Self-Defense Techniques Division

Event Overview:
Self-Defense Techniques is a two-person event that simulates realistic martial arts self-defense scenarios. Competitors will demonstrate five self-defense techniques against simulated attacks by their teammate. The event highlights a balance of power, speed, accuracy, and technical skill in self-defense movements.

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Competition Structure:

• Teams of two participants will compete in a series of five self-defense techniques.

• Each team will face off against 3 to 5 other teams at one time.

• Each technique will be scored by three judges.

Scoring Criteria:

Each technique will be judged on the following factors:

1. Power

2. Speed

3. Accuracy

4. Form

5. Degree of Technical Difficulty

Scoring System:

• Techniques will be scored individually with a maximum of 5 points and a minimum of 1 point for each technique.

• Each technique will be evaluated on how smoothly it flows and the overall control demonstrated.

• The combined total score of both teammates for each technique will contribute to the overall team score.

Technique Requirements:

1. Each self-defense technique must include at least 6 movements, but no more than 12 movements.

2. Teammates must demonstrate different techniques; no technique can be repeated by a teammate.

3. The techniques will include:

   1. Countering a Punch (any punch of your choice)

   2. Countering a Kick (any kick of your choice)

   3. Rear Bear Hug (arms pinned)

   4. Two-Handed Front Push

   5. Headlock Escape

   6. Front Tackle

   7. Disarming a Person with a Stick

   8. Disarming a Person with a Knife

   9. Disarming a Person with a Gun

Control and Safety Guidelines:

• All techniques must be executed with control to avoid injury.

• Striking your teammate or using an uncontrolled throw may result in penalty points or disqualification.

• Throws, sweeps, and takedowns should be done with control, ensuring the teammate lands safely.

• No slamming or uncontrolled throws.

• If a teammate cannot recover from a mistake in their technique, they will receive the lowest score possible for that technique.

Props and Equipment:

• Props provided: Plastic or rubber knives and guns, and 2-foot sticks.

• You may bring your own props for creativity, as long as they are made of plastic or rubber.

• Participants must maintain control over props at all times.

• Knocked-out props may lead to point deductions or disqualification if they leave the competition area.

Gymnastic Movements:

• Judges will assess whether any gymnastic movements contribute to the technique’s martial value.

• Excessive or irrelevant gymnastic displays may not be scored favorably unless they clearly demonstrate martial effectiveness.

Dress Code:

• Participants may wear t-shirts or sweatshirts with their school’s logo or plain shirts.

• No unauthorized apparel is allowed.

• Uniform top removal is allowed for artistic expression or safety, but must be approved by tournament officials.

• Shirt: Should be plain or feature your school’s logo. If worn under a uniform, it must meet the same standards.

• Jacket sleeves: Must be no longer than the bend of the wrist, no shorter than halfway down the forearm. Sleeves should not be rolled up, and jacket ties must be properly tied.

• Pants: Must cover at least two-thirds of the shin, and cannot reach below the anklebone. Pants should not be rolled up.

• The UMA Tournament Official may authorize display of approved sponsor logos or trademarks.

Eligibility and Requirements:

• Belt Levels: Competitors must be at least a 3rd belt level to participate. White and yellow belts are not eligible.

• Team Composition: Teams must consist of members of the same belt level.

• Mixed-Gender Teams: Male and female competitors may compete together.

Disqualifications and Penalties:

• Competitors must adhere to all safety protocols. Failure to do so can result in disqualification.

• Unsportsmanlike conduct, such as failure to follow the rules or causing intentional harm, will result in immediate expulsion and forfeiture of any awards.

Conclusion:

This event is designed to showcase martial arts self-defense techniques, demonstrating the competitor’s technical proficiency, creativity, and control. All techniques should be executed with precision, skill, and care to ensure a fair and safe competition for all participants.

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