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Dimensions for Karate

Karate (kara meaning empty and te meaning hand) is a martial art whose protocols and technical language have emanated from ancient Japan. Its wide spectrum of techniques include a myriad of blocks, strikes, kicks, evasions and throws.

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The information in this guide is general in nature and cannot be relied upon as professional advice concerning the design of, or marking out for, sporting facilities and playing areas. No assurance is given as to the accuracy of any information contained in this guide and readers should not rely on its accuracy. Readers should obtain their own independent and professional advice in relation to their proposed sporting activity.

Competition area

The competition area must be flat and devoid of hazard.Karate competition area

The competition area is a matted 8m square, with an additional 2m on all sides as a safety area. 

A line half a metre long is drawn 2m from the centre of the competition area for positioning the referee.

Two parallel lines 1m long and at right angles to the referee’s line is drawn at a distance 1.5m from the centre of the competition area for positioning the competitors.

The judges are seated in the safety area, one directly facing the referee and one behind each of the fighters, 1m towards the referee. Each has a red and a blue flag.

The arbitrator is seated at a small table just outside the safety area, behind and to the left of the referee. He is equipped with a red flag or sign and a buzzer.

The score-supervisor is seated at the official score table between the scorekeeper and the timekeeper.

The 1m border is a different colour from the rest of the matted area.

The contestant wearing a red belt is referred to as AKA and the contestant wearing a blue belt is referred to as AO.

 
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