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Many students enjoy the challenge of competition. Tournament karate is a game of reflexes which demand superb timing, speed, technique, strategy, sportsmanship and control. In karate you can participate in both Kumite (fighting) and Kata (form).
The Kumite is fast paced not only for the spectator, but requires precision skill and control by the competitor. In karate you pull your technique (all blows, although focused strongly, should be halted just short of contact), scoring points by showing the judges what you could do in a self defence situation. While very exciting to watch, tournament karate is considered by most of the masters as a stepping stone and not an ultimate goal in the development of the karate-ka.
The Kata competition shows a combination of grace and power in technique through a series of choreographed movements that represent the competitor defending themselves in a multi attack environment. Both provide a sense of self accomplishment and build confidence by performing in front of their peers and an audience.
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In the following sections you will find extracts from the World Karate
Federation (WKF) rules for KUMITE and KATA pertaining to the Referee's
basic terminology and gestures and Judges flags. |
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