martialartsbelts.org

Martial Arts Belts 

While the martial arts training process varies from style and school, most schools employ some color belt scheme. The color of the belt will of course signify the rank the student possesses within your style of martial arts. It’s important to note however, that standardized ranking method exists within the martial arts world and at times even within the same art.

Contrary to popular opinion, the use of colored belts dates back to the 19^th century.  A belt scheme was first used by Jigoro Kano who created the style known as Kodokan Judo out of his Jujitsu.  Jigoro Kano initially began with only white and black belts to signify rank.  His rational for using them, was to indicate which students could compete in different exercises.  White belts of course would not compete in the same exercises with those with black belts. Kano‘s move help spread use the idea of using belts in other martial arts styles. 

Since then the range of colored rank belts has expanded considerably and has been a method measuring and marking a student’s experience.  As noted previously, one challenge with using belts is the fact that each instructor or school may have different requirements despite the fact that they schools may actually teach the same style. The practical downside of this can lie in the confusion, disappointment,  and even tension this can cause in ranks when a student’s current rank is not accepted in a new school.

Martial Arts Books               

While learning martial arts techniques from books is quite difficult, there are some perspectives and techniques that can be derived. One of the most popular series of martial arts books are those written by or derived from Bruce Lee’s teaching. A number of books have been published. Some of them focus on his biography but others feature philosophical and fight techniques and methods.

Bruce Lee’s martial arts books are typically interesting because they reveal the deficiencies and strengths of each martial art. This gives the reader and student the ability to determine what aspects of their art they may need to take into consideration or be weary of.

Martial Arts Store

Martial arts enthusiasts can range from Ju-Jitsu and Hapkido students to more commonly known arts such as Tae Kwon Do and everything in between. Whatever the style, each requires its own set of training equipment, supplies, and uniforms. The best martial arts store will carry a range of supplies, DVDs, and training equipment. As you look for resources, make sure the martial arts store you find has the greatest selection of name brand items. There are plenty of lower costs items available, but as is commonly noted, you get what you pay for.                                

Martial Art Weapons         

The range of martial arts weapons is quite extensive. Popular weapons from Karate based martial art systems include the Bo staff, the Kama, sai, sword, nunchaku, and the tonfa among others. Various Kung Fu styles use broadswords, 3 section staffs, Kwan do, seven or nine link whip chain, as well as various types of staffs.

In days of old, Samurai warriors kept their swords handy by their seats or bedside with a traditional upright stand. Various manufacturers provide Samurai swords in 440 stainless steel Daito and Shoto styles.

Martial Art Supplies

A wide variety of Karate and Tae Kwon Do uniforms, Judo and Ju-Jitsu uniforms, Kung Fu uniforms, as well as sets for Hapkido, Tai Chi,  are currently produced by various manufacturers. Any student knows that in addition to excellent teaching you’ll need a good selection of martial arts supplies.

A common tool for students is kicking shields. One of the best is the full body shield.  It allows you to become a walking punching bag!  Body shields are typically wrap-around pads for safe, high-impact training with mobility. Body shields are typically worn with a strap system which protects the wearer from harm as his or her classmates have at it.

Martial Arts Training Equipment

A wide range of martial arts sparring gear including vinyl and cloth chest protectors, rib guards, mouth guards, and foot protectors are available.  Two of the major manufacturers are Pro-Spar and Adidas Gear. The type of protection is largely dependent on the school and the style of training and the emphasis placed on sparring.

One of the most interesting martial arts training equipment is the time-tested traditional Wooden Dummy which is used by Wing Chun. These solid hardwood dummies are typically handcrafted by authentic artisans in China. They are usually built sturdy North African Spotted Hardwood, selected for Its density and straightness.