How far and long to hold, to score a point?

[KarateGirl1387]

I agree. Point sparring is very subjective and even the slightest movement forward of your opponent's head while you're punching at them can make it look like head contact. (Plus, the judges are watching from different angles so perspectives are another thing to take into consideration.) As mentioned above, it all depends upon the rules of the tourney you're at. The ones I've competed at in Minnesota don't allow head contact.

[ladyj]

You have to base your contact on each ring set up. Generally you have different judges and each time you compete you have to adjust according to what they are allowing. It is always good if you can watch a match or two in the ring before its your turn.

[Jiffy]

Piece of advice.

The judge is never wrong. Doesn't matter what you think, whatever they say, goes.

If he says it didn't score, it didn't, period.

The sooner you learn that, the sooner you'll do well in competition. The art of competition is not about what works, it's about what the judges like. Make it LOOK effective, even if it's not in the street. Hold it for only a moment and get as close as you can to hitting the face without actually hitting.

The rest is up to the judge.

[cathal]

In JKA tourneys I've participated in it is quick, about a second. If you leave your arm out there it's getting grabbed.