit therefore occurs outside of bout time and may not be penalized. If Aka’s attempt to score is unsuccessful, "Yame" will not be called and the exit will be recorded. If Shiro exits just after Aka scores with a successful attack, then "Yame" will occur immediately on the score and Shiro’s exit will not be recorded. If Shiro exits, or has exited as Aka’s score is made (with Aka remaining within the area), then both Aka’s score will be awarded and Shiro’s Jogai penalty will be imposed.

14. Movements which waste time include pointless circling, where on or both contestants do not engage in combat. It is expected that they will initially test each other, but within a short time deliberate and effective attack and counters should occur. If for any reason this does not happen after a reasonable interval, the Referee must stop the bout and caution the offender(s).

15. The contestant who constantly retreats without effective counter, rather than allow the opponent an opportunity to score must be warned or penalized. This often occurs during the closing seconds of a bout. If the offense occurs within ten seconds or more of the bout time remaining, the Referee will warn the offender. If there has been a previous Category 2 offense or offenses, this will result in a penalty being imposed.

However, if there is less than ten seconds to go, the Referee will penalize the offender with Keikoku and award an Ippon to the opponent. If there has been a previous Category 2 offense or offenses, the contestant will receive the next penalty up on the penalty scale. However, the Referee must ensure that the contestant is not retreating because the opponent is acting in a reckless, or dangerous manner, in which case the attacker should be warned or penalized.

16. As a tactical theatrical move, some fighters turn away immediately in a mock display of dominance to demonstrate a scored point. They drop their guard and lapse awareness of the opponent. The purpose of the turn-away is to draw the Referee’s attention to their technique. This is a clear act of Mubobi. In order to score, Zanshin must be preserved. Should the offender sustain an injury and the fault is considered to be the recipient’s, the Referee may decline to give a penalty to the opponent.

17. An example of Mubobi is the instance in which the contestant launches a committed attack without regard for personal safety. Some contestants throw themselves into a long reverse-punch, and are unable to block a counter move. Such open attacks constitute an act of Mubobi and cannot score.

18. Any discourteous behavior from a member of an official delegation can earn the disqualification of a competitor, the entire team, or delegation from the competition.

19. The Coach will be assigned a specific place by the Referee Council in conjunction with the Tournament Organizing Officials. This area will be close to the competition area and the Coach allowed a free and uninterrupted access to contestants between bouts. To assist the contestants, a visible scoreboard must be employed which can be clearly viewed by Coaches and contestants.

 

ARTICLE 9 : PENALTIES

WARNING (CHUKOKU or ATENAI YONI) : May be imposed for attendant minor infractions, or the first instance of a minor infraction.

KEIKOKU : This is a penalty in which one Ippon (one point) is added to the opponent’s score. Keikoku is imposed for minor infractions for which a warning has previously been given in that bout, or for infractions not sufficiently serious to merit Hansoku-Chui.

HANSOKU-CHUI : This is a penalty in which Nihon (two points) is added to the opponent’s score. Hansoku-Chui is usually imposed for infractions for which a Keikoku has previously been given in that bout, although it may be imposed directly for serious infringements which do not merit Hansoku.

HANSOKU : This is imposed following a very serious infraction, or when Hansoku-Chui has already been given. It results in the disqualification of the contestant. ** In team matches the injured competitor will receive an additional eight points plus the opponent’s score, if that should be higher than their own.

SHIKKAKU: This is a disqualification from the actual tournament, competition, or match. In order to define the limit of Shikkaku, the Referee Council must be consulted. Shikkaku may be invoked when a contestant fails to obey the orders of the Referee, acts maliciously, commits an act which harms the prestige and honor of Karate-Do, or when other actions are considered to violate the rules and spirit of the tournament. ** In team matches, should a team member receive Shikkaku, the opponent will receive an additional eight points plus the opponent’s score, if that should be higher than their own.

EXPLANATION:
1. A penalty can be directly imposed for a rule infraction, but once given, repeats of that category of infraction must be accompanied by an increase in severity of penalty imposed. For example, it is not possible to give a Keikoku for excessive contact, then give a warning (Atenai Yoni or Chukoku) for a second instance of excessive contact.

2. Penalties do not cross-accumulate. This is to say that a warning for the first instance of Mubobi will not be followed by an automatic Keikoku for the first instance of Jogai. The general penalties imposed are those of Keikoku, Hansoku-Chui, Hansoku and Shikkaku. The infraction should be indicated by prefacing the Hansoku-Chui or Keikoku with an explanation such as "Jogai (or Mubobi) Keikoku/ Hansoku-Chui".

