How are pencak silat fighters grouped?
I · Intermediate · The match · 1 of 7Pesilat compete in age groups by year of birth, from Singa (3 to 6) to Master B (61 and over); seniors are 17 to 45. Tanding is also split into weight categories, lettered from A with open classes at the top. The weigh-in has no tolerance, and a pesilat who misses the weight is disqualified. Every pesilat needs a health certificate.
How it works
- Age groups: Singa, Macan, pre-teen, pre-junior, junior, senior, Master A, Master B.
- Proof of age: identity card or passport.
- Senior men: under 45 kg, A (45 to 50 kg) to J (90 to 95 kg), then two open classes.
- Youngest groups: paired within 1 year, 3 cm and 2 kg; masters within 5 kg.
- Weigh-in dress: dry uniform, no belt, groin guard or joint guards.
- Tolerance: none.
- Witnesses: both team officials.
- Health: a valid certificate; women juniors and seniors also declare they are not pregnant.
The glossary has the age categories, the weight categories, the matching by guideline, the weigh-in, the medical certificate and the citizenship.
Tricky cases
A pesilat is 100 g over. Is there a second chance?
The rules allow no tolerance; failing the weight means disqualification.
Can a pesilat weigh without clothes?
Yes, behind a towel or cloth, in a room for their own sex.
One team official refuses to sign the weigh-in form. Does the result stand?
Yes. It stays valid.
How often is the weigh-in held?
The main text says on the morning of each competition day; a revision note says only on the first day and at the semi-finals.
Why the rule exists
Weight decides much of a fight, so strict classes keep bouts even. Health checks protect pesilat in a full-contact sport.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-sport games | Pesilat must be a citizen | Art 2.2a |
| Single-sport events | Any country, with federation letter | Art 2.2b |
| Weigh-in timing | Two versions in the text | Art 1.3c; Rev T12 |
From the rule book
IPSF-PERSILAT, International Pencak Silat Competition Regulations Year 2026, Articles 1.3, 1.5 and 2.1 to 2.3, and revision notes 12 and 18. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the PERSILAT competition regulations, 2026 revision.