The prerequisite to playing, watching or constructing a decent kabaddi ground is to understand the dimensions of the kabaddi court. Being a student, coach, school administrator, or a sports enthusiast, the knowledge of the kabaddi court size and layout will allow you to enjoy the game. This is a comprehensive guide where we tell you the dimensions of Kabaddi Court, court markings, areas and requirements in a simple, easy to understand manner as a student.
Kabaddi: This is a game of speed, power and tact but all that at a well-defined kabaddi court. We will divide it step by step to make it easily visualized by even a 10th grade student.
What Is a Kabaddi Court?
A kabaddi court is a rectangular field of play where two teams play whereby the raiders in one team are sent into the half of the opponent. The markings and the size of the kabaddi court are standardized so that there is fair play at school, national and international levels.
This is because the court is split into two equal halves by a center line. There are certain areas in each half such as the baulk line, bonus line and the lobby area. Each of the court lines has its purpose and a direct impact on the way the game is played.
Dimensions of a standard Kabaddi Court (Men and Women)
. Men Kabaddi Courts Dimensions
The official court size of kabaddi (men) is bigger to accommodate the intensity of the game. These are measurements that are followed in professional and international matches.
| Feature | Measurement |
| Length | 13 meters |
| Width | 10 meters |
| Area | 130 sq. meters |
| Court Shape | Rectangle |
It is these dimensions that are accepted by the governing bodies such as the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) and the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF).
. Women Kabaddi Court Sizes
Female kabaddi court is a little smaller, gives greater freedom of movement and balance of the ball in play. The structure and rules are, however, the same.
| Feature | Measurement |
| Length | 12 meters |
| Width | 8 meters |
| Area | 96 sq. meters |
| Court Shape | Rectangle |
The kabaddi courts of women are usually played in the school, college and professional competitions.
. Dimensions of Kabaddi Courts of a junior and sub-junior level
Reasons behind Change of court size among young players
Players who are younger require a court that is as strong as they are. That is the reason why the size of kabaddi court is lowered in junior and sub-junior level.
| Category | Length | Width |
| Junior Boys/ Girls | 11 meters | 8 meters |
| Sub-Junior | 10 meters | 6 meters |
These dimensions assist players to concentrate on talent instead of physical fatigue.
Critical Lines and Markings of a Kabaddi Court
- Center Line
- The kabaddi court is divided into two by a center line. Every team protects one half and attacks the other in a raid.
- This is a very important line since the raiders have to pass it in order to be in the field of the opponent. The rules of touching or crossing are strictly followed during raids.
- Baulk Line
Baulk line is also one of the most significant markings of the dimensions of a kabaddi court. The raid can only be legitimate when the raider crosses this line.
- Distance from center line:
- Men: 3.75 meters
- Women: 3 meters
The raid is legal on crossing the baulk line and points can be scored.
- Bonus Line
Raiders have an opportunity to earn additional points in the bonus line. It is parallel with the baulk line.
- Distance from baulk line:
- Men: 1 meter
- Women: 1 meter
By touching this line with one foot and leaving the other one in the air, a raider is allowed to earn a bonus point.
- Lobby Area
- The lobby is the strip of both sides of the court. It is an active part only after contact between players.
- Prior to contact, stepping into the lobby means that the raider is out. When contacted, the lobby becomes an element of the playing area.
Kabaddi Court Zones Explanations in a Simple Way
Playing Area
- The action mostly occurs on the playing field. It involves both sides, not counting the lobby.
- Players will have to remain vigilant since going out of the field will result in instant elimination.
End Lines and Side Lines
- The kabaddi court has end lines that represent the shorter sides of the court and side lines which represent the longer sides.
- Touching on an opponent without hitting or pushing them offside would be considered out of bounds. These lines assist referees to make decisive decisions.
Density and Pigmentation of Court lines
Standard Line Markings
Every line of kabaddi court must be visible and marked in a perfect way.
- Line thickness: 5 cm
- Color: White or yellow (depending on surface)
Fair refereeing and easy playing attain good visibility.
Kabaddi Court Surface Types
Common Playing Surfaces
Kabaddi may be played on different surfaces depending on the level of the competition.
- Mud courts (kabaddi, the traditional one).
- Artificial mats (Pro Kabaddi League).
- Flooring (indoor): wooden or PVC.
Contemporary tournaments are using synthetic surfaces because they are safer and predictable.
Size of Indoor and Outdoor Kabaddi Courts
Are Dimensions Different?
- Kabaddi court size field is equal in both indoor and outdoor games. The distinction is on the surface and the environment.
- The lighting and weather protection are better in indoor courts. The outdoor courts are usually found in the school and in the local tournaments.
Developments of Kabaddi Court According to the Official Rules
The size of the official kabaddi court is governed by the established organizations. These organizations create uniformity in the competitions.
- India, Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI).
- Kabaddi International Federation (IKF).
Rules may be reviewed on the AKFI site or global regulations on the IKF site.
Usually, Confusion When Marking a Kabaddi Court
Errors to Avoid
There are numerous schools and local grounds that commit minor errors that influence the gameplay.
- Improper distance between baulk and bonus lines
- Uneven court shape
- Line markings which are faded or blurred
These problems can be avoided by using valid measurement devices and standard patterns.
The importance or reasons of dimensions of Kabaddi Courts
- Proper size of kabaddi courts provides fair play, safety of players and refereeing. The errors in measurements even small ones can alter the game way of playing.
- A court with properly marked positions will assist in speeding up the process of learning rules on the part of students, and beginners. To the professionals, it is consistent among tournaments.
Kabaddi Court Specifications: Brief Overview
At a Glance
- Men: 13m x 10m
- Women: 12m x 8m
- Junior: 11m x 8m
- Sub-Junior: 10m x 6m
- Line thickness: 5 cm
These basics form a very good basis on how to learn kabaddi.
FAQ’s
Q1. Does that differ in kabaddi court size between women?
Ans. The size of the kabaddi court is smaller among women. It is 12 meters long by 8 meters in height hence facilitating improved movement and balance during play.
Q2. Is there a surface where kabaddi is to be played?
Ans. Kabaddi can be played on mud or synthetic mat or indoor floor. Nevertheless, professional tournaments favour artificial surfaces to be used due to the safety and uniformity.
Q3. Do the dimensions of the kabaddi court vary all over the world?
Ans. Yes, there are accepted international standards of the size of an official kabaddi court through governing organization such as AKFI and IKF so that the game can be played uniformly all over.
Q4. How much area will it take to construct a kabaddi court?
Ans. The size of the court alone and an addition of safety space is required. In case of a men court this will typically be approximately 15m x 12m total area.
Conclusion
Knowledge on the Kabaddi Court Dimensions is vital to play the game in the correct manner and construct an adequate kabaddi court. The larger the kabaddi court and markings are related to the official standards, the safer, fairer and more enjoyable will be the game to all involved. The right court dimensions, be they in schools, academies, or professional matches are able to allow players to concentrate on skill, strategy, and team work.
