In Taekwondo, points are awarded for accurately and powerfully delivered techniques to specific target areas. Here's a breakdown of how scoring works:
Scoring System
The scoring system in Taekwondo aims to reward effective offensive techniques delivered with power and precision. Points are awarded based on the technique used and the target area struck.
Point Allocation
The number of points awarded for a technique depends on its difficulty and the target area it hits. Here's a breakdown:
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1 Point:
- Punch to the body (protected area)
- Punch to the head (protected area)
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2 Points:
- Jumping kick to the body (protected area)
- Kick to the head (protected area)
- Jumping punch to the head (protected area)
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3 Points:
- Jumping kick to the head (protected area)
Additional Considerations
- Valid Target Areas: Points are only awarded when techniques land on designated scoring zones, which are typically the trunk of the body (covered by the hogu or chest protector) and the head.
- Power and Accuracy: A technique must be delivered with sufficient power and accuracy to register as a valid scoring strike.
- Electronic Scoring System: In modern Taekwondo competitions, electronic scoring systems are often used to detect valid strikes and automatically award points. Sensors in the chest protector and headgear register the impact.
- Referees: Referees play a crucial role in overseeing the match and ensuring fair scoring. They can award additional points or penalties for various infractions.
- Knockdowns: A knockdown can result in an immediate win, depending on the rules of the specific competition.
- Gam-jeom (Penalties): Penalties awarded to the opponent result in points being added to your score.
Example
Imagine a Taekwondo match. A competitor executes a spinning back kick that lands squarely on their opponent's head, registered by the electronic scoring system. This would award them 2 points, because it is a kick to the head. Now, if the same competitor were to deliver the same strike but while in the air, and it connected squarely to the opponent's head; they would be awarded 3 points due to it being a Jumping Kick to the head.
Summary
Taekwondo scoring hinges on the precise execution of techniques with sufficient power and accuracy. The point values are weighted to reward more challenging and dynamic offensive actions.