3. When through various infractions, the penalties incurred in any one bout equal 8 points (or, in WKF divisions, a lead of 8 points), then the offender will be declared the loser and the winner announced as "AKA/Shiro No Kachi".

4. Warnings (Atenai Yoni or Chukoku) are given where there has clearly been a minor infraction of the rules, but the contestant’s potential for winning is not diminished (in the opinion of the Referee Panel) by the opponent’s foul.

5. A Keikoku may be imposed directly, without first giving a warning. Keikoku is normally imposed where the contestant’s potential for winning is slightly diminished (in the opinion of the Referee Panel) by the opponent’s foul.

6. A Hansoku-Chui may be imposed directly, or following a warning, or following Keikoku and s used where the contestant’s potential for winning has been seriously reduced (in the opinion of the Referee Panel) by the opponent’s foul.

7. A Hansoku is imposed for cumulative penalties, but can also be imposed directly for serious rules infractions. It is used when the contestant’s potential for winning has been reduced virtually to zero (in the opinion of the Referee Panel) by the opponent’s foul.

8. Any competitor who receives Hansoku for causing injury, and who has in the opinion of the Referee Panel and Match Area Controller, acted recklessly or dangerously or who is considered not to have the requisite control skills necessary for that particular experience category (i.e. Intermediate or Advanced divisions), will be reported to the Referee Council. The Referee Council will decide if that competitor shall be suspended from the rest of that competition and/or subsequent competitions.

9. A Shikkaku can be directly imposed without warnings of any kind. The contestant need have done nothing to merit it - it is sufficient if the Coach or noncombatant members of the contestant’s delegation behave in such a way as to harm the prestige and honor of Karate-Do. If the Referee believes that a contestant has acted maliciously, regardless of whether or not actual physical injury has been caused, Shikkaku not Hansoku is the correct penalty.

10. A public announcement of Shikkaku must be made.

 

ARTICLE 10 : INJURIES AND ACCIDENTS IN COMPETITION

10.1 Kiken, or forfeiture is the decision given when a contestant or contestants fail to present themselves when called, are unable to continue, abandon the bout, or are withdrawn on the order of the Referee. The grounds for abandonment may include injury not ascribable to the opponent’s actions.

10.2 If two contestants injure each other, or are suffering from the effects of previously incurred injuries, and are declared by the tournament Doctor to be unable to continue, the bout is awarded to the contestant who has amassed the most points. If the points score is equal, then a vote (Hantei) will decide the outcome of the bout.

10.3 An injured contestant who has been declared unfit to fight by the tournament Doctor cannot fight again in that competition.

10.4 An injured contestant who wins a bout through disqualification due to injury is not allowed to fight again in the competition without permission from the Doctor. If he is injured, he may win a second bout by disqualification, but is immediately withdrawn from further Kumite competition in that tournament.

10.5 When a contestant is injured, the Referee shall immediately halt the bout and call the doctor. The doctor is authorized to diagnose and treat injury only.

10.6 A competitor who is injured during a bout in progress and requires medical treatment will be allowed three minutes in which to receive it. If treatment is not completed within the time allowed, the Referee will decide if the competitor shall be declared unfit to fight (Article 13, Paragraph 9d), or whether an extension of treatment time shall be given.

10.7 Any competitor who falls, is thrown or knocked down and does not fully regain his or her feet within ten seconds, is considered unfit to continue fighting and will be automatically withdrawn from all Kumite events in that tournament. In the event that a competitor falls, is thrown or knocked down and does not regain his or her feet immediately, the Referee will signal to the timekeeper to start the ten second countdown by a blast on his whistle, at the same time calling for the Doctor, if required. The timekeeper will stop the clock when the Referee raises his arm.

EXPLANATION:
1. When the Doctor declares the contestant unfit, the appropriate entry must be made on the contestant’s monitoring card. The extent of the unfitness must be made clear to other Refereeing Panels.

2. A contestant may win through disqualification of the opponent for accumulated minor Category 1 infractions. Perhaps the winner has sustained no significant injury. A second win on the same grounds must lead to withdrawal, even though the contestant may be physically able to continue.

3. Self inflicted injury and those injuries caused by the athlete are easy to deal with, but when assessing an injury caused by the opponent’s technique, the Panel must consider whether the technique was valid. Was it properly applied to the proper area at the correct time and with the correct degree of control? Consideration of this will assist the Referee Panel in deciding whether the injured contestant should be declared the loser by Kiken, or ether the opponent should be penalized for a foul.

