Rules for IKF PKB/PMT/PBSC tournaments.
Apex Martial Arts Center proudly supports, hosts, and competes in International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) sanctioned semi-contact tournaments, including Point Kickboxing (PKB), Point Muay Thai (PMT), and Point Boxing (PBSC).
These events follow three distinct rule sets, which are outlined below. For a complete list of rules, please refer to the official IKF website.
Please note that these rules are different from full-contact regulations, which can be found at Triangle Kickboxing Promotions.
Allowed – all boxing punches are allowed. Spinning back fists are allowed. You can kick above the waist and to the inside and outside of the legs. Foot sweeps are legal, but you cannot strike above the ankle.
Not-Allowed – you cannot clinch, throw knees, or throw elbows and sweeps are not allowed. There is no striking to the back or top of the head. Catching kicks is not allowed. You cannot strike the knee.
Unified rules are the most popular rule set for events in the State and the most widely used.
Allowed – all boxing punches, including spinning back fists. Knees can be thrown, and you can clinch for up to 3-5 seconds. Knees must strike below the neck.
Not-Allowed – elbows and sweeps are not allowed. If you catch a kick, you must immediately counter and drop the leg (you cannot hold the leg). Cartwheel kicks are not allowed. No strikes to the back or top of the head are allowed and you cannot strike the knee. Throws are not permitted.
Allowed – all boxing punches and all kicks are allowed. Catching kicks, knees and sweeps are allowed.
Not-Allowed – no elbows. Dumps are not allowed (cannot pick someone up off the floor). No hip throws allowed. No spin sweeps.
Allowed – all boxing punches and all kicks are allowed. Clinch, elbows, knees and sweeps are allowed.
Not-Allowed – Dumps are not allowed (cannot pick someone up off the floor). No hip throws allowed. No spin sweeps.
In accordance with all amateur kickboxing regulations in North Carolina, the following safety equipment is mandatory for all competitors:
Headgear must be worn. Full-face headgear with jaw bars or full faceguards is permitted if a fighter chooses to wear one.
Male competitors are required to wear a groin protector.
Female competitors must wear a padded athletic sports bra.
All fighters must wear shin guards with foot protection and a properly fitted mouthguard.
We strongly discourage the use of red or pink mouthguards to avoid confusion with potential mouth injuries.
These rules are subject to ongoing review and updates. Please check back before your next competition to ensure you have the most current information.
