SELECT THE RIGHT TAEKWONDO UNIFORM FOR YOUR PROTECTION

Taekwondo is a form of martial arts combining Korean form of fighting as well as Chinese techniques of combat. It comprises mainly of kicks and the techniques to block them and counter attack opponents. Due to the force involved in the form of combat, it is essential that the chosen uniform provides sufficient protection to prevent any serious physical damage during training and competitions.

The uniforms are designed according to the nuances of the combat sport. They are structured and cut in a way that helps you put up a fight without inhibitions from your garb. Since proper outfit is an important constituent of taekwondo and all other martial arts, it is crucial that you select a taekwondo uniform which suits you best in terms of comfort, protection and ease of movement. Here are certain tips that will help you select the perfect taekwondo suit:

Choosing the Perfect Fit:

Taekwondo like Karate uses a uniform code consisting of a shirt, pants and belt. Taekwondo requires an outfit that allows flexibility and a great deal of mobility of the legs since it involves kicks as the method of attack. You need to find a uniform that is loose fitting but not extremely loose or oversize that will result in tripping over. Also, very tight ones can constrict your moves and techniques. So, you need to find one that is comfortably loose yet perfectly fitting your shape and build.

As for deciding whether to go for pants with drawstrings at the waist or elastic ones, it is entirely based on your comfort level. However, for the beginners it is advisable that they choose elastic ones that will allow them a great deal of freedom during the learning phase. While the pants with drawstrings are more secure, they are difficult to breathe as they apply a lot of pressure on the stomach.

Finding the Right Material:

Both light and heavy weight materials are used in taekwondo suits. Dacron and nylon uniforms are used mostly by beginners, since they are lightweight fabrics. They allow you more flexibility during the learning period and do not add to your own weight. This prevents badly angled moves or restricted kicks that could cause physical damage. On the other hand cotton is the best choice for experienced fighters who are participating in tournaments and require the right amount of snap in their outfit. Cotton is durable to heavy wear and tear as well as throws, kicks and force.

Select the Right Sparring Gear:

When you are at a stage in taekwondo where you have acquired skills to start sparring, it is essential that you include the protective gear as a part of your outfit for prevention of injuries. The required gear includesmouth guard, chest protector and shin and foot protector. Make sure that the chest protector is of the right size and fits you perfectly. If it is loose, it will start shifting and cause disruption in your moves. Also ensure that it not too small to leave the abdomen open to hard kicks.

Although there are a variety of taekwondo uniforms available in the market it is wise to select one with thorough research and guidance from your instructor.

THE BENEFITS OF USING KARATE BELTS

Legend has it that the belts used in the karate uniform are the imprint of years of knowledge and experience embedded as dirt, blood and stains in the unwashed belt which ultimately made the white belt, black in colour in due course. However, this is a popular myth of which there is no evidence. But still one can say that the standardisation of ranks is loosely based on this story.

While karate is an age combat practice technique, the use of belts to denote ranks was an idea implemented around the turn of 20^th century.  The standard belt colour system prevalent in modern times is typically, though not exclusively: white, yellow, gold, orange, green, blue, purple, brown, red and black belts each signifying the level of a karate practitioner in the increasing order. Each colour chosen for the belt indicates certain important aspects of the Karate Combat Process and implies hidden meaning. This simple and effective ranking system helps identify the beginners, champions as well as amateurs in this field. Some of the interesting benefits of this seemingly insignificant accessory are:

                         

Colour Coded Ranking System:

The colour white represents the blank sheet on which the knowledge of the art can be printed. A white belt is always for the novice in this field who is like a seed implanted in the beginning of a cycle of learning. On the other hand yellow and orange belts are used for amateurs who have learned new techniques and their uses and thus progressing. The colour green is awarded once the karate learner has learned to refine and hone his skills with his individuality for perfect resolution. The black belt is the most prestigious achievement for a karate champion. It is for people in this field who have every knowledge and skill in this combat and set out to gain profound knowledge, discover new techniques and teach beginners.

Providing Milestones to Achievers:

The use of colour coded belts to represent the ranks has brought a sense of achievement in young fighters. The zeal and aim to achieve a particular level and be the owner of a high ranking belt has filled champions with enthusiasm to reach excellence in this field. It is the most simple and refined way to encourage candidates and drive them towards success.

