Hailing from Korea, Tae kwon do is a martial art which is known worldwide. Literally meaning “the way of hitting with fists and feet”. Tae Kwon do literally means “the art of unarmed combat”.
The four main disciplines of this sport are sparring, self defense, break test and patterns. For any person who wants to progress to a higher belt grade, he/she must exhibit competence in all four disciplines.
One of the best things about Tae Kwon do is that it can be done by people of any age. This martial art can be learned by a young child as well as an adult. Many people find that they can greatly improve their flexibility as well as sharpen their minds using this sport and children as young as five can also benefit from the teachings of this martial art. It also kept my mind sharp when I had to memorize all the various patterns.
However, there is some basic Tae kwon do equipment which you’ll need to get started in the sport. The first thing you will want to get your hands on is a dobok; this is a Tae kwon do uniform, typically a plain white one. Make sure to keep your dobok clean and pressed, since this is the usual custom among people who practice this martial art. When you first begin this sport, most schools prefer that you wear a plain white uniform.
You will also have to pick up a chest protector for practice; and for use in competitions, you’ll also need a chest protector which includes shoulder padding. Make sure to use ties instead of velcro so you will be able to adjust your chest protector so that you get a perfect fit.
Shin guards are something else you should add to your list of Tae kwon do equipment. Make sure that the guards aren’t too long, since this will make it difficult to bend your knees and ankles You’ll also want to pick up a set of arm protectors If you are blocking a kick, the arm guards are going to help you to protect the bone that runs down your forearm on the outside. If you want to protect your entire forearm, you are going to have to see to it that your arm protectors fit really well.
Since head kicks are a common feature of Tae kwon do sparring, you’ll need to have a head protector as part of your tae kwon do equipment. It is best in this case to choose white. Make sure that your head protector has a quality, shock absorbing design.
If you are going to be sparring, the groin guard is an essential part of your Tae Kwon do equipment. You must step into your groin guard in order to put it on. The elastic first goes around your waist and then around the back of your legs. If you plan to spar in Tae Kwon do tournaments, your groin guard must be worn underneath your dobok.
The above are the things you’ll want to have before you get started practicing Tae kwon do, but if you decide you’d like to start participating in competitions, However, I would not go overboard on the price until you see if you like it.
Tags:
arm guards,
chest protector,
dobok,
shin guards,
tae kwon do equipment