Mom sends son to judo practice wearing golf pants
Well, that’s a bit of a stretch.
But it is difficult to understand the specialized martial arts clothing used for judo, taekwondo, karate and mixed martial arts (MMA). Even more difficult is determining just how much someone new to the discipline of martial arts needs to invest in, and how much is better to add as skill and interest grows.
Martial artists need particular clothing items that are based on not only comfort and function, but also have roots in history. Many of the martial arts, such as judo and karate, have long oriental traditions, and the uniforms worn for study and competition have not changed greatly over time.
In addition to basic clothing items, protective gear, footwear and some newer and trendier items may be selected for practice and competition.
At the most elemental level, pants and a jacket-like tunic are worn. These will vary slightly in color and design (depending on the particular martial art), but emphasize free-movement of the body for turning, kicking, jumping and other full-body actions. The tunics are generally made of cotton or cotton-blend, but some martial arts use shinier and more silken fabrics.
Belts are more than just a way to keep the tunic tied closed. In most martial arts, beginners wear a plain white belt. As they advance in skill and experience, they are tested at various levels. If they succeed during their testing period, they move up a level, and with this comes a new belt color and the symbolic respect that it demands.
The colored belts are meaningful, and represent hours of training and fine-tuning of skills. Students compete in their own training schools, as well as on the local, state, national and international arenas.
In some cases, such as in mixed martial arts (MMA), boxing-type shorts and a rash guard are worn, instead of more traditional tunic and pants.
Footwear, such as light slippers and thin-soled athletic shoes, are worn in some martial arts. For the most part, bare feet are the norm.
Protective equipment is another important part of the initial investment for martial artists. Some schools and training academies will provide these for their students. However, as a student progresses and increases home practice, various pieces of sparring equipment and head protectors may be purchased.
Novices should get a basic clothing and equipment list from their instructors. Buy what you need, as you need it. Buy durable and well-constructed martial arts clothing that can stand up to the high action and movement of these specialized sports.