Useful Uniform Accessory:

Apart from the simple yet efficient ranking methodology, belts prove to be a useful accessory as a part of the uniform. Since Karate Suits tend to be loose in fitting allowing more mobility owing to the requirements of the sport, belts are used to tie the jacket tightly to the waist and help it remain tucked. This helps the flexibility of movements and also prevents inhibitions caused by a flailing jacket.

So use your strength and skills to maximum and get your desired Karate belt!

Things to know before choosing a Taekwondo uniform (Dobok)

Taekwondo is undoubtedly a popular Korean Martial Arts developed between the 40s and 50s after the Japanese domination of Korea.

It would not be wrong to suggest that this art of Taekwondo incorporated the Okinawa martial arts since the pioneers of Taekwondo in Korea drew their skills from Okinawa and some from China during the Korean Occupation by Japan. 

With the art involving speed in jumping and spinning kicks, a high-quality taekwondo suit is necessary to accommodate these moves without wearing out easily. Various manufacturers throughout the world have come up with numerous designs of Taekwondo uniform, thus making it confusing to pick or recommend the ideal traditional Taekwondo uniform. 

We outline factors one should keep in mind while choosing Taekwondo uniforms:

Colour:

Most schools will recommend plain white Dobok for beginner Taekwondo practitioners. However, uniforms with a black collar are available though often this may be reserved strictly for Black Belt students only, and unless you attain that rank then it is forbidden to wear this Dobok (unless your particular school allows this).

Design:

You may choose to have a traditional v-neck uniform of either colour as long as it never conflicts with your rank. 

Crossover Dobok is also available depending on what your school endorses or your personal taste for the designs. 

Size:

Quite often, students will purchase an oversize Dobok (especially parents of growing children!). With floating legs, one is risking stepping on the oversize material and tripping. Imagine you were battling for a championship, and this happens – not a great idea and potentially unsafe!

Brand:

Different brands manufacture different qualities of Dobok. As much as it is a matter of personal choice to settle for a particular brand, it is always advisable to consult with experienced practitioners together with your school. They may have a specific brand to suggest.

Endorsement from Taekwondo governing bodies:

It is imperative to purchase a uniform that is accepted by the two bodies governing Taekwondo worldwide; International Taekwondo-Do Federation (ITF) and World Taekwondo Do Federation (WTF) – ensure you purchase the correct one for your club!

These two bodies have approved a white V-neck Dobok and practitioners with a black belt putting on a black colored V-neck uniform. 

Fabric used to make the Dobok:

Polyester is favored in making Taekwondo uniforms as the fabric does not exhibit a lot of wrinkling after washing and is remarkably forgiving when one forgets to hang their attire after practice!

Tips on maintaining your TaeKwondo uniform-Dobok

TaeKwondo is a self-defence technique and a combat sport developed in the regions of Korea that borrows a lot from the Japanese and Chinese martial arts. Unlike Judo, TaeKwondo does not involve a lot of gripping; therefore, its practitioners can wear a baggier outfit. This outfit also provides for flexible movements by the practitioner.The attire is also light as there is not much risk of it being torn during struggles.

Well, in choosing a TaeKwondo uniform (called a dobok) from WKC Martial Arts Supplies, one has to be careful to ensure you get a comfortable outfit that is accommodating to allow efficient body movements without straining.

There are two designs for TaeKwondo uniform;

·         The cross over uniform that forms a v-neck on wearing

·         V-neck TaeKwondo uniform

TaeKwondo uniforms are made of poly/cotton - a perfect fabric combination that prevents wrinkling.

Taking care of your dobok:

·     Ensure that your dobok’s pants are at the ankle and do not touch the ground to avoid tripping over. This also prevents you from stepping on it which may trigger the uniform to wear out.

·     Wash your dobok more often after practicing the art, it is recommended to wash it with cold water on the first days when it is still new and subsequent washing can be done with warm water not exceeding 40 degrees.

·      Despite the fact that poly/cotton fabric prevents your dobok from wrinkling; it is advisable that you iron your dobok to avoid looking clumsy in the class. You have to consider the location of the creases in your dobok and iron along them. It is also good to iron over the lettering on your dobok to look fine and display the craftsmanship used in the embroidery. It is NOT necessary to wash your belt.

·        It is important that after your arrival from practicing to remove your dobok from the bag and after the whole process of washing and ironing; you fold your dobok and keep them safe and tidy until the next practice session. It is always good to appear smart in class; it boosts your confidence and enhances your concentration too.

