The following sections apply to both Points and Freestyle sparring.

DISTANCES

All attacks should be non-contact in nature. To ensure this, any attack (fist or foot) need only be within 10cm (i.e. approximately one of the attacker’s OWN fist-lengths) from the target and still be considered valid, provided the referees and judges deem it worthy of a point. The judges may use their discretion in the children’s divisions and allow up to 15cm.

RING CRAFT

Competitors should stay within the designated boundaries of the ring, specifically the “fight zone”, the light square on the inside of the ring, as shown in the image at right. Repeated failure to do so may result in points penalties as described below.

SAFETY AND PROTECTION

All competitors shall ensure that personal jewellery, including any vulnerable body piercing items are removed before competing.

Finger and toe nails shall be kept short and should not constitute a risk of injury to another competitor.

Personal Protective Equipment must be worn when competing in combat events at the competition. This includes:

• GLOVES – (sparring events only) these must cover the knuckles and be soft enough to protect someone hit accidentally, while also protecting the knuckles of the wearer. They should also not have any rough edges. Boxing mitts/gloves are not permitted, nor hard gloves (like some bag mitts).
• SHIN/INSTEP PROTECTORS – (Sparring events only) These must cover the shins and instep, and must be worn under the uniform.
• MOUTH GUARDS – compulsory for all competitors in all combat divisions
• GROIN GUARDS – (sparring events only) compulsory for males. Optional for females.
• CHEST GUARDS – (sparring events only) optional for females.