Understanding the legal target zones is essential for scoring and safety in Kumite. Here’s a breakdown of where strikes and grabs are permitted:
👊 A. Legitimate Targets for Punches
| ✅ Punch Target Areas |
|---|
| Shoulders and Arms |
| Chest |
| Abdomen |
| Ribs |
🦵 B. Legitimate Targets for Kicks
| ✅ Kick Target Areas |
|---|
| Head |
| Face |
| Shoulders and Arms |
| Chest |
| Abdomen |
| Ribs |
| Thighs |
⚠️ Kicks to these areas must be controlled and delivered with proper technique.
🤝 C. Grabbing Techniques
| Type of Grab | Rules |
|---|---|
| ✋ Single-Hand Grab | Allowed on any shoulder; must be released after 3 seconds or 1 technique |
| 👐 Two-Hand Grab (Mawashi Uke) | Both arms may grab one side; must be followed by a kick, throw, or sweep and released after 3 seconds |
📚 EXPLANATION: Throwing & Sweeping Techniques
Ashihara Karate recognizes the following:
🌀 Throwing Techniques
- Maki Komi Nage
- Ura Nage
- Hiki Taoshi
🧹 Sweeping Techniques
- Ashi Barai
- Jiku-ashi Geri
- Cutting Kicks
These techniques must be executed with control, precision, and within the rules to be considered valid.