A typical type of martial arts equipment is the uniform. Usually consisting of three pieces- Jacket or shirt, pants or shorts and a type of belt, sometimes a sash. Traditional disciplines tend to use a type of jacket that opens in the front, some type of bottoms and a belt. Let’s take a look at one of the most common uniforms, the Karate Uniform. Karate students and masters wear a light, medium or heavy weight white cotton suit. A club badge is usually worn on the left side of the jacket. White trousers with a drawstring waist are worn as well. Practitioners are expected to be clean and tidy at all times to show respect for their school and the art.
The jacket/top uniform seems to be the most common type. However, different disciplines will use many different types of uniforms. Everything from Tank Tops, Short or long sleeved shirts, shorts and sashes can be seen. Some disciplines use a sturdier uniform due to the type of training. Due to the amount of throwing and grabbing, a Judoka - judo Practioner will wear a heavy cotton gi - Judogi. This type of gi will hold up to the strenuous pressure that is put upon it during training and competition. Because some arts employ huge arrays of throws and chokes in their arsenal, a light uniform would be torn to shreds in almost no time. Usually a single or even a double weave uniform is worn to withstand the harsh usage that it will undergo.
Failing to use the proper martial arts supplies, can cause problems to practicing whatever martial art you select. In general martial arts use a type of suit that is non restrictive and allows the practitioner to move freely. This is quite important as it lets the student to practice without being encumbered. Training can be very intense. Unsuitable uniforms are a detriment to the mastery of required forms that are foundational to the Discipline.