4. The Referee should only call the Doctor when a contestant is injured and needs medical treatment.

5. The Doctor is obliged to make safety recommendations only as they relate to the proper medical management of that particular injured contestant.

6. When applying the "Ten Second Rule" the time will be kept by a timekeeper appointed for this specific purpose. A warning will be sounded at seven seconds followed by the final bell at ten seconds. The timekeeper will start the clock only on the Referee’s signal. The timekeeper will stop the clock when the competitor stands fully upright and the Referee raises his arm.

7. The Referee Panel will decide the winner on the basis of Hansoku, Kiken or Shikkaku as the case may be.

8. In team matches, should a team member receive Kiken, the opponent will receive an additional eight points plus the opponent’s score, if that should be higher than their own.

 

ARTICLE 11 : OFFICIAL PROTEST

11.1 No one may protest about a judgment to the members of the Refereeing Panel.

11.2 If a refereeing procedure appears to contravene the rules, the President of the Federation, or the Official Representative, is the only one allowed to make a protest.

11.3 The protest will take the form of a written report submitted immediately after the bout in which the protest was generated. (The sole exception is when the protest concerns an administrative malfunction. The Match Area Controller should be notified immediately when an administrative malfunction is detected).

11.4 The protest must be submitted to a representative of the Referee Council. In due course the Council will review the circumstances leading to the protested decision. Having considered all the facts available, they will produce a report, and shall be empowered to take action as may be called for.

11.5 Any protest concerning application of the rules must be made in accordance with the complaints procedure defined by the USA-NKF and submitted in writing on an approved form and signed by the official representative of the team or contestant(s).

11.6 The complainant must deposit a sum of money in an amount as shall be established by the USA-NKF, with the Treasurer and a duplicate receipt will be issued. The protest, plus a copy of the receipt, must be lodged with the Chairman of the Referee Council.

EXPLANATION:
1. The protest must give the names of the contestants, the Referee Panel officiating, and the precise details of what is being protested. No general claims about overall standards will be accepted as a legitimate protest. The burden of proving the validity of the protest lies with the complainant.

2. The protest will be reviewed by the Referee Council and as part of this review, the Council will study the evidence submitted in support of the protest. The Council will also study official videos and question Match Area Controllers in an effort to objectively examine the protest’s validity.

3. If the protest is held by the Referee Council to be valid, the appropriate action will be taken. In addition, all such measures will be taken to avoid a recurrence in future competitions. The deposit paid will be refunded by the Treasury.

4. If the protest is held by the Referee Council to be invalid, it will be rejected and the deposit forfeited to the USA-NKF.

5. Ensuing matches or bouts will not be delayed, even if an official protest is being prepared. It is the responsibility of the Arbitrator to ensure that the match as been conducted in accordance with the Rules of Competition.

6. In the case of an administrative malfunction during a match in progress, the Coach can notify the Match Area Controller directly. In turn, the Match Area Controller will notify the Referee.

 

ARTICLE 12 : POWERS AND DUTIES

REFEREE COUNCIL
The Referee Council’s powers and duties shall be as follows:

1. To ensure the correct preparation for each given tournament in consultation with the Organizing Committee, with regard to competition area arrangement, the provision and deployment of all equipment and necessary facilities, match operation and supervision, safety precautions, etc.

2. To appoint and deploy the Match Area Controllers (Chief Referees) to their respective areas and to act upon and take such action as may be required by the reports of Match Area Controllers.

3. To supervise and coordinate the overall performance of the refereeing officials.

4. To nominate substitute officials where such are required. The composition of a Panel of officials may not be changed at the sole discretion of the Arbitrator, Referee, or Judge.

5. To investigate and render judgment on matters of official protest.

6. To pass the final judgment on matters of a technical nature which may arise during a given match and for which there are no stipulations in the rules.

MATCH AREA CONTROLLERS
The Match Area Controllers powers and duties shall be as follows:

1. To delegate, appoint, and supervise the Referees and Judges, for all matches in areas under their control.

2. To oversee the performance of the Referees and Judges in their areas, and to ensure that the Officials appointed are capable of the tasks allotted them.

3. To order the Referee to halt the match when the arbitrator signals a contravention of the Rules of Competition.

4. To prepare a daily, written report on the performance of each official under their supervision, together with their recommendations, if any, to the Referee Council and the Examining Committee.

REFEREES
The Referee’s powers and duties shall be as follows:

1. The Referee (Shushin) shall have the power to conduct matches, including announcing the start, the suspension, and the end of the match.