In conclusion

Effective washing and ironing of your TaeKwondo uniform will guarantee durability of the attire besides ensuring that you are neat during classes.

Enjoy practicing in your perfect Judo suit

Judo is the genesis of the Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and samba. Its major aim is to immobilise your opponent by taking him/her to the ground. It is a Modern martial art and an Olympic sport besides being a combat system.

This art entails a lot gripping from the opponent and therefore emphasis on the necessity of strong uniform is important. Besides the ability of the Judo suits to with standing intense gripping, it should also provide comfort to you.

Choosing the suitable Judo suit from WKC Martial Arts Supplies to wear during training sessions has to be made in regard to the various elements such as; sizes, colour and weight. We briefly discuss these elements to familiarize you with the suits. Judo suits offered for sale are made from two fabrics;

·         Canvas

·         Pure cotton

These two fabrics have a significant effect on the shrinking capacity of the suit with Canvas shrinking the most.

Judo suits for sale have two components just as the Karate suits; the Jacket and draw string pants.

Sizes:

Various sizes are available for adult judokas and children. In regard to sizes, you have to consider your height, body build and shrinkage following that the uniform shrinks to a certain capacity when washed. It is important that you choose your sizes carefully to ensure you are comfortable during the exercise. 

Colour:

Traditionally, white was the widely endorsed colour with both competitors in the sport required to appear in white gi. However, that trend has changed and today in Judo competition one opponent wears white, while the other wears blue to distinguish the competitors. Nevertheless, black is gaining fame in most judo schools, though it is not an official Judo gi. It is important to note that differently coloured Judo suits do NOT indicate rank.

Weight:

Depending on the amount of fabric used to sew the gi, weight gets determined. A heavy gi is much more durable compared to a light gi. Seasoned practitioners will go for heavy gi since they feel comfortable and in equal measure have their seniority defined.

Judo strap belt:

Judo strap belt always accompanies the judo suit. The belt is always white but that does not mean that other colours are not available. Belts can also be dyed into specific desirable colours but this should be specified in the school. Remember that colored belts indicate practitioners rank.

In conclusion:

Comfort during practice, flexibility and durability are the core benefits of Judo suits a practitioner reaps from making an informed choice.

Things to know before choosing jiu jitsu suits for women

Originated in Japan and with derivations from Brazill (BJJ), jiu jitsuas a form of martial art is a combat sport and a self-defence system which highlights on grappling and more specifically ground fighting. As a system of self-defence it is something that can help women to assure their safety. Jiu jitsu promotes the concept that even a small and a weak person can combat a bigger assailant through impressive joint locks and chokeholds. 

 However, is the technical knowledge alone sufficient? Well there is no doubt that good quality jiu jitsu suits for women of WKC Martial Arts Supplies would assist the techniques and training to becoming the best. Here’s an account of things to know before choosing jiu jitsu suits for women.

The most important attribute of the Brazilian jiu jitsu suit is the weave. The weave says it all as to how much material has been used and how has the suit been stitched. The weave further determines three very important determinant factors in choosing the best jiu jitsu suits for women.

Weight:

The weight of the jiu jitsu suits play an important part in your training as the more comfortable and light you feel the more flexible you are. The lighter jiu jitsu suits are a great bet especially in the hot weather. They would also render great help if you are approaching the weight limit of your division. Wearing a light suit would enable speed so you grab your opponent briskly and once grabbed you can quickly try a transfer to a joint lock or a chokehold before your opponent could escape or block.

Thickness:

You certainly don’t want to be grabbed by your opponent and then endure a lock. The thicker jiu jitsu suits would help you from being grabbed. Your opponent would find it tough to grab you and hold you with a tight grip if you are wearing a thicker suit while training in the Brazilian jiu jitsu form of martial arts. Thus, thickness plays a vital role in your choice of jiu jitsu suits for women. 

Durability:

There would be times when you would be ruthlessly grabbed by your opponent and then be put to ground and then the locks would follow. You would certainly want your jiu jitsu suit to endure all the action. Durability of your jiu jitsu suit is very important hence while choosing one you should always be certain about their durability and must only choose the best jiu jitsu suits especially for training purposes where you would have to use them many a times during a week. So choose the most durable jiu jitsu suits for women.