Traditional Forms

Eligibility: Open to all participants, divided by age and belt rank. Mixed-gender divisions are allowed.
Form Style: Only traditional open-hand forms are permitted. No creative, freestyle, or musical elements are allowed.
Uniform: Competitors must wear traditional uniforms appropriate to their style, with belt rank clearly displayed.

Two competitors perform their forms simultaneously, standing side-by-side in the competition area.
Each judge will observe both performances and, at the end, independently select the competitor they believe performed best.

The competitor with the majority of judges’ votes (e.g., 2 out of 3 judges) will advance to the next round.

Each judge will independently vote based on the following aspects:
Technique and Precision: Execution of techniques with proper form, including stances, strikes, kicks, and blocks.
Power and Control: Display of power, balanced movements, and controlled energy without sacrificing form.
Focus and Spirit: Competitor’s concentration, intensity, and embodiment of traditional martial arts values.
Timing and Flow: Smooth transitions and consistent rhythm throughout the form.
Overall Presentation: Competitor’s confidence, composure, and overall performance quality.
Each judge will choose the competitor they believe best meets these criteria as the winner of the round.

Time Limits: Each competitor has up to 2 minutes to complete their form.
A 10-second preparation period is allowed for bowing and setting their stance.
Verbal Start Cue: Once both competitors are ready, a judge will verbally cue them to “Begin.”
Post-Performance Protocol: After completing their forms, competitors will bow to each other and the judges.

Immediate Decision: After both competitors finish, each judge immediately indicates their winner by raising a hand toward the chosen competitor. Judges do not confer; they make independent decisions based on their observations.
Majority Vote: The competitor with the majority of votes advances to the next round.
Tie-Breaker: In the rare case of a tie, a designated head judge casts the deciding vote.

Respect: Competitors must show respect to each other, judges, and all officials at all times.
Sportsmanship: Any disruptive behavior, such as distracting the opponent, will result in disqualification.
Judges’ Decisions Are Final: All votes are final, and any disputes must be handled through tournament officials respectfully.

Form Approval: Competitors may be asked to verify that their form aligns with traditional standards for their rank and style.
No Contact or Intimidation: The competition is skill-based. Any aggression, contact, or intimidation toward the opponent will result in disqualification.