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Para Taekwondo

Para Taekwondo

Para taekwondo made its Paralympic debut at Rio 2016. Athletes with arm impairments compete in this dynamic combat sport focusing on kicks and footwork.

Sport History

Explore the evolution of para taekwondo from its world championships to Paralympic inclusion.

2016

Paralympic Debut

Para taekwondo was included in the Paralympic Games for the first time in Rio.

Key Facts

  • Competition Type

    Individual sparring matches

  • Match Duration

    Three 2-minute rounds

  • Paralympic Sport Since

    2020 Tokyo Paralympics

  • Governing Body

    World Taekwondo (WT)

Equipment

Para taekwondo uses the same protective equipment as Olympic taekwondo:

  • Electronic body protector
  • Head protector with electronic sensors
  • Forearm and shin guards
  • Groin guard and mouthpiece