About

The Traditional Karate Judge Test is a certification exam for karate practitioners who want to become qualified judges in traditional karate tournaments.
The test assesses the candidates' fundamental knowledge of the rules, regulations, and principles of traditional karate, as well as their ability to apply them in various scenarios.
The test also evaluates the candidates' skills in judging across various traditional karate disciplines (incl. Kata, Kumite, Enbu, Fukugo, Kogo kumite).
The test itself is not meant to substitute practical judging seminars and licensing courses.

Traditional karate is a dynamic and evolving martial art that requires constant learning and development from its practitioners, especially from those who take on the role of judges. It is truly a life long activity without any limits – it is an art.
Karate judges need to keep up with the latest updates and changes in the rules and regulations of traditional karate, as well as the best practices and standards of judging.
Karate judges also need to refurbish their skills in observing, analyzing, and evaluating the performance of the competitors, as well as their own performance as judges.
Karate judges should seek feedback and guidance from senior and experienced judges, as well as from their peers and colleagues, to improve their knowledge and skills.
Karate judges should also participate in regular training sessions, seminars, workshops, and courses to enhance their competence and confidence as judges.
As Karate is a Martial Art, even the way of judging and controlling the matches should become an art by itself.

The best way to prepare for the Traditional Karate Judge Test is to study the official rulebook of traditional karate, the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF) competition rules, Fudokan Traditional Karate rules and Fudokan Traditional Karate Codex.
The rulebook contains the detailed and comprehensive information on the rules, regulations, and protocols of traditional karate, as well as the criteria and guidelines for judging.
The candidates should also familiarize themselves with the history of Karate as a sport as well as a martial art.
The test covers the theoretical aspects of traditional karate judging, such as the history, philosophy, and principles of traditional karate, the code of ethics and conduct of karate judges, and a straightforward interpretation and application of the rules and regulations.
The candidates should also practice their judging skills by watching and analyzing videos of traditional karate tournaments, or by attending and observing live events, if possible.
The candidates should also seek advice and feedback from qualified and experienced karate judges and instructors, who can help them identify their strengths and weaknesses, and provide them with tips and suggestions for improvement.