Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and the national sport of South Korea. In Korean, tae (“foot”), kwon (“fist”), and do (“way”) together make up “Taekwondo”. Taekwondo is characterized by its emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques.
Taekwondo Gear List
Here is a list of the gear you will need to participate in Taekwondo. If your just starting out then start with the basics and work your way up as you get more experience.
Taekwondo Uniform and Belt
The dobok is the uniform practitioners of Korean martial arts wear. Dobok means “the way of clothing.” The dobok is related to the Japanese keikogi/dōgi, which is worn by practitioners of Japanese martial arts. The dobok comes in many colors, though white and black are the most common.
The belt you wear with your dobok indicates your rank in Taekwondo. There are typically eight ranks in Taekwondo, and as you advance through the ranks, you will earn higher-level belts.
Shoes
Taekwondo shoes are often used for sparring and training purposes, especially when you’re practicing on hard surfaces rather than mats. They provide better traction and support than regular sneakers, and they also offer some protection for your feet and ankles. They typically don’t have shoelaces.
Mats
The main material used in Taekwondo mats is closed-cell EVA foam rubber. This material is made of ethylene and vinyl acetate. This combination makes a polymer that is soft but also durable. This material is perfect for high-impact workouts and sports because it has a lot of cushioning. This helps to create a safe surface for martial arts practice.
Mouth Guard
Mouthguards are an essential piece of gear for Taekwondo fighters. You should always wear a mouthguard during fights and sparring to protect yourself from injuries to your mouth and to keep your jaw bone in place. It is very important not to be negligent when it comes to a combat sport like Taekwondo. There are three types of mouthguards: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made.
- Best Overall: Impact Custom Pro
- Runner up: Venum Challenger
- Best Budget: NXT NXTRND Rush
Sparring Gear
In taekwondo, sparring is called kyorugi by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF). In this federation, the majority of attacks are done with kicks. The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) encourages the use of both hands and feet.
Head Gear
The typical Taekwondo headgear is made from vinyl or dipped foam and fastened by a chin strap. It may contain vents designed for better ventilation and hearing. Face cages may also be attached to offer additional protection to the face.
Chest Protector
Hogu is the armor worn by practitioners of Taekwondo and Geomdo during sparring and competition. It helps protect their chest from being hit.
Shin Guard
In order to protect your shins during competition, the World Taekwondo Federation has approved some shin guards. These shin guards are made from dense foam that will disperse the impact if you get hit.
Forearm Guards
Taekwondo uses your forearms to defend against kicks and punches. Forearm protection helps to lessen the impact of such blows.
Foot Protector
Foot Protectors can protect you when you are training or competing. They are easy to use and comfortable to wear.
Sparring Glove
Sparring gloves are typically lighter than competition gloves, and they have less padding. This is because in sparring, you are only allowed to hit your opponent with certain areas of your hand, so there is less need for padding.
- Best Overall: RDX MMA Gloves
- Runner-Up: Venum Undisputed 2.0
- Budget Pick: Sanabul MMA Sparring Gloves
Targets and Focus Pads
Focus mitts and focus pads are often used as a way to improve your striking skills. When you use focus pads, you focus more on the person striking than the person getting attacked. This can help you learn good combinations and defensive moves. They’re good to practice both low and high kicks.
Shields
Kicking shields are padded tools that martial artists use to practice their kicks.
Groin Protector
The groin protector helps to absorb and disperse impact, so you don’t get injured. It has an elastic waistband with support straps that make it comfortable to wear without limiting your motion.
Breaking Boards
Board breaking is a way to show how strong you are. You hit the board with your hand, foot, elbow (or any other striking surface on your body). People do this in Karate to show how strong they are. The most common thing people break is a piece of wood or brick. But it is also common to break cinder blocks, glass, or metal. Glass can be dangerous when it breaks, so you usually don’t want to break it.
Jump Ropes
Jumping rope is a great way to build up your stamina for martial arts. Jumping rope also helps with your agility and makes you lighter on your feet. … All stretches and exercises should be supervised by a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to make sure you are using the proper technique.
Leg Stretchers
Stretching your legs makes them more flexible. This is important for doing high kicks. If you stretch properly, you will increase your flexibility by lengthening the muscle fibers in a slow and controlled way.
Weapons
The main weapons used in Taekwondo are the sword (gum), staff (janggun), and knife (nunchaku). See below for a more detailed list:
Jahng Bong aka Bo Staff, Bahng Mahng Ee aka Eskrima Sticks, Dan Bong aka Short Stick, Sahm Dan Bong (삼단봉) aka 3-Section Staff, Jee Pahng Ee aka Combat Cane, Ssang Jeol Gon aka Nunchuku, Sai, Jitte, Sahang Naht aka Kama, Spear, Gumdo Swords, Dan Gum aka Dagger, Gungdo aka Bow, Bayonet
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to learn Taekwondo?
It takes an average of 3-5 years to achieve a black belt in Taekwondo. However, this varies depending on the individual and their commitment to training.
Is Taekwondo dangerous?
No, Taekwondo is not dangerous. In fact, it can be a very beneficial form of exercise that can help improve your overall health and fitness. However, as with any physical activity, there is always a risk of injury.
What are the benefits of Taekwondo?
Some of the benefits of Taekwondo include improved fitness, coordination, and balance; increased strength and flexibility; improved concentration and focus; and increased self-confidence. Additionally, Taekwondo can be a great way to meet new people and make friends.
What do I need to wear to Taekwondo class?
For most classes, you will need a white uniform (called a dobok) and a belt. Some schools may also require that you purchase additional equipment, such as sparring gear or a mouthguard.
How often should I train?
Most Taekwondo schools have classes 3-5 times per week. However, some students may choose to train more or less often depending on their schedule and goals. It is important to consult with your instructor to find a training schedule that works best for you.
What is the difference between Taekwondo and other martial arts?
Taekwondo is unique in its focus on kicks and striking, as well as its Olympic status. Additionally, Taekwondo practitioners are required to abide by a strict code of ethics, which sets it apart from some other martial arts.
Final Thoughts
Taekwondo is a great way to improve your fitness, flexibility, and strength, as well as your coordination and focus. It is also a great way to meet new people and make friends. However, as with any physical activity, there is always a risk of injury. Be sure to consult with your instructor to find a training schedule that works best for you.
