WUKF RULES

SUMMARY
Rules: Version 28, April 2024 (Released May 2024)
Slides dated: 05 May 2024
WUKF ATHLETES AND COACHES COMMISSION

Soren Helsted Jozsef Drosca Ian Cuthbert Mari du Preez

Chairperson & Ex COM Delegate Commission Member Commission Member Commission Member

Steve Robinson Dan Woods Omar Ocampo Matthias Boge

Ref COM Delegate Commission Member Commission Member Commission Member
WUKF ATHLETES AND COACHES COMMISSION
Coach education program outline and summary
for Coaches of the important articles in the WUKF
Competition Rules.
Excluded:
Rules for Kobudo, Inclusive Karate, Traditional Kata Rules & Karate Combat
WUKF VALUES

• We provide high Quality competition

• We are Together as One Team
• We work in the spirit of Friendship and
cooperation
• We believe in Respect and Fairness
• We are Democratic non-profit making
organisation
• We support the Confederation strategy
• We support Clean sport
Coaches Education
Program
Our World from outside in, as seen from the Coach’s perspective.
Why Coach education?

To be a coach at a World,
European and Continental
Championship level, we need to
make sure Coaches have a HIGH
level of competency and
professionality.

Coaches therefor need to take part

in the Coaches Education Program
and pass a test just like the
referees.
6
The Coaches Education Program

Item Coach Senior Coach Master Coach Elite Coach

EQF 5 EQF 6 EQF 7 EQF 8
(Advisory board) (Advisory board)
Rules Webinar/ seminar Webinar/ seminar pass Webinar/ seminar pass Webinar/ seminar pass
understanding pass with 80% with 90% with 95% with 100%
Dan 1st Dan (Shodan) 3rd Dan (Sandan) 4th Dan (Yondan) 5th Dan (Godan)+
Coach 2 years coach 4 Title tournaments 8 Title tournaments 12 Title tournaments
experience experience (Worlds, European or (Worlds, European or (Worlds, European or
Continental Tournament) Continental Tournament) Continental Tournament)

If you would like a

Once you have passed the Coach exam, you accreditation as a Coach will be updated on the UVENTEX system and Eur.E.TH.I.C.S
you will be able to register as a certified Coach for WUKF tournaments. Diploma and your
coach grade to be
Your coach license must be renewed every 2 years. registered as
official EQF Coach
level education,
WUKF Coaches Online Assessment on General Competition Rules: https://forms.gle/87UdxdFrtAh3eUdRA the fee will be €65.

7
RULES SUMMARY
WUKF VALUES

• We provide high quality competition

• We are together as one Team
• We work in the spirit of friendship and
cooperation
• We believe in respect and fairness
• We are democratic non-profit making
organisation
• We support the confederation strategy
• We support clean sport
ADMINISTRATIVE & OTHER RULES

MATCH AREA SIZES COMPETITORS

• Kumite: • Compete ONLY in their own categories of age, height, weight, belt, etc.,
8 x 8 meters (Ippon and Sanbon) with the exception of Kata Teams.
6 x 6 meters (Nihon) IE: A Junior can not compete in a Senior category
1 meter safety space around tatami.
• Kata: The size of the area shall be large Exception: Veterans can choose to compete in either the Senior or the
enough so that participants are able to Veteran age category, but not both and they are not allowed to mix
safely perform the Kata. individual or team age categories, (for example: do Veteran Individual
PS: No disqualification if a competitor Kumite and Senior Sanbon Team Kumite).
goes off the tatami during a kata
performance. • Veterans CAN compete in an individual Veteran Ippon event and in a
Veteran Sanbon team event
OTHER
• Veteran competitors CAN referee, AFTER their own “Veteran Competition”
• All Karate-ka, including competitors, Coaches, etc., must
has finished.
follow the Karate-Do ideals of good character, sincerity,
effort, etiquette and self-control.
• Coaches & competitors are not permitted to loiter around • Competitors can also enter an ‘Individual Open Category’ (Kumite and Kata)
the tatami area/ jury table area; speak to or distract or
interfere with the work of the Jury Table officials.
• Coaches not permitted to accompany a Kata Competitor • Compete in EITHER Ippon or Sanbon, not both.
onto the tatami.
Exception: Competitors with disabilities, as per the Inclusive Karate rules. • Compete in EITHER general or inclusive categories, not both.
Art 2, 6 & 9 of the WUKF Competition Rules 1
0
UNIFORMS: Competitor NEW RULE CHANGE

Clean, white Karate-Gi

(jacket and pants),with the
exception in Kobudo
categories.
Competition number CAN be
worn on the back of the Gi-
0123 jacket.
IT IS NOT COMPULSORY.
Won’t be disqualified if the
number falls.
If requested, the competitor
and/or coach must be able to
show it before the category or
pool starts.
Logos of other international sports Karate-Gi’s with stripes or embroidery on
organizations & blue equipment are shoulders are allowed.
NOT ALLOWED! (Art 4.14.2)
Art 4 of the WUKF Competition Rules 1
1
UNIFORMS: Competitor

Sleeves must reach halfway Muslim women may use a white

down the forearm and must Scarf or Chador.
not be longer then the bend
Female competitors can wear a
of the wrist.
plain white t-shirt under the
jacket.
Jacket must cover the hips,
but not reach the knees. Kata - wear a belt of their own
grade.
Belt must leave around When flags are used - wear a
15-30 cm of extra length, red/white belt.
but it must not reach the
The sleeves & trousers must NOT
knees. be rolled up.

