Karate as a Sport

As the evolution of karate continued, the introduction of karate as a sport began to emerge. Though it has yet to get the nod to become an Olympic Sport, the World Karate Foundation has already established rules that govern a karate competition.

There are three disciplines from which competitors of karate may choose from: the kumite, the kata and the kobudo. In each of these disciplines, competitors may enter as individuals or as teams.

In Kata, two contestants comprise each bout and a panel of judges will evaluate to decide who among the two competitors performed best. Among the criteria considered for judging include: good timing, rhythm, speed, balance and focus of power, correct stances, correct form of the style being demonstrated and the difficulty level of the kata presented. In team Kata, synchronization of movements is also a key criterion.

In Kobudo, contestants demonstrate in front of a panel of judges, but unlike kata, Kobudo competitions allow competitors to use traditional karate weapons. During the demonstration, contestants must display good control of the weapon used. Dropping the weapon in the middle of the demonstration will result to major point deductions and at times even disqualification.

In Kumite, two competitors engage themselves in a timed fight where each fighter will battle to score as many points as they can within the time limit. Scores are awarded depending on the location of the punch or kick. A refereeing panel that consists of one referee and three or five judges will score the match. A punch or kick can score 1, 2 or 3 points depending on the tactical situation during which the attack was made.