Kickboxing, Karate and Martial Arts Competitions

Tring kickboxing enters many national competitions over the year, including WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organisations), ISKA (International Sports Kickboxing Association), ECKA (English Contact Karate Association) and Combat Champions League.

Competitions are split into semi-contact, light-contact and full-contact categories. Semi-contact competitions are based upon point scoring. To score points, swift, clear techniques are rewarded, and the emphasis is not on power. Rounds are generally 1.30 to 2 minutes and the contestant who gains the most points is declared the winner. Trophies are normally awarded to the top 3 fighters.

Light-contact competitions are generally more physical, with the emphasis being on combinations and footwork. One to two two-minute rounds will be fought and points being awarded in a similar style to normal boxing matches. Trophies are normally awarded to the top 3 fighters.

Full-contact fights are the pinnacle of kickboxing competitions. Fighters are paired off based on weight and experience. Fights take place in a ring and scoring is similar to normal boxing matches with the aim to win by KO. Trophies are awarded to both fighters for taking part in full contact fights, with the sights being set on winning a belted title.

Entry into competitions is purely optional. However, as part of the grading syllabus, you will be expected to undertake in light sparring.

Video from the 2011 ECKA Fight Night: