Praying Mantis Kung Fu
 
 

I.S.J.A Sport Jujitsu Rules

KUMITE - Free Style Fighting Rules

Each match consists of one-four minute continuous action round (all matches under adult black belt will consist of one-three minute round). Players win by decision or by tap out submission (submission by referee intervention will result in points awarded). Points can also be achieved for kicks, punches, throws, takedowns and groundwork.

The criteria for grappling will allow a player to hold his/her opponent in any legal manner for 10 seconds while standing and working for a takedown or throw. If a throw or takedown has not occurred the players are separated and signaled to continue. A full throw (both feet leaving the mat) scores 3 points. A half throw (one-foot leaving the mat) scores 2 points. When a player has been taken to the ground, his/her opponent has 3 seconds to score with a strike (hand only). The player taken down can also score from the mat with a counter throw, sweep or strike (hand or foot). A player who is on the ground because of an illegal technique may not be scored on.

Each time both players end up on the mat following a legal sweep, take-down, or throw, they are given up to 60 seconds of ground work (all divisions under adult black belt have 30 seconds of ground work) to achieve mount points or submission. At the end of grappling time the players are separated, brought back to their feet and resume fighting. Absolutely no chokes or joint locks in any division under the age of 13. The primary grappling objective of these divisions will be to achieve throws and the mounted position.

In the case of a stalemate during groundwork the centre referee may call "stalemate" and count 20 seconds. If, at the end of the count, there still exists a groundwork stalemate then both fighters are to be restarted in a separated upright position.

In the case of a draw at the end of the round, an additional round will be fought. If it is still a draw, the three judges will accumulate the points for each fighter, with the most accumulated points determining the winner.

Points are awarded for:

1 Point - is awarded for crisp, clean striking techniques delivered to the body with either hand or foot. In the adult black belt divisions stiff contact to the body is mandatory to score a point. Any tackle takedown including a double leg shoot.

2 Points are awarded for: a controlled kick to the head that makes no more than light contact (no contact to the head is allowed under adult brown & black belt divisions). Achieving the mounted position during ground work (this position must be held for 10 seconds as determined by the center referee). All divisions under black belt must control the mount for five seconds to be awarded points. A throw or sweep that causes one foot to leave the mat and result in a take-down.

3 Points - for a throw or sweep that causes both feet to leave the mat and results in a takedown.

4 Points - for a submission by referee intervention (Intervention would be to prevent injury) A player who causes his/her opponent to submit by tapping out gets the win. In black belt if a competitor is "winded" from a body strike and cannot continue for 10 seconds that is considered a submission.

Illegal Techniques

Fouls must be determined by the centre referee. No striking to the face mask area (nose and eyes), groin, spine, nor against any joint. Absolutely no head contact in any division under adult brown belt (18 and over). Points will be awarded for crisp clean techniques to the body and controlled techniques to the head. Strikes can be delivered with only the hand or foot (No knees, elbows, or head-butts). On the second warning, two points will be given to the opponent. A third warning results in automatic disqualification.

If a fighter is running outside of the ring simply to avoid engaging with the opponent, one warning will be given. Each additional time there after, two points will be given to the opponent and fighters will be returned to the center of the ring by the referee to resume in a grappling (standing lock-up) position. Once fighters are in a grappling situation with both hands on, there is no striking. If only one hand is on, then fighters are allowed one strike. When a fighter is taken to the mat, his opponent has three seconds to score one strike.

Only one sensei or coach is allowed in the competition area. All others must be outside of the barrier.

Safety Equipment & Attire

ISJA approved sparring gloves, saftey-kicks or shin and instep, and mouth guards are mandatory in all divisions. A groin protector must be worn in all male divisions. Headgear is mandatory for all divisions under age 17. Although headgear is not mandatory in the adult divisions, it is recommended for personal safety. No abrasive, rough, torn or loose equipment will be permitted. No protective gear shall be allowed to contain any metal or hard plastic.

A traditional martial arts gi in full must be worn. If your uniform becomes bloodied or torn in a manner that may affect the out-come of the match, you will be asked to replace it immediately or forfeit the match. A traditional jujitsu or judo top is recommended for the grappling divisions. Absolutely no tee shirts, shorts, or shoes of any kind will be permitted.

Tournament Rules:

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