Amateur Kickboxing Rules

Kickboxing is a popular sport that has many levels of competition, from recreational workouts to professional kickboxing. In amateur kickboxing, competitors must follow specific rules tied to the sport, such as legal and illegal strikes, required equipment, and predetermined scoring methods in matches.

  1. Match Timing

    • Amateur kickboxing matches last a total of three rounds, each lasting two minutes. If necessary, there may be a fourth, overtime period after the completion of the first three rounds. Competitors are allowed a one-minute rest period in between each round.

    Match Scoring

    • Matches are scored on a 10-point scale system, similar to that of boxing. The determined winner of a round will receive 10 points, while the other competitor will usually receive nine, eight, seven or six points. Competitors must land a minimum of six "hard" kicks per round to essentially be eligible to win that round. A standing eight count is in effect during the match where at the end of the count if a competitor is unable to stand up, it is considered a knockdown.

    Allowed Moves

    • All punches must land above the waist and must hit the opponent's body with the padded side of the glove. All kicks must be landed to the head or the front area of the opponent. Strikes using the head, knees or elbows, or strikes to the back of the head, neck, throat or back area are not allowed during a match.

    Illegal Moves

    • Throws are not allowed in amateur kickboxing. If a competitor intentionally holds or pulls his opponent, it will result in a warning from the referee for the first infraction and a one-point deduction every time thereafter. If a competitor punches or kicks below the waist line or in any other area of the body deemed not legal, she will be penalized one point. Also, a competitor may not hit or attempt to hit an opponent after the bell signifying the end of the round has sounded.

    Equipment

    • Competitors must wear 12-ounce gloves that are in very good condition. Gloves are usually provided by the sponsor of the competition or tournament. Foot pads, a mouthpiece, hand wraps, a groin cup, head gear and shin pads are also required in competition but must be provided by the competitors themselves.