Kobudo Competition Rules 

1. Eligibility 

• Divisions are typically based on:

  • Age: Youth, Junior, Adult, Senior.

  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced.

  • Rank: Belts must correspond to the competitor’s rank.

2. Uniform and Equipment

• Competitors can wear a clean, white karate gi (uniform) with no patches except for national or organizational logos.

• Belts must match the competitor’s rank.

• Weapons: Only traditional Okinawan weapons are allowed, including:

  • Bo Staff

  • Sai

  • Tonfa

  • Nunchaku

  • Kama

• Weapons must be safe and in good condition (no sharp edges or broken parts). Foam or rubber weapons are not permitted.

3. Kata Performance

• Competitors should perform traditional kobudo kata 

• The kata must be performed as a single, continuous sequence without pauses or restarts.

4. Judging Criteria

Performances are evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Technical Performance (70%):

   • Accuracy of techniques, stances, and transitions.

   • Proper handling and control of the weapon.

2. Athletic Performance (20%):

   • Power, speed, balance, and rhythm.

   • Control and stability throughout the kata.

3. Spirit and Presentation (10%):

   • Focus, intensity, and overall impression.

   • Demonstration of confidence and intent (kime).

5. Scoring

• Judges score performances on a scale (e.g., 5.0 to 10.0).

• The highest and lowest scores are often dropped, and the remaining scores are averaged.

• In case of a tie, competitors may perform the same kata again or a different kata, depending on the division rules.

6. Prohibited Actions

• Performing an incorrect or unrecognized kata.

• Pausing, restarting, or stopping during the performance (unless due to external factors).

• Using non-traditional or unsafe weapons.

• Exceeding the time limit (if applicable).

7. Time Limit

• Performances typically have a time limit of 3-5 minutes, depending on the division.

• Exceeding the time limit may result in point deductions or disqualification.

8. Code of Conduct

• Competitors must bow upon entering and leaving the competition area, as well as to the judges.

• Respectful behavior toward judges, fellow competitors, and the audience is required.

• Unsportsmanlike conduct (e.g., arguing with judges, disrespect) will result in penalties or disqualification.

Adaptations for Para Kobudo

If the event includes divisions for athletes with disabilities, adaptations may include:

• Modified kata performance to suit the competitor’s abilities.

• Judging criteria that emphasize effort, adaptability, and spirit.

• Allowance for a support person in the ring if needed.

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Let’s honor the tradition of Kobudo with skill, precision, and respect!