2. To award points.

3. To explain to the Match Area Controller, or Referee Council if necessary, the basis for giving a judgment.

4. To impose penalties, and to issue warnings before, during, or after a bout.

5. To obtain and act upon the opinion(s) of the Judges (by flag gestures).

6. To announce extensions.

7. To conduct voting of the Referee Panel (Hantei), and announce the result.

8. To announce the winner of the bout.

9. The authority of the Referee is not confined solely to the competition area, but also to all of its immediate perimeter.

10. The Referee shall give all commands and make all announcements.

11. When the Judges signal, the referee must consider their opinions and render a judgment. The Referee however, will only stop the match if he agrees with the opinions tendered.

JUDGES
The Judges (Fukushin) powers and duties shall be as follows:

1. To assist the Referee by flag signals.

2. To exercise a right to vote on a decision to be taken.

3. The Judges shall carefully observe the actions of the contestants and signal to the Referee an opinion in the following cases:
a) When a score is observed;
b) When a contestant has committed a prohibited act and/or technique;
c) When an injury or illness of a contestant is noticed;
d) When both or either of the contestants have moved out of the competition area (Jogai);
e) In other cases when it is deemed necessary to call the attention of the Referee.

ARBITRATORS
The Arbitrator (Kansa) will assist the Match Area Controller by overseeing the match or bout in progress. Should decisions of the Referee and/or Judges, not be in accordance with the Rules of Competition, the Arbitrator will immediately raise the red flag or sign and sound the buzzer. The Match Area Controller will instruct the Referee to halt the match or bout, and correct the irregularity. Records kept of the match shall become official records subject to the approval of the Arbitrator.

SCORE SUPERVISORS
The Score Supervisor will keep a separate record of the scores awarded by the Referee and at the same time oversee the actions of the appointed timekeepers and scorekeepers.

EXPLANATION:
1. When three Judges give the same signal, or indicate a score for the same competitor, the Referee will stop the bout and render the majority decision. Should the Referee fail to stop the bout, the Arbitrator will raise the red flag or sign and sound the buzzer.

2. When two Judges give the same signal, or indicate a score for the same competitor, the Referee will consider their opinions, but may decline to stop the bout if he believes them to be mistaken. The Referee’s judgment in this instance is made "on the move". Before overruling the Judges signal, the Referee must consider whether the Judges were better sighted. Judges will signal only by flag gesture, they will not use whistles.

3. However, when the bout is halted, the majority decision will prevail. The Referee may ask the Judges to reconsider, but may not give a decision against two Judges, unless he has the positive support of the other Judge.

4. The Referee may ask the Judges to reconsider when he believes them mistaken, or when implementation would be a violation of the rules, such as when a technique has made excessive contact, when a score is signaled for a competitor who was outside of the match area (Jogai), or when the Referee considers the score signaled is too high or too low.

5. When three Judges each have different opinions, the Referee may give a decision which is supported by one of the Judges.

6. At Hantei the Referee and Judges each have one vote. In the event of a tied Encho-Sen, the Referee will have a casting vote.

7. The judges must only score what they actually see. If they are not sure that a technique actually reached a scoring area, they should signal that they did not see (Mienai) .

8. The role of the Arbitrator is to ensure that the match or bout is conducted in accordance with the Rules of Competition. He is not there as an additional Judge. He has no vote, not has he any authority in matters of judgment, such as whether a score was valid or if Jogai occurred. His sole responsibility is in matters of procedure.

9. In the event that the Referee does not hear the time-up bell, the Score Supervisor will blow his whistle.

10. The good Referee will not halt the smooth flow of the bout unless it is necessary to do so. All halts with no outcome, such as "Yame - Torimasen" must be avoided.

11. When explaining the basis for a judgment after the match, the Referee Panel may speak to the Match Area Controller or the Referee Council. They will explain to no one else.

 

ARTICLE 13 : STARTING, SUSPENDING AND ENDING OF MATCHES

13.1 The terms and gestures to be used by the Referee and Judges in the operation of a match shall be as specified in Appendices 1 and 2.

13.2 The Referee and Judges shall take up their prescribed positions and following an exchange of bows between the contestants, the Referee will announce "Shobu Hajime!" and the bout will commence.

13.3 The Referee will stop the bout by announcing "Yame!" . If necessary, the Referee will order the contestants to take up their original positions (Moto No Ichi) .

13.4 The Referee returns to his position and the Judges indicate their opinion by means of a signal. In the case of a score to be awarded the Referee identifies the contestant (Aka or Shiro) , the area attacked (Chudan or Jodan) , the scoring technique (Tsuki, Uchi or Keri) , and then awards the relevant score using the prescribed gesture. The Referee then restarts the bout by calling "Tsuzukete Hajime!" .

