Taekwondo is one of the most commonly practiced types of martial arts in the world today. Developed originally in Korea, this is a type of martial arts that focuses greatly on kicking. It was created back in the 1940s and attained popularity in the 1950s when Taekwondo was practiced in many schools and gyms. Today, taekwondo is practiced across the globe, with many different iterations and fighting styles. However, taekwondo requires a lot of flexibility in order to kick and grapple, which is why a very flexible uniform is required. Most Korean martial artists wear a dobok and a loose trouser.
If you are interested in buying traditional taekwondo uniforms, you will first have to decide what you want. The dobok is like a traditional v-neck jacket and is created after the design of the hanbok. Even though it is most commonly available in white, some practitioners also wear black doboks. Apart from the dobok and the trouser, you will also need the rank belt. As you progress through the ranks and win bigger fights, you will earn belts. The black belt is the highest rank you can achieve. Apart from the rank belt, the dobok, and the trouser, here are a few additional items that you will need:
Chest Guards
In order to protect yourself from the kicks, you should seriously consider buying chest guards to wear under the uniform. Taekwondo uniforms are generally quite loose, so you will have plenty of space to wear the chest guard. Chest guards protect your ribs and your chest from strong kicks that might leave you rattled. The reversible chest guard can protect your front and back from strong kicks.
Kicking Shoes
Because Taekwondo is so focused on kicking, you will need robust kicking shoes in order to protect your feet. Standard kicking shoes have a thin profile with a low sole in order to plant your feet firmly on the ground. Kicking shoes are not like ordinary shoes. They are extremely lightweight and have a soft front in order to minimize the damage on the front. This not only protects your toes, but it also reduces the damage to the other person.
Mouth Guard
A kick to the mouth can leave you with a few broken teeth. Mouth guards are an essential part of Taekwondo uniforms because they protect your feet from severe damage. Before any match begins, the referee will check to ensure that both competitors are wearing mouth guards and chest guards. There are many online shops that sell taekwondo gear and uniforms. When placing an order for taekwondo gear or uniforms, make sure you confirm the size.
Most companies also offer replacement sizes too.
Buying Weightlifting Shoes for Men- Things to Look Out For
Many bodybuilders often feel immense pain in their feet. If you are into weight lifting, you should know that the shoes you wear while lifting heavy weights can have a major impact on your performance. When you lift weights, you need to make sure that your feet are situated firmly on the ground.
This will help you gain greater grip while lifting, and will reduce the chances of slipping. You need to feel the floor if you want maximum power and balance. That’s why standard shoes are not such a good choice for weight lifters. Ordinary running shoes have wide soles in order to cushion your feet from impact. Many of them also have gel in between that protects your feet. When looking for weightlifting shoes for men, here are a few things that you should look out for:
A Thin Sole
The most important thing that you need to look out for is a thin sole. Weightlifting shoes are supposed to have a very thin profile so that you can feel the ground beneath your feet. When searching for weightlifting shoes, always pay close attention to the sole. Try to buy your weightlifting shoes from a manufacturer, who specializes in making equipment from body builders, taekwondo, and other activities.
Flexibility
As you lift heavy weights, your feet will expand in order to give you maximum grip on the ground. Buying shoes that are tight on the feet is not such a good idea. Flexibility is one of the most important things that you need to look out for when buying shoes. When you try on a new pair of shoes, try to walk in it or lift a heavy weight. If you feel that the shoe is too tight from the sides, don’t buy it. Most weightlifting shoes for men are designed to be highly flexible, and provide proper cushioning from the sides.
Build Quality
You don’t want to buy new weight lifting shoes after every few months. Build quality plays a major role when buying shoes. If you are ordering your weightlifting shoes online, always buy from a company that has been in the business for a long time. There are plenty of companies that manufacture shoes solely for weightlifters, bodybuilders, and martial artists. If you are in the market for new shoes, it is wise to read a few reviews about the model before you buy. If you feel that the shoe is too tight or aren’t satisfied with the quality of the shoe, it is generally advised that you ask for a different model. You will usually get a warranty on a new purchase too.