| When you begin your study of martial arts, you | | | | impact than regular mats. |
| will discover that there are a wide variety of | | | | Breaking boards are used in breaking |
| martial arts supplies that novices and professionals | | | | demonstrations, in which martial artists use a part |
| alike use on a regular basis. The main type of | | | | of their body, usually their hands or feet, to break |
| gear includes weapons, dojo mats, breaking | | | | objects like boards, bricks, and occasionally blocks |
| boards, uniforms, targets, protective equipment, | | | | of ice. Wooden breaking boards are the most |
| and related supplies. | | | | common item, and are available in several |
| Weapons are a broad category, particularly when | | | | different sizes. There are even very small boards |
| it comes to weapons related to or used in martial | | | | designed for use by very young children. |
| arts. One of the most traditional types of | | | | Uniforms are another essential part of any martial |
| weapons is the Japanese bow, or Yumi, a term | | | | arts students supply list. The uniform, or gi, is |
| that includes both the longbow and the short bow. | | | | usually white, but comes in other colors as well. |
| The Yumi is traditionally made out of laminated | | | | There are uniform variations between martial arts |
| bamboo and is asymmetrically shaped. The string | | | | styles, but all uniforms are designed to be |
| of the Yumi is traditionally made of hemp, but | | | | lightweight, flexible, and durable. Your instructor will |
| most modern day bows have synthetically made | | | | be able to help you choose the best type of |
| strings. Historians hypothesize that the unique | | | | uniform for you, depending on your discipline. |
| shape of the Yumi allowed it to be used more | | | | Martial arts supplies come in all shapes, sizes, and |
| easily by fighters on horseback. | | | | varieties. Some are designed specifically for use |
| Dojo mats are standard martial arts supplies for | | | | within a certain discipline or field, while other types, |
| any karate studio. Their cushioned surface is | | | | like dojo mats, are designed to be used by all |
| designed to reduce the impact of a fall during | | | | students of martial arts. When you are shopping |
| practice or a match, and ultimately, reduce the | | | | for your supplies, be sure to purchase the correct |
| likelihood and severity of injuries. The main types | | | | types. Again, your instructor will be able to help |
| of mats include standard, and grappling and take | | | | you with this and provide suggestions as to styles |
| down mats, which are designed to absorb more | | | | and brands. |