Pants must cover two-thirds NO other international sports

of the shin and must not organizations logos or badges on
belt, pants, jacket or equipment.
reach the anklebone.
KATA KUMITE
Art 4 of the WUKF Competition Rules 1
2
UNIFORMS: Competitor

INAPPROPRIATELY DRESSED
KATA: If a Referee sees a competitor is inappropriately dressed, BEFORE THE COMPETITOR WALKS ON
TO THE FLOOR, he/she will allow the competitor 2 MINUTES to change his uniform to comply
with the WUKF rules.

If the Referee sees it when the competitor is already on the tatami, then it is too late to fix,
the competitor will then be disqualified.

KUMITE: If a Referee sees a competitor is inappropriately dressed, he/she will allow the
competitor 2 MINUTES to change his uniform to comply with the WUKF rules,
(even if already in tatami).

If after 2 MINUTES the competitor has not been able to change his uniform the decision of the Referee will be
KIKEN (renunciation/disqualification) for this competitor.

If the Referee sees something AFTER he/she has said Hajime, it the competitor will then be disqualified.

The competitor’s Coach is responsible for ensuring that the competitor is appropriately dressed for the competition.

NO disqualification for taking longer than 2 minutes when replacing or repairing damaged equipment/uniform.

Art 4 of the WUKF Competition Rules 1

3
UNIFORMS: Coaches NEW RULE CHANGE

Coaches must wear a national tracksuit (or trousers and national

polo/golf shirt).
FORBIDDEN FOR A COACH TO WEAR whilst Coaching:
- Karate Gi, even if they have a tracksuit jacket over it
- Tracksuit jacket around the hips
- Wear shorts
- Have backpacks, camera, other badges, phones, etc.

PS: You can keep your draw sheet/notepad and pen/pencil with you
while coaching.

Coaches are NOT ALLOWED TO ASSIST COMPETITORS to wear or

adjust their Karate-Gi or other clothes.
PS: If the referee gives permission, a Coach may assist children.
2 MINUTES to change if improperly dressed.
Coaches are allowed to have a bum bag /
If not able to change his/her uniform, the Referee moon bag / fanny pack around their
will invite him/her to leave the match area. waists when coaching.
(Art 4.15.2)
Art 4 of the WUKF Competition Rules 14
EQUIPMENT NEW RULE CHANGE

MITTS: BODY PROTECTOR:

White and/or red, corresponding to the Children Nihon Kumite. White or
colour of their kumite-belt for that round. double face red/white. It can be
PS: Traditional white material mitts can be worn OVER the Gi.
used for Ippon kumite.

HEAD GUARD:
GUM SHIELDS:
Children Nihon Kumite. White (or
Gum shields may be any colour or colourless
red to correspond to the colour of
(transparent), but NOT RED. (Art 5.2)
their kumite belt for that round).

GROIN PROTECTORS:
Worn under the Gi.

CHEST PROTECTORS:
Female Mini-Cadet, Cadet, Junior, Senior and
Veteran kumite. White in colour or colourless
(transparent) and worn UNDER the Gi.

Art 4.14.2 & 5 of the WUKF Competition Rules 15

EQUIPMENT: Compulsory & Allowed

COMPULSARY
- Mitts: Nihon, Sanbon & Ippon (special WUKF ippon mitts or similar models,
like traditional flat white material mitts)
- Gum shields: Sanbon & Ippon
- Groin protectors: Males Nihon, Sanbon & Ippon
- Chest protectors: Females Sanbon & Ippon
- Body protectors: Children Nihon
- Helmets/Head Guard: Children Nihon
- WHITE Instep protectors: Nihon & Sanbon (Red allowed for AKA competitor)

ALLOWED
- Sport glasses (approved by the doctor of the competition) or contact lenses
at their own risk during kata and kumite.
- Gum shields: Nihon
- Shin protectors: Nihon & Sanbon (white or red if AKA)
Art 5, 47.1 & 47.2 of the WUKF Competition Rules 16
EQUIPMENT NEW RULE CHANGE

EXAMPLES
Logos of other international sports organisations are
NOT ALLOWED on uniforms or equipment!

IT MUST BE REMOVED!
DON'T COVER IT WITH TAPE!
Cut the logo off or colour the logo with a permanent marker
on gloves, shin protectors, etc.

ONLY brand manufacturing labels are allowed.

Competitors cannot be disqualified if such logo/label is on their uniform/equipment, and they should be given the
opportunity to remove it.

REMOVAL PROCESS MUST START IMMEDIATELY, but if the competitor or coach REFUSES TO REMOVE the
label then a DISQUALIFICATION will be allowed!
(Art 4.14.2)
Art 4.14.2 of the WUKF Competition Rules 17
EQUIPMENT: Forbidden & Special

NO blue
FORBIDDEN equipment.
- Spectacles (glass or hard plastic) for kumite.
- Shin protectors and/or Instep shin protector for Ippon.

MEDICAL AND SPECIAL ITEMS NAILS, METALLIC OBJECTS, HAIR & BANDAGES
• It’s mandatory that the Coach informs the • Finger and toenails SHORT (PS: Nail polish is allowed on nails)
Competition Doctor about any item or medical • No METALLIC objects or false eyelashes
device (pacemaker, surveillance device, contact • Hair CLEAN AND CUT OR TIED UP (not obstruct their performance or
lenses, etc.) that a competitor wears. put them at risk)
• Can wear DISCREET HAIR CLIPS (not metallic) during a Kata.
• If the referee discovers an item that is
• No HACHIMAKI (Japanese headband), amulets or wristbands.
unauthorised by the WUKF Doctor the competitor
will be disqualified.
• Competition Doctor's MUST APPROVE the wearing of
BANDAGES or SUPPORTS.
• Competitors need the written approval of the
PS: The Doctor’s approval must be written on the
Competition Doctor to wear special glasses or any
competitor’s ID badge in order for referees to refer to it.
special item and devices (see 5.9.1).
PS: It must also be written on the competitor’s
ID badge
Art 5 of the WUKF Competition Rules 18
 KUMITE: General

