Event Description :: En-bu  (choreographed self-defense)

En-bu is a relatively new event. Loosely defined as choreographed self-defense, En-bu is a highly structured demonstration of stylized kumite between two team members. En-bu is governed by very complex requirements and penalties.

En-bu is divided in two categories: Woman-Man and Man-Man

The only difference between categories is that both team members in man-man En-bu may initiate an attack while in woman-man En-bu only the man may initiate an attack.

  • Rules of En-bu

The En-bu demonstration must be 60 seconds in length (plus or minus 5 seconds).  Time is calculated from the first movement of either competitor to the return of both competitors to their start positions.

Offense must execute at least one Choku-zsuki (straight punch), Mae-geri (front kick), Mawashi-geri (round house kick), and Ushiro-geri (rear thrust kick).

Defense must avoid all attacks by Uke (blocking), Sabake (shifting) or Kawashi (switching).

Grabbing, clinching, and breaking balance are allowed.

Contact is prohibited by both sides except in blocking or breaking balance.

Defense must execute Todome (killing blow) at the conclusion of the demonstration.

  • Scoring

During elimination rounds, scoring is determined by the application of basic points minus penalty points. During finals, scoring is determined by the application of basic points plus skill points, plus skill points minus penalty points.

  • Basic Points

Technique - Degree of power, continuity, stance and coherence of movements
Timing as established by Kumite rules and Maai (effective distance for proper application of technique)
Budo Aspect - Intensity, mental concentration, and fighting spirit.
Choreography - demonstration of traditional karate technique, realism, and smooth transition.

  • Skill points

Mastery of technical details and understanding of application.
Impression the demonstration gives in terms of realistic and efficient execution of movement and the display of a high level of technical skill with grace and strong spirit.