Point Fighting is one of the fastest and most technical disciplines in kickboxing. Instead of relying on maximum punching power, fighters need speed, precision, excellent timing and controlled techniques. After a valid scoring technique, the action is stopped briefly before the fight continues – creating the explosive rhythm that makes Point Fighting so distinctive.
Many martial artists still know the discipline by its former name, Semi Contact Kickboxing. Today, Point Fighting is an established WAKO competition discipline and is also practised competitively in Switzerland.
But how does Point Fighting actually work? Which techniques are allowed, how are points scored, and what Point Fighting equipment do you need for training and competition? In this guide, we explain the fundamentals, the differences between Point Fighting and other kickboxing disciplines, and what to look for when choosing gloves, protective gear and WAKO competition equipment.
What is Point Fighting?
Point Fighting is a kickboxing discipline in which two athletes attempt to score with fast, technically clean and controlled hand and foot techniques.
Unlike continuous fighting disciplines, the action is stopped after a valid score. The judges indicate the score and the fight is then restarted.
This creates the characteristic Point Fighting style: short, explosive exchanges rather than prolonged combinations and continuous contact.
Important skills include:
- Speed
- Timing
- Precision
- Distance management
- Balance
- Reaction speed
- Clean and controlled technique
Point Fighting is therefore much more than simply “kickboxing with less contact”. Its tactics, movement and fighting style differ considerably from other kickboxing disciplines.
Point Fighting vs Semi Contact: What is the difference?
The terms are often used for the same discipline. Point Fighting is the modern term used in WAKO competition, while Semi Contact is the older name that is still widely used by clubs, athletes and retailers.
This is why you will also find suitable equipment in our Vikingstore Semi Contact & Point Fighting category.
Both terms are still relevant when looking for equipment. Searches for Semi Contact gloves, Point Fighting gloves or Semi Contact foot protection generally refer to equipment designed for this style of kickboxing.
How does a Point Fighting match work?
Two athletes compete against each other on a tatami fighting area and attempt to score with permitted techniques.
The crucial difference compared with continuous kickboxing disciplines is simple:
After a valid score, the action is stopped.
The referee stops the fight, the judges indicate the score and the match is then restarted.
This has a major influence on tactics.
In Light Contact, for example, combinations can continue while the fight remains active. In Point Fighting, athletes frequently work explosively to enter the correct distance, land a clear technique and immediately regain control of their position.
This is one reason why Point Fighting matches can look incredibly fast.
Which techniques are allowed in Point Fighting?
Point Fighting allows a variety of hand and foot techniques. Depending on the applicable rules, these include punches and different kicks such as front kicks, side kicks, roundhouse kicks and hook kicks.
Jumping and spinning techniques are also an important part of Point Fighting.
However, it is not only where you hit that matters, but also how the technique is delivered.
Techniques must be controlled. Excessive or uncontrolled contact is not the objective of Point Fighting.
The exact permitted techniques and target areas are defined by the relevant competition rules. Athletes preparing for competition should therefore always check the latest regulations.
How are points scored in Point Fighting?
Not every contact automatically results in a score.
A technique needs to be legal, controlled and delivered to a permitted target area. It must also be clearly recognisable to the officials.
This is why precision and timing are more important than raw power.
Point Fighters spend a great deal of time learning how to catch an opponent at exactly the right moment – when they move forward, change distance or leave an opening for a fraction of a second.
This tactical element is one of the aspects that makes Point Fighting so interesting.
Point Fighting vs Light Contact: What is the difference?
Both Point Fighting and Light Contact are kickboxing disciplines, but the way a match is conducted is significantly different.
In Point Fighting, the action is stopped after a valid score. Individual fast and precise techniques therefore play a particularly important role.
In Light Contact, the fight generally continues. Athletes work more with continuous combinations and their performance is evaluated throughout the ongoing fight.
As a result, the fighting styles are different as well.
A successful Point Fighter needs explosive footwork, fast reactions and excellent distance management. Light Contact places greater emphasis on continuous combinations and a different fighting rhythm.
What equipment do you need for Point Fighting?
The correct Point Fighting equipment is important not only for protection. In official competitions, the equipment also needs to comply with the applicable rules.
Typical Point Fighting equipment includes:
- Point Fighting gloves
- Headguard
- Mouthguard
- Groin protection
- Shin guards
- Foot protection
- Additional protective equipment depending on the competition category
WAKO treats Point Fighting gloves as a specific type of protective equipment. They should therefore not simply be confused with conventional closed boxing gloves.
At Vikingstore, you can find suitable products in our Semi Contact & Point Fighting equipment category.
Point Fighting gloves
Point Fighting gloves have a different construction from traditional boxing gloves.
They are designed for the fast hand techniques and specific requirements of Point Fighting. Before entering an official competition, athletes should always check which models are approved under the applicable rules.