SHOBU SANBON SHOBU NIHON SHOBU IPPON

- 13y and up - 12y and under - 13y and up
- Individual - Individual - Individual
- Team - Team Rotation - Team
- Team Rotation - Team Rotation

Competitors must choose Ippon or Kumite competitors must have their weight or height checked on the day of Registration.
Sanbon. Competitor’s ID Badge MUST be stamped as having their weight or height checked.
Veterans can choose to compete in
either the SENIOR or the VETERAN Coaches sit on the KUMITE TEAMS Competitors' and Coaches'
age categories! opposite can have 3 competitors badges must be given to the
Veterans can’t mix individual or side of the from the same age referees before a
team age categories round.
Tatami category OR can use
(IE: Veteran Individual and a Senior
Team event) facing the 1 or 2 competitors that
Jury table. is from the previous Remember to
Veterans CAN compete in an younger age category. collect it after
individual Veteran Ippon event and the round again!
in a Veteran Sanbon team event.

Art 1.5, 2.3, 2.4 & 24.1 of the WUKF Competition Rules 19
KUMITE: Scoring Areas & Techniques

NO POINT IF:
• An attack, even if effective,
delivered after the Time-up NOT the throat (front & side)
Head
bell signals NOT the shoulders
Neck
NOT the limbs (arms & legs)
• Techniques delivered Chest
outside the match area NOT the groin
Abdomen
NOT the joints (hip, knee, elbow)
• Scoring techniques of the Side & Back
same value simultaneously NOT the shins
delivered (Aiuchi). NOT the insteps (top of foot)

WILL COUNT IF:

• Effective technique delivered simultaneously as the Time-up bell.
However, if a competitor delivering a technique was within the boundary of the match area.
The point at which "Yame" is called is helpful in determining if Jogai has occurred.

Art 27 of the WUKF Competition Rules 20

KUMITE: Nihon Individual Categories

INDIVIDUAL Category Age Belt Height (M) Height (F) Notes

Children A 06-08y All Open Open 4 WAZA-ARI, 2 IPPON

Children B 09y Mirror system

Children C 10y All -1.45m -1.45m 1:30 min

Children D +1.45m +1.45m EFFECTIVE TIME

Children E 11y All -1.50m -1.50m TIE: HANTEI NO KACHI.

Children F +1.50m +1.50m NO HIKIWAKE.

Children G 12y All -1.55m -1.55m NO ENCHO-SEN.

WARNINGS (as per Art 28):

Children H +1.55m +1.55m
Atenai (3)
Kinshi (4)

Art 28 & 45 of the WUKF Competition Rules 21

KUMITE: Sanbon Individual Categories

INDIVIDUAL Category Age Belt Weight KG (M) Weight KG (F) Duration Notes
Mini-Cadets 13y All -45 -55 -50 -55 2 min 6 WAZA-ARI,
A-D -65 +65 -60 +60 3 IPPON

Cadets B 14-15y All -55 -65 -50 -55 2 min Mirror system
B1-B4 -75 +75 -60 +60
Cadets A 16-17y All -55 -65 -50 -55 2 min EFFECTIVE TIME
A1-A4 -75 +75 -60 +60
TIE: HANTEI NO KACHI.
Juniors 18-20y All -65 -75 -55 -60 3 min OR
A-D -85 +85 -65 +65 HAKIWAKE.
Read Art. 25-26
for info on Criteria Seniors 21-35y All -65 -75 -55 -60 3 min
For Deciding Ippon A-D -85 +85 -65 +65 ENCHO-SEN 1 min
And Waza-Ari. Veterans 36-40y All -75 +75 -60 +60 2 min
WARNINGS:
41-45y
Atenai (3)
46-50y Kinshi (4)
51-60y
In a TIE: Ippon should be considered
60y+
as criteria for deciding the winner.

Art 30-32 of the WUKF Competition Rules 22

KUMITE: Ippon Individual Categories

INDIVIDUAL Category Age Belt W/H (M) W/H (F) Notes

Mini-Cadets A 13y All -1.65m -1.55m 2 WAZA-ARI, 1 IPPON

Mini-Cadets B +1.65 +1.55m Flag system

Central Ref and 4 Corner Judges
Cadets B 14-15y All Open Open
2 Min
Cadets A 16-17y
RUNNING TIME
Juniors 18-20y The clock will stop only when the
Referee requests “Time”.
Seniors A 21-35y All -70 kg Open
SAI SHIAI MUST call HANTEI if there is
Seniors B +70 kg NO CLEAR WINNER with ippon or
Scores and 2 waza-ari before time is up!
warnings are not Veterans A 36-40y All Open Open
TIE: HANTEI NO KACHI.
carried into the Sai
Veterans B 41y+ OR
Shiai. SAI SHIAI (New match)

After the Sai Shiai, WARNINGS (Art. 55):

can’t draw. Atenai (3)
Jogai (3)
Mubobi (3)

Art 51-55 of the WUKF Competition Rules 23

KUMITE: Ippon & Waza-Ari: NIHON

INDIVIDUAL A POINT IS AWARDED WHEN AN EXACT, DECISIVE AND POWERFUL TECHNIQUE is delivered,
to scoring areas, with the following criteria:
• Good form (technique, synchronization, position and balance)
• Strong vigor (kime/ kiai)
• Good attitude
• Zanshin
• Proper timing
• Correct distancing

Some examples of effective techniques delivered under the following conditions shall be considered as an IPPON:
• When an attack is delivered with perfect timing and the opponent started to move towards the attacker.
• When an attack is delivered immediately as the opponent was unbalanced by the attacker.
• When a combination of successive and effective techniques is used.
• Combined techniques that would have merited a waza-ari will be elevated to an ippon.
• When the opponent has lost their fighting spirit and turned their back to the attacker and the attacker scores with a
valid technique.
• Effective attacks delivered on the undefended parts of the opponent.

