Karate Competition Rules

Kumite (sparring): Point-based. Clean techniques to the head, body, or legs score 1-3 points (ippon, waza-ari, yuko). First to 8 points or leading after 3 minutes wins. Excessive contact is penalized.

Kata (forms): Judged on technique, power, speed, rhythm, and balance. Competitors perform pre-set forms and are scored by a panel of judges.