A beginners guide - what do you need to start martial arts training?
You’ve completed your trial classes at a local martial arts school, which you enjoyed. You liked the instructors and the people there, so you signed up as a new member. Now, you are asking yourself what equipment you need to buy to get started on your martial arts journey.
The Uniform
The most essential item for a beginner is the uniform. Most martial arts styles use the traditional pants and jacket set known as a ‘gi’ in the Japanese Martial Arts and as a ‘dobok’ in the Korean Martial Arts. Other styles may use training shorts/pants and a t-shirt. Each martial arts style has different uniforms designed to suit their movements and techniques.
Many martial arts schools will give out a “free” uniform as part of a “paid trial” (more common in Australia, but uncommon in New Zealand), which solves this problem in the short term. If they don’t, your instructor should be able to tell you what is required in terms of style, colour, and fabric weight.
While you may be enthusiastic about starting martial arts, the initial excitement may wane, and you decide to stop training after a while. This is why buying a basic lower-cost uniform is often common sense when you start training. Once you choose martial arts as something you want to do long term, you can look at a better-quality uniform or even a tailor-made one.
The Belt
The belt holds your uniform together and signifies progress through your style’s syllabus. When you join, your uniform often includes a white belt as part of the set. But if not, you will have to obtain one separately. It is important to check with your instructor if there are any specific requirements for the belt, e.g. width and how your style ties their belts, so you order the correct belt.
Mouth Guard
If your style practices sparring, a mouth guard is an essential piece of equipment that helps prevent dental injuries. There is some evidence that they can also reduce concussion risk. Most mouth guards are relatively cheap, and if they are well fitted, they play an important part in your safety.
Head Guard
A good head guard is also essential safety equipment if your style includes contact sparring. Even if your style does not allow strikes to the head, accidental blows to the head can and do happen. The head guard should cover your head, ears, and cheeks. No head guard, though, will prevent a concussion, and even micro-concussions are very dangerous. So don’t be complacent while wearing one.
Gloves
There is a wide range of gloves available, from boxing gloves of various weights and padded mittens to open-fingered gloves or gloves without some padding on the back of the hands, depending on the style. These gloves provide important protection to the hands during sparring and bag work. Your school may or may not require them. If not, having a pair is still a good idea, especially if you work with your hands.
Body Armour
Body armour is also a necessary safety equipment if you are practising any form of full-contact martial arts. It protects the front and sides of your chest and torso against heavy impacts. Even a cracked rib can take you out of training for a month or more and may also affect your ability to work. When you buy body armour, ensure it fits you comfortably and doesn’t impede your movements.
Arm Guards and Shin Guards
Arm and shin guards help protect your lower limbs during contact drills or sparring. They must fit comfortably so they don’t constrict you or fit loosely, as both can affect your movement.
Water Bottle
Regular hydration is an integral part of training safely and effectively. Many people buy a bottle of water before they come to training, but there is a risk of other people using it accidentally. Having your own water bottle also allows you to add any electrolytes or flavours that you want.
Other Items
You could also look at getting a decent carry bag to store your uniform and other equipment in, especially if your school does not have a dedicated changing room or storage lockers. In your bag, you could also carry a small first aid kit, a towel, and some small pieces of fitness gear, like a skipping rope or grip strengthener, to help you warm up at a tournament if you compete in martial arts tournaments.
In summary
As a beginner, this list may seem daunting, although many schools, especially larger ones, will have some training gear you can use. Also, your style may not require all of the items listed above. Eventually, though, you will want to assemble all the equipment that your style or school requires.
At CMAS, we can provide you with a full range of the above items in many different sizes and options. Please contact us if we can help.
~ Callum
Callum is the manager of Complete Martial Arts Supplies and the owner/head instructor of the Upper Hutt Martial Arts Academy in Upper Hutt, New Zealand. If you are like Callum and have trouble transitioning your school into a business, he and the Martial Arts Professionals can help you transform your school.