A WAZA-ARI is awarded for a technique almost comparable to that needed to score Ippon.
The refereeing panel must look for Ippon in the first instance and only award a Waza-ari in the second instance.

For waza-ari and ippon, balance must be kept for an effective kick. NO points for kicking, while jumping on one leg.

Art 25.1-3, 25.6 & 48A of the WUKF Competition Rules 24

KUMITE: Ippon & Waza-Ari: SANBON

INDIVIDUAL A POINT IS AWARDED WHEN AN EXACT, DECISIVE AND POWERFUL

TECHNIQUE is delivered, to scoring areas, with the following criteria:
1. Good form (technique, synchronization, position and balance)
2. Strong vigor (kime/ kiai)
3. Good attitude
4. Zanshin
5. Proper timing
6. Correct distancing

In SHOBU SANBON a WAZA-ARI will be given for ALL techniques.

An IPPON can ONLY be given for:

• A controlled kick to the head (Jodan Geri) or
• A safe take down followed by scoring technique within 3 seconds while the competitor is on the floor or
• A break of balance immediately followed by a scoring technique.

The MAXIMUM point, for any punch and/or chudan kick, will be a WAZA-ARI!

For waza-ari and ippon, balance must be kept for an effective kick.

NO points for kicking, while jumping on one leg.

Art 25.1, 25.4-6 of the WUKF Competition Rules 25

KUMITE: Warnings & Penalties NEW RULE CHANGE

SANBON AND NIHON

- Excessive contact
- Prohibited scoring areas
(throat, shoulders, limbs, joints (hip,
knee, elbow), insteps, shins & groin)
- Open hand, knee/elbow, head-butts
- Jumping techniques
- Dangerous leg/foot sweeps & throws
MUST assist with the fall in throw/take down!
- Uncontrollable techniques (like heel kick)

Excessive Number of warnings :

contact a. First: Atenai Chui or Hansoku can be imposed directly, depending on the severity and if
b. Final: Atenai Chui the majority of the referee panel agrees and after consultation with the
c. Disqualification: Atenai Hansoku Doctor.

Art 28.1 of the WUKF Competition Rules 26

KUMITE: Warnings & Penalties

SANBON AND NIHON

- Time-wasting & constantly refusing to fight, running away, repeated interruption by clinching or
unnecessary bodily contact against the opponent.
- Exaggerated actions and reactions (unsporting behaviour like faking injury…)
- Behaviour that brings Karate into disrepute (by Competitor, Coach, Managers, parents, etc)
- Disrespectful and unnecessary actions (like throwing their gloves, refusing to participate to bow,
disagreeing with a ref, etc)
- Show lack of regard for own safety by having their back turned to opponent.
- Touch the floor outside the match area (unless pushed)
- Grabbing (unless immediately followed up by a technique)
- Uncontrolled and dangerous attacks (such as hook punches and/or kicking through the opponent)

Prohibited - NO KINSHI if a controlled technique misses the head or for avoiding the attack!
behaviour and
actions Number of warnings:
1. Kinshi 2. Kinshi 3. Kinshi Chui 4. Kinshi Hansoku

Art 28.2 of the WUKF Competition Rules 27

KUMITE: Warnings & Penalties

INDIVIDUAL
FORBIDDEN CONTACT AND TECHNIQUES

Excessive contact to face, helmet or chest. “LIGHT” touches to

If there is a body contact and then an
helmet allowed.
obvious marking, the referee must
immediately punish the offender with a
warning or penalty.

Children can do safe

Technique can’t push or move back the takedowns, followed by
head of the opponent. scoring technique, within
3 seconds, while the
competitor is on the floor,
Grabbing, grappling or dangerous throws as per Art 25.3.

Art 47-48 of the WUKF Competition Rules 28

KUMITE: Warnings & Penalties
IPPON
- Excessive contact
- Prohibited scoring
- Open hand, knee, elbow techniques or
head-butt
- Jumping techniques
- Dangerous leg/foot sweeps & throws
MUST assist with the fall in throw/take down!
- Uncontrollable techniques (like a heel kick)

Number of warnings :
a. Atenai
Excessive b. Atenai Chui
contact c. Atenai Hansoku

* Hansoku can be imposed directly.

Art 55 of the WUKF Competition Rules 29

 KUMITE: Ippon Individual
IPPON
- Time-wasting, refusing to fight, running away
- Repeated grabbing/holding, etc
- Exaggerated actions and reactions, etc
- Behaviour that brings Karate into disrepute
For Competitor, Coach, Managers and anybody connected
with the competitor.
- Disrespectful and unnecessary actions during the match, etc.
- Show lack of regard for own safety when their back is turned.
- Grabbing (unless followed up by a technique)
- Uncontrolled attacks (which exceed past or over target).
“Lack of regard
for safety or Number of warnings :
integrity” 1. Mubobi
2. Mubobi Chui
3. Mubobi Hansoku
Art 55 of the WUKF Competition Rules 30
KUMITE: Ippon Individual
IPPON

- Touching the floor, outside the match area, with any part of the competitor's body)
- Go out deliberately or to avoid a technique
- Delivers an unsuccessful technique and then exits immediately afterwards
- Art 55.3 c-f: See examples of Jogai scenarios.

- No warning/penalty if a competitor is PUSHED outside the match area by the opponent.

