World Karate Federation ( WKF ) Rules changes effective January 2009
Below is the published rule changes to the standard WKF Rules.
Only the significant changes are listed and all karateka should consult the full list of rules for accurate information.
The complete WKF rules can be found on the WKF Website.
Summary of Competition Rules Modifications for Implementation
January 2009
The following is intended as a guide to the main changes and should not be regarded as exhaustive or as a substitute for a thorough reading of the Rules.
Article 2.
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Referees must wear an acceptable colour of mid to light grey trousers.
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For competitor’s, hair, ribbons, beads and other decorations are prohibited. A discreet rubber band or pony tail retainer is permitted.
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Cadets will wear the new WKF Face Mask and body protector.
Article 5 Duration of Bout
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Duration of the Kumite bout is defined as three minutes for Senior Male Kumite (both teams and individuals) and four minutes in the individual bouts for medals.
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Senior Female bouts will be two minutes and three minutes in the individual bouts for medals.
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Cadet and Junior bouts will be two minutes.
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To assist the referee in regard to Category 2 offences the 30 second “Atoshibaraku” warning will be given at 10 seconds to go.
Article 6 Scoring
Scoring is considerably simplified as follows:-
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Sanbon is awarded for Jodan kicks and any scoring technique delivered on a thrown or fallen opponent.
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Nihon is awarded for Chudan kicks.
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Ippon is awarded for Chudan or Jodan Tsuki. Uchi.
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No Jodan contact with hand techniques (including the Face Mask) for Cadets and Juniors and only a light touch (skin touch) is allowed for Jodan kicking techniques.
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Scoring distance is increased up to 10cm from the face, head or neck. (Remains at 5cm for 18 years plus.)
Article 7. Criteria for Decision
Article 8 (andAppendix3). Prohibited Behaviour
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The first instance of exaggeration of injury will receive a Keikogu and Ippon to the opponent, more serious cases can receive Hansoku Chui or Hansoku direct. It is important to understand the difference between exaggerating the effect of an actual contact or injury and feigning a non-existent injury (which should be given Shikkaku).
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Dangerous Throws. It is specifically forbidden to grab the opponent below the waist or to pull the legs from under them.
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All throwing offences whether resulting in injury or not will be dealt with under Category 1.
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Avoiding combat refers to all situations where a contestant tries to allow the time to run out so that the opponent has no chance to even the score.
Article 10 Injuries and Accidents in Competition
Article 12 and Appendix 3
KATA
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