Katas

1. Color belts should perform lower level katas (Heians)
2. Brown belts should perform intermediate level katas
3. Black belts should perform advanced level katas.

Criteria of Points

1. Contestants must demonstrate courtesy by bowing respectfully to the chief judge before and after the kata.
2. Katas shoul dbe performed with strong stances, correct timing and rhythm, focus, spirit (kiai), proper movements, and no hesitations.
3. Contestants performing a basic ata well should receive a higher score than a contestant who performs the above criteria average or poorly with an advanced kata.
4. Advanced katas require good basic ansd quick/fluid movements that are natural. If a contestant performs an advanced kata with only basic movements and mechanical rhythm, the kata will be judged as a basic kata.

Non-influencing Factors

1. Applause of jeers from spectators.
2. Excessively long or extra kiais.
3. Gymnastic type movements.
4. Vibrating hands to stimulate kime.
5. Theatrics and over-acting.
6. Crowd favorites.
7. Students, family, or friends competing.

Scoring

1. Of the five scores, the high and low will be taken out.
2. The three remaining scores are added to reach a total score.
3. In the event of a tie, the lowest score will be added.
4. If there still a tie, the highest score will be added.
5. if a tie remains, the intermediate and advanced contestants perform a different kata. beginners perform the same kata.
6. An average of 6.0 is used for beginners and intermediates, 6.5 for brown belts, and 7.0 for black belts.

Upcoming Tournaments