Number of warnings :
a. First warning: Jogai
b. Final warning: Jogai Chui
c. Disqualification: Jogai Hansoku
Touching the floor,
outside the match
area

Art 55 of the WUKF Competition Rules 31

KUMITE: Warnings & Penalties

SANBON , NIHON AND IPPON

- Do not obey the orders of the Referee
- Competitor becomes aggressive
- Commits an act which harms the prestige and honour or violate the rules and spirit
of Karate-Do
- Competitors (or Coach, Managers, parents, etc) make obscene or
offensive gestures, make threats, or give verbal abuse to the officials or
other competitors
- Referee believes that a competitor has acted maliciously
BEFORE SHIKKAKU can be imposed, the Referee Tatami Manager WUKF-Ref Comm.

The competitor (or team) who receives Shikkaku in the semi-final or finals, WILL NOT RECEIVE A
MEDAL.
Disbarment from
the entire
SHIKAKKU is DIFFERENT from HANSOKU (Disqualification).
competition
Shikakku = Leave the competition and some additional penalties may be imposed.
Hansoku = Disqualified from the round.
Art 28.3 of the WUKF Competition Rules 32
KUMITE: Team Catergories

Categories Age Belt Weight Duration NOTES

Cadets B 14-15y ALL OPEN 2 min SANBON:
for Male & EFFECTIVE time
Female
Cadets A 16-17y 2min TIE: HAKIWAKE. EXTRA MATCH.

still TIE ENCHO-SEN 1 min.

Juniors 18-20y 3 min
Warnings:
- Atenai (3) - Kinshi (4)
IPPON:

3 min EFFECTIVE time

Seniors 21-35y
TIE: HANTEI NO KACHI.
OR
SAI SHIAI (New match)

Warnings:
- Atenai (3) - Jogai (3) - Mubobi (3)

3 individual matches, they are decided according to the SANBON OR IPPON kumite rules for individual kumite matches.
Art 33 & 56 of the WUKF Competition Rules 33
KUMITE: Team Rules

Before a match, a team representative (coach/captain) must hand the official FIGHTING ORDER
LIST to the Jury Table/Entrance officials.
ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3

FIGHTING ORDER TEAM MEMBERS

• Order can be changed for each round • Must be 3 competitors
• If there are NOT 3 competitors at the start
• Once notified, NO amendment
of the first round → KIKEN
• Use of a reserve is a change in fighting order. • Can have 1 reserve, who may be
• If order is changed, without notifying the substituted for an injured competitor or if
Jury Table before the start of match, the the Coach requires, in the NEXT ROUND.
How points are rewarded in
Team Sanbon (Art 36) and team will be disqualified. • Team CAN continue to fight if 2 team
Team Ippon (Art 59). members are injured.
Art 33, 34, 35, 56 ,57 & 58 of the WUKF Competition Rules 34
KUMITE: Rotational Team Categories

Categories Age Belt Weight Duration Notes

Mini-Cadets 13y ALL OPEN 6 min Mirror system
Male & Female
Cadets B 14-15y No limit to points.

RUNNING TIME
Cadets A 16-17y
TIE: Nr of Ippon
Juniors 18-20y
STILL a TIE HANTEI NO KACHI.
Seniors 21-35y or
HAKIWAKE.
Rules are similar to Veterans 36y +
SHOBU SANBON ENCHO-SEN 2 min.
INDIVIDUAL,
but with some The clock will stop ONLY when the
differences. Referee requests “Time”.

Warnings:
- Atenai (3) - Kinshi (4)

Art 38-44 of the WUKF Competition Rules 35

KUMITE: Rotational Team Rules

TEAM MEMBERS
• Team = 3 competitors & 1 reserve
• Reserve may be substituted for an injured competitor or if the Coach requires it,
during the next round.
• Each member must fight at least once, for at least 15 sec.
• May make as many substitutions between the 3 team members as you like.
• In the last fight, a competitor can fight for less than 15 sec.
• NO CHANGES after Atoshi Baraku (last 15 sec of the match).

WINNER: Team who scored MOST POINTS during 6 min OR

Team with ADVANTAGE OF “6 POINTS” within 6 min – even if not all fought.

DISQUALIFICATION
• If there are NOT 3 competitors at the start of each round.
• If someone has NOT fought at the end of match.

TIE AND ENCHO-SEN

• Team who has the MOST IPPON will win … OTHERWISE go to ENCHO-SEN (2min).
• Each Coach will choose 1 competitor from their team to fight in the extension.
• Competitor may be changed after the extension has begun.
Art 38-44 of the WUKF Competition Rules 36
KUMITE: Rotational Team Substitutions

Coaches must sit down next to Change

Judge.

Team members starts next to Coach.

Waiting team members MUST be ready.

Substitute within 3 sec!

In exceptional circumstances and with

WUKF Ref Com permission, the team
captain, may make substitutions,
if there is NO COACH.

Art 43 of the WUKF Competition Rules 37

KUMITE: Rotational Team “CHANGE”

Referee calls
“YAME”

1st Fighter 1st Coach to shout “CHANGE”

will be validated by Change
Judge
Next Fighter
Start of match goes on ONLY when
OR after last REF says “CHANGE”!
change

PENALTIES:
- Don’t change within 3 sec = KINSHI
- Substitute without Ref command = KINSHI
- Warning/penalties = WHOLE TEAM

Art 43 of the WUKF Competition Rules 38

KUMITE: Rotational Team

Category Age Belt Weight (M) Weight (F) Duration Notes

Children A 10y & All Open Open 4 min Mirror system

under
RUNNING TIME

Children B 11-12y TIE: HANTEI NO KACHI.

NO HIKIWAKE.
NO ENCHO-SEN.

Warnings (as per Art 28):

- Atenai (3) - Kinshi (4)

Articles 40, 43 and 44 for rotation team SANBON kumite (team members, substitution and penalties), remain valid for ROTATION
TEAM NIHON KUMITE.
WINNER: Team who scored MOST POINTS during 4 min
OR
Team with advantage of “4 points” within 4 min – even if not all members fought.

