Kata VS Kumite In Karate
What are the differences between Kumite and Kata in Karate?
- Style Differences
- Rule Differences
- Scoring Differences
- Penalty Differences
Style Differences
Kata literally translates to form, is the discipline where martial artists perform various offensive and defensive techniques by themselves or with a group of people. It is a performative discipline that does not involve two athletes fighting against each other. There are 91 different moves that are recognized by the World Karate Federation, and they involve punching and kicking for attacks or defense that were created to keep the opponent in mind. This is what makes it different from other performing arts.
Kumite is the other discipline of karate which involves two opponents sparring against each other. Competitors can use punches, kicks or takedowns to deliver blows to their opponents. It is a sport that puts a lot of importance on technique because you cannot deliberately injure your opponent. All techniques need to be kept under control so you can score points.
Rule Differences
Kata Rules
In all kata competitions, the two teams or individuals are recognized by wearing blue or red belts. In kata, the team or individual with the red belt goes first.
Kumite Rules
In kumite there is a referee and four other judges to determine the winner of the match. Men's competitions last three minutes and women's are two. The competition is won by having more points than your opponent by the end of the match, or having 8 points more than the opponent at any point of the match. Other rules can be broken down into scoring, penalties and required equipment.
Scoring Rules
While in a kumite competition, you can use different techniques that can give you one to three points. Here is a table that breaks down those techniques and the amount of points they are awarded.
| TECHNIQUE | POINTS AWARDED |
|---|---|
| Yuko (A) - Straight Punch to the Body | 1 Point |
| Yuko (B) - Straight Punch to the Face | 1 Point |
| Wazari - Kick to the Body | 2 Points |
| Ippon (A) Kick to the Head | 3 Points |
| Ippon (B) - Punch to the opponent who has been taken down | 3 Points |
In kata, a winner is determined by five judges who score the competitors based on technique, power, stance and athleticism. At the end of both performances, the judges hold up a red or blue flag to display their choice, and the competitor with at least 3 flags raised in their favor wins.
Penalty Differences
In Kumite competitions, athletes can be penalized for the following moves.
- Excessive Contact: Techniques should be under control and should not be delivered to injure your opponent.
- Stepping Out of Bounds: Unless pushed out by your opponent, you should try your best to stay within the competition mat.
- Grabbing with Both Hands: You are allowed to briefly grab your opponent with one hand before delivering a strike. However, grabbing with both hands is prohibited.
In Kata competitions, you receive penalties if your form is sloppy or if you lose balance. The key to receiving a good score in kata is to maintain great technique throughout the entire performance.
FAQ
What does kumite mean in karate?
Kumite means grappling hands in karate. In a kumite match, competitors use punches, kicks and takedowns to score on their opponent. Normally, grappling would be done on the ground via wrestling, jiu jitsu or any form of mixed martial arts. However, kumite is a standing competition so the only things that are "grappling" are the hands of the two opponents.
How do you bow in karate?
Bowing is a sign of respect not only in karate, but all martial arts. Here is how to bow in karate.
While standing upright with your heels together, point your feet out to create a "V." Then keep your knees and elbows straight and relaxed, and keep your hands open, fingers together and place them by the seams of your pants. Bend 20 degrees at the waist and lean forward. The entire bow should be the length of you breathing in and out.
Why is it important to practice kata?
Kata is often overlooked in karate because it is seen as a performative discipline of the sport, however this is far from the truth. Practicing kata can have great benefits like the ones shown below.
- Develops Proper Body Mechanics: It helps you improve on techniques that you would use during competitions by focusing on distributing the power of your strikes from your hips and core.
- Creates Muscle Memory: Constant repetition of techniques can allow you to perform them instinctively without worrying about doing them properly.
- Develops Mindfulness: Kata can be used as a great training method to remain present while in competition, and everyday life.
- Develops Proper Breathing: Kata helps you breathe from your diaphragm, which is the breathing technique used in martial arts.
Why do people shout "kiai" in karate?
The kiai is a chant that is shouted after delivering a strike in karate. It comes from the words "ki" which means life force and "ai" which means to harmonize. So it literally means to harmonize or concentrate on your life force. It is used in karate to create a sense of awareness in the strikes you are delivering.