13.5 In adult Advanced (WKF) Kumite divisions, when a contestant has established a clear lead of eight points during a bout, the Referee shall call "Yame" and order the contestants back to their starting lines as he returns to his. The winner is then declared and indicated by the Referee raising a hand on the side of the winner and declaring "Shiro (Aka) No Kachi" . The bout is ended at this point. In all other Kumite divisions, the first contestant to accumulate eight points shall be declared the winner.

13.6 When time is up, the contestant who has the most points is declared the winner, indicated by the Referee raising a hand on the side of the winner, and declaring "Shiro (Aka) No Kachi" . The bout is ended at this point.

13.7 When time is up and the scores are equal, or no scores have been awarded, the Referee shall call "Yame" and return to his position. Moving to the match area perimeter, the Referee will call "Hantei" and give a two-tone blast on his whistle. The Referee and the Judges together will indicate their opinions, the Judges by raising their flags and the Referee by raising his arm. In the event of equal votes, the Referee will announce a tie (Hikiwake) , and the start of Encho-Sen where applicable by calling "Shobu Hajime" .

13.8 The Judges and Referee have one vote each at Hantei , except at the end of an inconclusive Encho-Sen , when the Referee may use a casting vote to break any further tie.

13.9 When faced with the following situations, the Referee will call out "Yame" and halt the bout temporarily.
a) When either or both contestants are out of the match area, or when a judge signals Jogai;
b) When either the Referee orders the contestant to adjust the Karate GI or protective equipment;
c) When a contestant has contravened the rules;
d) When the Referee considers that one or both of the contestants cannot continue with the bout owing to injuries, illness, or other causes. Heeding the tournament Doctor’s opinion, the Referee will decide whether the bout should be continued;e) When a contestant seizes the opponent and does not perform an immediate technique or throw within two to three seconds;
f) When one or both contestants fall or are thrown and no effective techniques are made within two to three seconds;
g) When both contestants are off their feet following a fall or attempted throw and begin to wrestle;
h) When three Judges give the same signal, or indicate a score for the same competitor.

EXPLANATION:
1. When beginning a bout, the Referee first calls the contestants to their starting lines. If a contestant enters the area prematurely, they must be motioned off. The contestants must bow properly to each other - a quick nod is both discourteous and insufficient. The Referee can call for a bow where none is volunteered by motioning as shown in Appendix 2 of the rules.

2. When restarting the bout, the Referee should check that both contestants are on their lines and properly composed. Contestants jumping up and down, or otherwise fidgeting must be stilled before combat can recommence. The Referee must restart the bout with the minimum of delay.

 

ARTICLE 14 : MODIFICATIONS

14.1 Only the USA-NKF Referee Council and Technical Committee with the approval of the Board of Directors can alter or modify these rules.

 

KATA RULES

The Kata Rules herein are required for the "WKF" or "Mandatory" Kata divisions. All other divisions, shall be conducted with a panel of 5 (five) Judges awarding numerical scores in the standard and accepted tournament procedures.

 

ARTICLE 1 : KATA COMPETITION AREA

1.1 The competition area must be flat and devoid of hazard.

1.2 The competition area must be of sufficient size to permit the uninterrupted performance of Kata.

EXPLANATION:
1. For the proper performance of Kata, a stable smooth surface is required. Usually the matted Kumite areas will be suitable.

 


ARTICLE 2 : OFFICIAL DRESS

2.1 Contestants and Judges must wear the official uniform as defined in Article 2 of the Kumite Rules.

2.2 Any person who does not comply with this regulation may be disbarred.


EXPLANATION:
1. The Karate GI jacket may not be removed during the performance of Kata.

2. Contestants who present themselves incorrectly dressed will be given one minute in which to remedy matters.

 

ARTICLE 3 : ORGANIZATION OF KATA COMPETITION


3.1 Kata competition takes the form of Team and Individual matches. Team matches consist of competition between three person teams. Each team is exclusively male, or exclusively female. The individual Kata match consists of individual performance in separate male and female divisions.

3.2 The elimination system with repechage will be applied.

3.3 The contestants will be expected to perform both compulsory (Shitei) and free selection (Tokui) Kata during the competition. Kata will be in accordance with the schools of Karate-Do recognized by the World Karate Federation (WKF), based on the Goju, Shito, Shoto, and Wado systems. In the first two rounds, no variations will be permitted. A schedule of the compulsory Kata