Rules regarding forbidden contact and techniques (Art 48) of Individual Nihon Kumite apply.
Criteria for scoring is listed in Art 25.
Art 39-44, 48, 50 of the WUKF Competition Rules 39
KUMITE: Rotational Team

Category Age Belt Weight (M/F) Duration Notes

Mini-Cadets 13y All Open 4 min Flag system
RUNNING TIME
Cadets B 14-15y
The clock will stop only when the Referee
requests “Time” (Art. 61.1)
Cadets A 16-17y
TIE: Nr of IPPON.
Juniors 18-20y STILL a TIE: HANTEI NO KACHI.
OR
Seniors 21-35y SAI SHIAI (New match)

Veterans 36y + Warnings:

- Atenai (3) - Jogai (3) - Mubobi (3)

Rules for rotation team SANBON kumite” (team members, substitution, deciding the winning team and penalties),
remain valid for ROTATION TEAM IPPON KUMITE, with exception to the following:

If 1 (or 2) competitor(s) is/are SCORED BY IPPON, (s)he/they WILL BE

ELIMINATED FOR REMAINDER of the match.
The competitor(s) will sit down close to the tatami.
However, (s)he/they MAY COMPETE IN A SAI SHIAI MATCH.
PENALTIES EXCEPTION: KINSHI penalty is replaced with a MUBOBI penalty.
Art 60-64 of the WUKF Competition Rules 40
KATA
GENERAL:
• Veterans can compete only in 1 Veteran kata category.
Main styles (separated): Shotokan, Wadoryu,
• Competitors must choose to compete in either general or inclusive Goju-Ryu, Shito-Ryu and Shorin Ryu
categories.
• Juniors can’t compete in senior categories. Other styles (all together): Uechi Ryu,
• Veterans can choose to compete in either the Senior or the Veteran Kyokushinkai, Shukokai, Sankukai, Gosoku Ryu,
age category, not both. Budokan
• Compete in 1 Kata Style ONLY and perform kata only from a style
Main styles categories that do not have 3
that has a kata list.
competitors will be included in “Other styles”
• Competitors MUST perform a kata from his/her style that they were category.
registered in; and the style must be written on their ID badge.

PROCEDURE FOR KATA

• MUST BOW to the Central Referee and the competitor must CLEARLY announce the name of
the Kata.
• Central Referee will clearly repeat the name of the Kata to the athlete and Jury Table.
PS: Your competitor must LISTEN be sure the Referee repeats the correct name.
• Jury Table must check if it is the correct kata BEFORE the kata is started.
• If the kata is NOT allowed, the Central Referee will tell the athlete it is not allowed and they The competitor
can announce a new kata, to avoid disqualification. bows 4 times.
THIS CAN HAPPEN ONLY ONCE!
Art 1.4, 1.4.3, 2.3.1.1 & 66 of the WUKF Competition Rules 41
KATA: Individual Categories

Individual kata round summary (Male & Female)

CATEGORY AGE STYLE BELT ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 REPEAT

Children A 06-08 y ALL Kyu 9-7 kyu (White-Orange) Shitei Shitei Shitei Yes
Children B 09 y
Children C 10 y
Children D 11 y
Children E 12 y
TOKUI KATA = Children A 06-08 y ALL Kyu 6-4 kyu (Green-Blue/Purple) Shitei Shitei Sentei NO*
ANY KATA Children B 09 y
from the Shitei Children C 10 y
or Sentei or Children D 11 y
Tokui lists, not Children E 12 y
yet performed.
Children A 06-08 y ALL Kyu 3 – Dan (Brown-Black) Shitei Sentei Sentei NO*
Children B 09 y
Children C 10 y
Children D 11 y
Children E 12y ALL Kyu 3 – Dan (Brown-Black) Shitei Sentei Tokui NO*

* NO = Can’t repeat a kata once it has been performed. Not even in a tie situation.
Art 71.1 of the WUKF Competition Rules 42
KATA: Individual Categories

Individual kata round summary (Male & Female)

CATEGORY AGE STYLE BELT ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 REPEAT
Mini-Cadets 13y STYLE BLOCKS ALL Shitei or Shitei or Shitei or NO*
- Shotokan - Goju Ryu White-Black
- Shito Ryo - Wado Ryu Sentei Sentei or Sentei or
- Shorin Ryu - Other Styles
Tokui Tokui

Cadets B 14-15y STYLE BLOCKS ALL Shitei or Shitei or Shitei or NO*

- Shotokan - Goju Ryu White-Black
- Shito Ryo - Wado Ryu Sentei Sentei or Sentei or
- Shorin Ryu - Other Styles
Tokui Tokui
Cadets A 16-17y STYLE BLOCKS ALL Shitei or Shitei or Shitei or NO*
- Shotokan - Goju Ryu White-Black
- Shito Ryo - Wado Ryu Sentei Sentei or Sentei or
- Shorin Ryu - Other Styles
Tokui Tokui

* NO = Can’t repeat a kata once it has been performed. Not even in a tie situation.
Art 72 of the WUKF Competition Rules 43
KATA: Individual Categories

Individual kata round summary (Male & Female)

CATEGORY AGE STYLE BELT ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 REPEAT
Juniors 18-20y STYLE BLOCKS ALL Shitei or Shitei or Shitei or NO*
- Shotokan - Goju Ryu White-Black
- Shito Ryo - Wado Ryu Sentei Sentei or Sentei or
- Shorin Ryu - Other Styles
Tokui Tokui
Seniors 21-35y STYLE BLOCKS ALL Shitei or Shitei or Shitei or NO*
- Shotokan - Goju Ryu White-Black
- Shito Ryo - Wado Ryu Sentei Sentei or Sentei or
- Shorin Ryu - Other Styles
Tokui Tokui
Veterans A 36-40y ALL ALL Shitei or Shitei or Shitei or NO*
Veterans B 41-45y White-Black
Veterans C 46-50y Sentei Sentei or Sentei or
Veterans D 51-60y
Tokui Tokui
Veterans E 61y +

