What are the para taekwondo weight classes?
I · Intermediate · Athletes and equipment · 1 of 3Men fight up to 58, 63, 70 and 80 kg and over 80 kg; women up to 47, 52, 57 and 65 kg and over 65 kg. Limits are read to one decimal. The general weigh-in is the day before, with one retry. A random weigh-in on the morning allows 5% over the limit, and missing it means disqualification.
How it works
- Men: -58, -63, -70, -80, +80 kg.
- Women: -47, -52, -57, -65, +65 kg.
- Decimal: 58.0 kg in, 58.1 kg out.
- One category: per tournament.
- General weigh-in: day before, two hours, one retry.
- Random weigh-in: morning of competition.
- Tolerance: 5% above the category.
- Missing it: disqualification.
The glossary has the weight categories (para taekwondo), the general and random weigh-in, the contestant eligibility (para taekwondo), the competition systems (para taekwondo), the team standing and the Extraordinary Sanctions Committee.
Tricky cases
How many are picked for the random weigh-in?
From none to 20%, by category size.
An athlete misses the general weigh-in once. Out?
They get one more try within the time.
Can a heavyweight weigh too little?
Yes. 80.0 kg is not over 80 kg.
Withdrawing after the weigh-in?
It may be investigated for bad faith.
Why the rule exists
Weight classes keep size fair. The random check stops large weight gains between weigh-in and fighting.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| General | Day before | 10 |
| Random | Morning, 5% | 10 |
| Fewer than four | No random check | 10 |
From the rule book
World Taekwondo, Para Taekwondo Competition Rules (23 October 2025), articles 5.1, 6, 10 and 24. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: WT Para Taekwondo Competition Rules.