Types of Kyokushin Kumite

Standard Kyokushin Kumite

Standard Kyokushin kumite is the most widely recognized form. It is full-contact body fighting without punches to the face, while kicks, knees, and controlled head kicks are permitted. Victory is achieved through knockout, clear dominance, or judges’ decision.

This format builds conditioning, durability, distance control, and relentless fighting spirit (osu no seishin). It is the foundation of Kyokushin training and competition worldwide.

Shinken Shobu

Shinken Shobu kumite represents true and serious combat. It is full-contact and continuous, allowing punches, kicks, knees, and elbows to the head and body, with protective equipment used as required by the ruleset.

The emphasis is on realism, fighting spirit, and the ability to apply Kyokushin techniques under conditions that closely resemble an actual confrontation. Fighters are expected to maintain forward pressure, proper distancing, and decisive technique while demonstrating control and awareness.

Kyokushinkan Shinken Shobu develops adaptability, mental toughness, and the capacity to fight effectively when all targets are available. It serves as a bridge between standard Kyokushin kumite and unrestricted combat, while remaining firmly rooted in Kyokushin principles.

All-Range Fighting

All-range fighting integrates striking, clinch work, throws, sweeps, and limited groundwork into a continuous and realistic format. The objective is to remain effective at every distance, long range, close range, and transitional phases.

Strikes include punches, kicks, knees, and elbows, with emphasis on maintaining balance, structure, and forward pressure. Clinching is used to control, off-balance, strike, or throw the opponent, rather than to stall. Ground engagement is limited and controlled, prioritizing rapid resolution and the ability to return to standing dominance.

This format develops adaptability, composure, and practical fighting ability under pressure. All-range fighting reflects a holistic combat approach, bridging traditional karate, knockdown fighting, and real-world applicability, while reinforcing the Kyokushin ideal of complete and decisive combat effectiveness.

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