FREE EVENTS

Building Strong Character through Competition

At the United Martial Arts Federation (UMA), we believe that every tournament should be an enjoyable and enriching experience for all participants. By offering a range of free events, new and exciting divisions, and numerous activities for youth and adults, we ensure that every participant leaves with a sense of accomplishment—whether they win or are inspired to continue improving. Winning or losing, the UMA emphasizes finding personal victory in knowing that you gave your best effort. We foster a champion's mindset in everything we do, inspiring participants to learn from their mistakes, grow, and return stronger.

Our free events are designed to inspire, challenge, and motivate young athletes, helping them train for greatness, strive for their best, and achieve their goals.

Participation Medals

UMA is committed to recognizing the efforts of young athletes. For children 12 and under, we award participation medals to celebrate their dedication and effort, not just victories. We understand that losing can be discouraging, especially when it happens repeatedly, but only recognizing winners can negatively impact those who don’t place first. By acknowledging all participants, we build confidence, inspire continued participation, and cultivate strong character. This practice helps young athletes leave with a sense of pride and motivation for future success.

Free Events Rules & Regulations

Participants must still adhere to all tournament rules and regulations (see "Tournament Conduct"). Key rules include:

1. Participation in these events is optional.

2. Before each event begins, a judge will introduce and explain the event, followed by a demonstration.

3. Free events are open to participants aged 12 and younger.

4. Participants must follow instructions provided.

Free Events Divisions

1. Best Kick (Free Event)
   Participants compete by demonstrating a specified kick. The best-executed kick, judged based on the participant's rank (belt color), speed, and ability to follow instructions, will earn a medal.

   Criteria for Judging:

   • Proper technique based on rank

   • Speed of execution

   • Ability to follow instructions

2. Flexibility (Free Event)
   Flexibility is essential for martial artists to perform at their best. Participants who can successfully perform a full split, holding the position without assistance for 10 seconds, will receive a medal.

   Event Guidelines:

   • A demonstration of the correct split technique will be given beforehand.

   • Participants have 30 seconds to warm up.

   • The legs and midsection must fully touch the ground, and participants must remain silent.

   • No assistance is allowed; the split must be done independently.

3. Push-ups, Sit-ups, and Dips (Free Event)
   These exercises help develop strength and are crucial for a fighter’s conditioning. Participants will compete to complete as many push-ups, sit-ups, or dips as possible with proper form.

   Event Guidelines:

   • Once a participant stops or fails to maintain correct form, their count will be recorded.

   • Males and females compete separately.

   • Only properly executed repetitions will count.

   • Judges will provide demonstrations of correct form before the event.

   • Participants must maintain a moderate pace, as instructed by the judge.

   Special Recognition:
   The participant with the highest push-up count across all competitors will receive a certificate and recognition on the UMA website.

These free events are part of UMA’s mission to build confidence, resilience, and the spirit of healthy competition in every young athlete.

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