You win a karate match by scoring more points than your opponent by the end of the match, or by achieving an eight-point lead before time expires.
To elaborate, winning a karate match involves these key aspects:
- Scoring Points: Points are awarded for correctly executed techniques, judged by referees and judges.
- Achieving a Point Lead: The primary method of winning is to accumulate more points than your opponent within the allocated time.
- Eight-Point Advantage: A karateka can automatically win if they establish an eight-point lead at any point during the match before the time runs out. This is known as a "Senshu."
- Officials: The match is overseen by one referee, four judges, and a match supervisor.
In summary, victory in a karate match is achieved either by having a higher point total at the end of the match or by gaining a significant (eight-point) lead over your opponent before the match's conclusion.