* NO = Can’t repeat a kata once it has been performed. Not even in a tie situation.
Veterans can choose to compete in either the Senior or the Veteran age category, not both.
Art 2.4 b, 72 & 73 of the WUKF Competition Rules 44
KATA: Team Categories NEW RULE CHANGE

Team (Unison) Kata round summary (Male &

Female)
CATEGORY AGE STYLE BELT ROUND 1 ROUND 2 ROUND 3 REPEAT
Children A 10y & under ALL All belts Shitei Shitei Sentei NO*

Children B 11-12y ALL All belts Shitei Shitei Sentei NO*

Mini-Cadets 13y ALL All belts Shitei or Shitei or Shitei or NO*

Cadets B 14-15y Sentei Sentei or Sentei or

Team members can be Cadets A 16-17y Tokui Tokui
from different
individual styles, but Juniors 18-20y
the team must compete Seniors 21-35y
in One Kata Style ONLY
and perform katas from Veterans 36 up
a style that is in the
KATA TEAMS must have 3 competitors from the same age category OR can use 1 or 2 competitors from NO* = Can’t repeat
official WUKF Kata List. a kata once it has
the previous younger age category.
(Art 1.4.5.1) been performed.
Not even in a tie
MUST COMPETE in the OLDEST COMPETITORS’ AGE GROUP! situation.

Art 1.4.5.1, 2.4 , 71.2 & 74 of the WUKF Competition Rules 45

KATA: Rounds

Referee to inform the

Competitors and Coaches how
? 1 = 1
many KATA rounds there will be
in the category. If only 1 competitor then 1 round kata.

Round NR of Competitors Nr of Rounds

Round 1: TOP 18 through

R1 = 30 = 3 rounds Round 2: TOP 06 through

Round 3: TOP 03 receive medals

Round 1: TOP 12 through

R1 = 30 = 3 rounds Round 2: TOP 06 through

Round 3: TOP 03 receive medals

Round 1: FALLS AWAY

R1 = 12 = 2 rounds Round 2: TOP 06 through

Round 3: TOP 03 receive medals

Art 1.4.8, 2.1 of the WUKF Competition Rules 46
KATA: Scores & Criteria

SCORING RANGE MAIN CRITERIA FOR DECISION: BASIC PERFORMANCE

1. Create Structure (Technique) 3. Kime (Transfer of power)
• Correct body geometry; • Synchronization;
• Correct body posture; • Timing;
• Proper Stance structure; • Proper interval;
• Proper connection between Stance
and Posture; 4. Other elements
• Proper Balance and stability • Rhythm;
in structure; • Understanding the feature of
Scoring is based on 20-point scale in the above ranges. • Proper Embusen; kata (specific to the
Each of the 4 main criteria will receive a numerical • Proper Eye vector. performed kata);
Disqualification
grade (1-5) and added to the base for the final score. • Proper attitude, spirit;
2. Create power • Concentration.
Judges are to award points only based on judging • Expansion and contraction of body; • The degree of difficulty,
criteria • Control of Tension and rhythm, and risk in the
Contraction; performance of the Kata.
1 2 3 4 5 • Proper execution and utilization of • The Budo and fighting spirit
Unsatisfactory Satisfactory Good Very Good Excellent Kiai; attitude of the competitor.
• Proper Breathing;
• Methods of creating power:
When DISQUALIFIED the score, for all Body shift, Body rotation,
competitors, will be the LOWEST SCORE Lifting body, Dropping body &
(5.0/6.0/7.0) according to the round. Body vibration
Art 69-70, 75 & 77 of the WUKF Competition Rules 47
KATA: Sample Score, Range 6.0-8.0

1 2 3 4 5
6.0 Unsatisfactory Satisfactory Good Very Good Excellent

Structure
.1 .1 .1
(Technique)

Create power .1 .1 .1 Scoring is based on 20-point scale in

the range or 5.0-7.0 / 6.0-8.0 / 7.0-9.0.
Kime .1 .1 .1 Each of the 4 main criteria will receive
(Transfer of power) a numerical grade (1-5) and added to
Other the base for the final score.
.1 .1 .1
Elements

8.0

6.0 8.0
Adding the points awarded OR + 1.2 - 0.8
subtracting points NOT awarded arrives at 7.2 7.2 7.2

Art 75 of the WUKF Competition Rules 48

KATA: Scores & Ties

SCORING TIE SITUATION (All rounds)

Of the original 5 SCORES the HIGHEST and LOWEST IF THERE IS A TIE IN ROUND 1 OR 2:
score is deleted/cancelled and NOT USED AGAIN .
- ADD the MINIMUM / LOWEST of the 3 remaining scores.
The TOTAL of the REMAINING 3 SCORES ARE
- ADD the MAXIMUM / HIGHEST of the 3 remaining scores.
CALCULATED for the round result.
IF THERE IS A TIE IN ROUND 3:
Competitor A
- Perform a TIE Kata not yet performed (a new kata).
Round 1 Kata - ADD the MINIMUM / LOWEST of the 3 remaining scores.
6.8 6.9 7.0 Disqualification
7.1 7.1 = 21 - ADD the MAXIMUM / HIGHEST of the 3 remaining scores.
- IF THERE IS STILL A TIE ...
Round 2 Kata - Competitors are identified with a red / white belt
7.7 7.8 8.1 8.2 8.0 = 23.9 - Central Ref calls HANTEI by with the use flags.
- Each judge must decide Aka or Shiro based on the last kata
Round 3 Kata performed.
7.9 7.6 8.2 8.0 8.1 = 24
If all competitors who competed in tie round are disqualified,
Final Score (R2 + R3) = 23.9 + 24 each competitor must perform an imposed SHITEI kata from
= 47.9 their Kata style.
Art 69-70, 75 & 77 of the WUKF Competition Rules 49
KATA

