Thursday, April 28, 2011

Recommended Sparring Gear For Your Needs

By Martin E. Draike


Sparring with other martial artist or student is usually the best test for just about all martial artists. However, there are things which you have to consider initially before going into a sparring session. Do you have the appropriate karate sparring gear, for instance? Didn't think so. So before you go on fists flying into sparring sessions, make sure to check out what your instructor suggests in terms of the types of sparring protective equipment or gear you need to have and where you can obtain it. You instructors can easily tell you exactly what types of equipment you will need for sparring and also training.

There are also training clinics that can even recommend equipment size that you will require and also be able to explain how the equipment should fit you. Another consideration will be the style of martial arts you are training for and what that certain sparring method will need as far as safety gear is concerned. For example, there are styles that may require martial arts shoes while some may not. There are also martial arts sparring sessions that would recommend on a certain style of uniform and even training equipment. Ergo, before you begin buying, you need to know what is, and what is not allowed.

First, you will have to take into consideration your attire. While buying uniforms like judo gi is important, it is martial arts shoes that would need to be at the top of your sparring shopping list.

Do remember though, that there are two kinds of sparring footwear that you can decide on from: Foam dipped or vinyl. Which one you invest in is a matter of personal choice. Foam dipped shoes are more resistant to slipping and sliding than vinyl made shoes. On the other hand, vinyl is a lot more comfortable and stronger. Either way, it will be better to ask your trainer for suggestions.

And then of course, there are protective gears. Making use of mouth guards while sparring is advised and wise. Although a lot of training clinics have really strict no hitting on the face rule, you really can't rule out accidents or slips to happen, could you? Therefore, the value of mouth guards to help cushion the shock of any kind of blow to your head. Not to mention it helps a lot to prevent having all of your teeth knocked out of your mouth, or at best, broken. And although there are several martial arts styles frown about the significance of wearing a chest protector; this piece of protective equipment is crucial and must always be a part of the gear you got in your martial arts training bag.

These sparring gear and protective equipment are generally obtainable in websites like www.MartialArtsEquipmentDirect.com and there are also a lot of retail shops that you could look into or shop around in. Be certain though that you do not give up quality over saving several bucks or so. Keep in mind, this is your safety we are discussing here.




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