Para taekwondo is an adaptive martial art and combat sport that allows athletes with physical impairments to compete in taekwondo events. It has been recognized by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and is growing in popularity around the world. The sport combines elements of traditional taekwondo techniques with adaptations to accommodate athletes with impairments.
Para Taekwondo
Overview
Events & Disciplines
Kyorugi (K – sparring)
- Male K44/43* Under 61kg, 75kg, Over 75kg
- Female K44/43* Under 49kg, 58kg, Over 58kg
* K44 medal events are open to K43 athletes of the same weight category.
Rules & Equipment
Contest Area: The Competition Area is composed of a Contest Area and a Safety Area. The Contest Area and Safety Area shall have a flat surface without any obstructing projections and be covered with a World Taekwondo (WT) recognized mat elastic and non-slippery mat. The size shall be no smaller than 10mx10m and no larger than 12m x 12m. At the centre of the Competition Area shall be the octagonal-shaped Contest Area. The Contest Area shall measure approximately 8m in diameter, and each side of the octagon shall have a length of approximately 3.3m. The Outer Line of the Safety Area shall be inclined at a gradient of less than 30 degrees, for the safety of the contestants. The Contest Area and the Safety Area shall be different colours, as specified in the relevant competition’s Technical Manual
Duration of the Contest: Depending on the event, tournament organizers will determine the competition format.
Scoring: The contest score shall be the sum of points of the three (3) rounds or the final score at the end of the round in the case one round system duration of the contest is used. In Kyorugi, foot techniques are the only valid scoring technique. Point(s) shall be awarded when a scoring technique is delivered to the scoring areas of the trunk with power and accuracy.
Personal Protective Equipment: A contestant shall wear a WT-approved uniform or dobok, groin guard, shin guards, forearm guards, hand protector (if applicable), sensor socks and mouth guard before entering the Field of Play. Para-taekwondo athletes may use additional and personalized protective equipment based on the prior approval of WT.
Classification
There are four sport classes in Para taekwondo, K41 to K44, each divided according to weight. At Tokyo 2020, there are events for competitors in the K43 or K44 classes only (K43 athletes compete up a class), with three weight classes each for men and women.
K43 includes athletes with bilateral amputation below the elbow, or equivalent loss of function in both upper limbs.
K44 includes athletes with unilateral arm amputation (or equivalent loss of function), or loss of toes which impact the ability to lift the heel properly.