How are points scored?
Rule- USA
- USA Taekwondo
- Kyorugi (sparring)
- Youth 10-11
- Cadet 12-14
- 14 and under
- USATKD Kyorugi Rules 2026
- 2026 rules
- Coaches
Legal techniques: a straight punch with the knuckles of a tightly closed fist, and kicks with any part of the foot below the ankle bone. Punches and kicks can go to the trunk protector (not the spine). Only kicks can go to the head, and only where the division allows head contact.
Full Head Contact rules (2026):
| Technique | Points |
|---|---|
| Punch to the trunk protector | 1 |
| Kick to the trunk protector | 2 |
| Kick to the head | 3 |
| Turning kick to the trunk | 4 |
| Turning kick to the head | 6 |
| Each Gam-jeom given to the opponent | 1 (2 for passive behavior in the last 10 seconds of a round) |
Light Head Contact divisions: a light head kick scores 3 points, with no extra points for a turning kick to the head. Turning kicks to the trunk still score 4.
How points are counted:
- With the electronic scoring system (PSS), trunk and head kick points come from the sensors, which can be set to different levels by weight, gender and age group. The judges add the extra turning-kick points and score punches.
- A back kick only counts as a turning kick if the head and shoulders rotate.
- Without the electronic system, judges score everything, and most judges must agree for a point to count (2 of 3, or both of 2).
Added 21 Oct 2026