A standard pair of 10 OZ boxing gloves is not automatically suitable for Point Fighting competition.
Shin guards and foot protection
The legs and feet also need appropriate protection.
Because kicking techniques play such an important role in Point Fighting, shin guards and foot protection need to fit securely. Protective equipment that is too large or moves around during a fight can interfere with fast footwork and kicking techniques.
Competition equipment should therefore be tested during training before being used in a tournament.
What do Point Fighters wear?
Point Fighting also has its own distinctive competition clothing.
Under WAKO competition rules, Point Fighting athletes wear suitable upper-body competition clothing together with long Point Fighting trousers.
This creates a noticeably different appearance from disciplines such as boxing or Muay Thai, where athletes generally compete in shorts.
Leone1947 now also offers competition clothing specifically designed for WAKO Point Fighting, allowing athletes to coordinate their uniform with their protective equipment.
WAKO Point Fighting in Switzerland
Point Fighting is also an established competitive kickboxing discipline in Switzerland.
WAKO Switzerland includes Point Fighting among its tatami competition disciplines alongside Light Contact and Kick Light.
Athletes who want to compete in Switzerland should check both the current rules and the specific requirements of the tournament they are entering.
This is particularly important when choosing competition equipment.
What WAKO equipment do you need for competition?
If you are training recreationally, not every piece of equipment necessarily needs official competition approval.
Competition is different.
Before entering an official tournament, athletes should check exactly which protective equipment and clothing are permitted or required.
At Vikingstore, you can find our selection of WAKO competition equipment for this purpose.
Our range includes competition products and protective equipment from brands such as Leone1947. Leone's newer Point Fighting range also includes products specifically designed for this WAKO discipline.
Important: Competition approval should always be checked for the individual product. The fact that a manufacturer produces WAKO-approved equipment does not automatically mean that every product from that brand is approved for official WAKO competition.
Who is Point Fighting suitable for?
Point Fighting is particularly interesting for martial artists who enjoy speed, technical skill and tactical fighting.
If you like working with distance, fast kicks and explosive movement – and prefer outsmarting an opponent with timing rather than relying purely on power – Point Fighting may be an excellent discipline to explore.
Children and teenagers can also participate in Point Fighting competition, with different age categories and protective requirements defined by the applicable rules.
Training should always take place in a qualified martial arts club under appropriate instruction.
Common mistakes when buying Point Fighting equipment
One common mistake is buying ordinary boxing or kickboxing equipment and assuming that it will automatically be suitable for Point Fighting.
Before your first competition, pay particular attention to three things:
Fit: Protective equipment should remain securely in position during fast movements.
Purpose: Training equipment and official competition equipment are not necessarily the same.
Approval: Always check the current regulations and tournament requirements before competing.
And one practical tip: don't buy completely new competition equipment two days before your tournament. Gloves, foot protection and other protective equipment should be tested in training beforehand.
FAQ about Point Fighting
What is Point Fighting in simple terms?
Point Fighting is a kickboxing discipline in which athletes score points using fast, controlled hand and foot techniques. After a valid score, the action is briefly stopped before the fight continues.
Is Point Fighting the same as Semi Contact?
Semi Contact is the older term that is still widely used for the discipline now generally called Point Fighting in WAKO competition.
Is Point Fighting full contact?
No. Techniques are performed with controlled contact. Excessive or uncontrolled contact is not the objective of the discipline.
Do you need special gloves for Point Fighting?
Yes. Point Fighting uses specific gloves designed for the discipline. Conventional closed boxing gloves are not the same as Point Fighting gloves.
What protective equipment do you need for Point Fighting?
Typical competition equipment includes a headguard, mouthguard, Point Fighting gloves, groin protection, shin guards and foot protection. Additional requirements may apply depending on age and competition category.
Is Point Fighting practised in Switzerland?
Yes. WAKO Switzerland recognises Point Fighting as a tatami competition discipline and provides information and regulations for competitions in Switzerland.
Where can I buy Point Fighting equipment in Switzerland?
At Vikingstore, you can shop our Semi Contact & Point Fighting equipment as well as dedicated WAKO competition equipment. You can order online throughout Switzerland or visit our stores in Bern and St. Gallen.
Conclusion: Point Fighting is all about speed and precision
Point Fighting is a technical and highly specialised kickboxing discipline. Maximum power is not the deciding factor. Success depends on landing a fast, controlled and precise technique at exactly the right moment.
Timing, distance management, footwork and reaction speed are therefore just as important as good punching and kicking technique.
Anyone planning to compete in Point Fighting in Switzerland should become familiar with the current rules and equipment requirements well before their first tournament.
At Vikingstore, you can find Semi Contact & Point Fighting equipment as well as our selection of WAKO competition equipment. For current Swiss competition rules, tournaments and federation information, we also recommend checking WAKO Switzerland.
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