2014 GKR Australian Titles: Understanding Kumite Scoring pt 1

This video features highlights of the Jnr and Snr Open Kumite events. It has been put together to help students gain insight to what Referees are looking for.
The higher the grade division, the more the Referees are critical of the Scoring Criteria.

Essentially Referee's award those techniques that demonstrate they would be effective in real combat had the technique not been controlled (pulled back) by the competitor.

The Scoring Criteria encompasses:

Good Form. When form is lacking, power is diminished - making it less effective.

Correct Distance. A competitor must show their technique has the ability to penetrate through the target area (making it more effective). Therefore striking at full arms/legs reach will not be scored.

Stance. Striking in stance adds power, reach and stability. Therefore striking out of stance is less effective and will not be scored.

Zanshin. This is a constant state of awareness. After a technique lands, before the Referee can score it the competitor must show they are still aware of the potential dangers. This means maintaining eye contact with their opponent, finishing in stance (to prevent being taken to ground) and keeping a guard up.

Vigorous application. For a technique to score, the competitor must show they are putting full effort into it. Putting in less than full effort will reduce a technique's effectiveness (meaning it will not score).