GUIDELINE ON HOW KATA CAN BE JUDGED

EXAMPLE: SCORE RANGE KATA GUIDELINE

Round 2
Scoring 6.0 – 8.0 <6.7 Unsatisfactory

6.8 Satisfactory

7.2 Good

7.6 Very Good

7.7> Excellent

Art 75 of the WUKF Competition Rules 50

KATA: Deductions & Disqualification NEW RULE CHANGE

MINUS POINTS DISQUALIFICATION

Points (0.1) will be For disqualification, the score will be 5.0/6.0/7.0 (according to the round)
deducted for the in all age categories.
following: A competitor can be disqualified for the following:
• If competitor stop for more than 5 sec
• A discernible pause or a • If competitor forgets or add a technique
slight imbalance • Loose balance completely and falls
• The absence of all kiai (no kiai at all)
• If belt, trouser, a device, etc. (but not the number), falls during the kata performance.
• The absence of EACH
• If competitor announces a kata which is NOT ALLOWED twice (Art 66.4).
kiai
Can’t be disqualified if a competitor performs a nominated kata, allowed in that round, but
• For excessive breathing the table records the wrong kata.
or slapping the body as For example, in a Sentei kata round, if the competitor announces Jion, but the table official
a synchronization tool, records Bassai Dai, the performed kata must be scored and there will be no disqualification.
during the performance
of the team kata. A competitor cannot be disqualified for variations of a technique or stance in a kata.
The Tatami Chief or Central Referee can call for Shugo to disqualify or to discuss an issue.
Art 66.4, 67.5, 76 & 77 of the WUKF Competition Rules 51
OFFICIAL PROTEST

PROTEST PROCEDURE
the Directly after the
Coach will to the
intention match is finished,
announce Tatami
to protest BEFORE the next
Manager
match
The Tatami Manager will stop the whole round and will inform the WUKF-Referee Commission about it.

BEFORE PAY PROTEST FEE OF (The fee will be returned if the protest is upheld.)

PROTEST in writing Hand it to Who will hand it to the

by completing the the Tatami WUKF Referee
Protest sheet Manager Commission

Feedback on the outcome will be given from the Ref Comm to the Tatami Manager to the Coach.

• Only the Coach of the team involved may protest to the Tatami Manager against a decision.
• Competitors can’t protest against a decision.
• WHEN the category is finished, and the medalists are notified NO ONE CAN APPEAL THE DECISION.
Art 8 of the WUKF Competition Rules 52
OFFICIAL PROTEST
CAN PROTEST A DECISION: COACH MUST PROVIDE EVIDENCE FOR THE PROTEST, BUT
• that might have VIOLATED THE RULES OF
• Video proof, regarding an assumptive technical
THE MATCH OR OF JUDGING.
evaluation error, IS NOT ACCEPTED as evidence for the protest.
• if there is an ADMINISTRATIVE ERROR
during the match.
• Video proof is accepted, as evidence, only for
• not a technical decision or point call
administrative errors and only if the incident is clearly visible.
(even if you have video evidence).

Notify the Tatami Manager of ANY ADMINISTRATIVE ERROR

as soon as it is detected!
For example:
- Wrong competitor called or put through to round
- Points given not being shown on scoreboard
- Wrong points shown on scoreboard
- Wrong calculation of points in kata
- Wrong kumite format for age group
- Wrong kata done for round, but allowed
- Forget to stop time
Administrative errors can be solved - Wrong number of penalties given are shown
quickly, on the floor, with out official - If a kata judge gives, for example, 7.5 in the 6.0 round
protest.
Art 8.2 & 8.14 of the WUKF Competition Rules 53
WARNINGS & PENALTIES: Coaches

Coaches can be penalized for bad behaviour (verbal abuse, The penalty scale for Coaches will have 3 steps:
physical aggressiveness) against officials or against their own
students.

The decision to warn or penalize a Coach will be taken by

the Referee panel and the Tatami Manager.

To warn a Coach, the Tatami Manager will mark an X on the

back of Coach's badge and certify this with his signature.

• After the 3rd mark, you will not be allowed to act as a Coach
during the remainder of the competition.

• WUKF Referee Commission can also impose a suspension for

a period of time, from all competitions under the WUKF
umbrella.
In special situations KINSHI HANSOKU
can be imposed directly.
Art 28.4 of the WUKF Competition Rules 54
INJURIES & ACCIDENTS

EXCESSIVE INJURY

If competitor causes an excessive injury

to another competitor, based on the
Depending on the Competition Doctor’s decision the competitor will or will not be doctor and referees report and the
allowed to continue the round. He/she will record a competitor’s injury on an medical documents, the WUKF-
RefComm may impose additional
“INJURY Form/Sheet” and indicate if the competitor can continue to compete.
penalties, such as:
Coaches and parents DO NOT go on the floor and assist with an injury!
1. A written warning.
2. A suspension of between 1 – 2
ONLY the Doctor/Paramedic can decide to continue, NOT the competitor, coach or
years from all WUKF international
parent.
competition events.
3. Competitor can be banned from all
PS: Remember to ask/check if the injury form sheet has been submitted, if your Kumite Competitions in WUKF
competitor can continue! events.
NO POINT shall be awarded if the competitor injures the opponent even
if the injury is only very minor.
Art 3.2, 29 & 78 of the WUKF Competition Rules 55
 THANK YOU!
Questions can be sent to
[email protected]
for attention: Mr Søren Helsted

WUKF COMPETITION RULES: SUMMARY NOTES FOR COACHES 56