Competitions |
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Most people who join are encouraged to take part in the various competitions at both club, regional and nations levels with students regularly taking part in the events.
While competition is seen as the more exciting aspect of karate, it is by no means the main emphasis of karate. It is important to note that only a small proportion of techniques are permitted and there are different levels of category according to belt, age and weight. Broadly speaking the there are two types of event to compete within:
Competition requires a great deal of control and is not permitted for beginners. Before competing, a good grasp of the basic techniques, rules and requirements are taught to ensure a safe competing environment. While students may be initially apprehensive about attending these events, they are a useful way to help see how some of the techniques taught in lessons are used and applied. Kumite Competitions are held in an area eight metres by eight metres and strictly controlled by a referee who is allowed to move freely in the area. Four corner judges will also be present seated at the side of the area who will assist the referee. A round normally lasts for 2 3 minutes with the aim for the competitor to get a fully focused blow to the target area (the head and the front and back of the truck). If the blow if perfectly executed (i.e. has good focus, balance, kiai, attitude etc) and does not land with excessive force should normally make the referee stop the match for a moment and award a score. The points system terms used are: Ippon full point Waza-ari half point For a competitor to win a bout, they generally have to score ippon and move up to the next round with another competitor. Kata During the early stages of the kata rounds, two competitors face each other and perform kata simultaneously. Competitions are held in an area with the same dimensions as the kumite matches. The katas used are referred to as shitei katas (hiean shodan, heian nidan, heian sandan, heian yondan, heian godan) which are the first five kata students learn. A referee and four corner judges will decide on a flag system which competitor goes through to the next stage. During the semi final stages onward of the competition, competitors perform more advanced (or Sentei) kata on an individual basis with scoring occurring on a points system by the referee and four corner judges. Other terms used in competitions: Aka Red (a red tag is placed on the belt to held judges identify competitors) Shiro white (i.e. no tag) Rei Bow Hajime Start Yame - Stop Hantei decision of the referee panel Aiuchi Simultaneous point (no score) Hansoku Foul Shikkaku disqualification For further details of forthcoming competitions and events, please speak to one of the instructors.
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Lewisham Shotokan Karate Centre 2006 |
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