Training · 6 min read
What Is Competitive Taekwondo? A Guide to Sparring and Tournaments
Scoring, gear, rules and what it takes to compete — explained for students and parents.
Taekwondo is an Olympic sport known for fast, powerful and acrobatic kicks. Here's how competition works.
How points are scored
Points are awarded for clean kicks and punches to the scoring areas, with more points for head kicks and spinning techniques.
Protective gear
Competitors wear a chest protector, headgear, mouthguard and forearm and shin guards. Many events use electronic scoring.
Forms competition
Not every competitor spars. Poomsae (forms) divisions judge accuracy, power and presentation.
What competition builds
Composure under pressure, goal setting and the ability to win and lose with grace.
How to get started
A dedicated competition team provides advanced conditioning, strategy and tournament coaching.