Students who intend to advance to the next level in this sport and earn a new belt must demonstrate their abilities in four areas: patterns, self defense, a break test and sparring.

One of the best things about Tae Kwon do is that it can be done by people of any age. This martial art can be learned by a young child as well as an adult. Many people find that they can greatly improve their flexibility as well as sharpen their minds using this sport and children as young as five can also benefit from the teachings of this martial art. It also kept my mind sharp when I had to memorize all the various patterns.

However, there is some basic Tae kwon do equipment which you’ll need to get started in the sport. The first thing you are going to need is the Tae Kwon do uniform which is also known as a dobok. If you want to make a good impression in the Dojo (the place you practice Tae Kwon do), you must make sure that your uniform is clean and pressed. When you first begin this sport, most schools prefer that you wear a plain white uniform.

You will definitely need a chest protector, and if you are planning to compete you will need a chest protector that has shoulder padding. When you look at chest protectors, make sure to get one which uses ties rather than Velcro as a fastener, since these protectors are far easier to adjust for a good fit.

Shin guards are something else you should add to your list of Tae kwon do equipment. Make sure that the guards aren’t too long, since this will make it difficult to bend your knees and ankles As well as shin guards, you are going to need arm protectors. Arm guards are also a good idea, since these will protect your forearms when you block kicks with your arms. Again, it’s important to be sure that these fit well before you decide on a pair.

A head guard is another essential piece of tae kwon do equipment; this will provide you with some protection from the high kicks which are common in sparring. These are usually white just like Tae kwon do uniforms, but more important than color is that this guard is well made and will do a good job of absorbing the force of kicks and punches.

If you are going to be sparring, the groin guard is an essential part of your Tae Kwon do equipment. You must step into your groin guard in order to put it on. The elastic first goes around your waist and then around the back of your legs. If you plan to spar in Tae Kwon do tournaments, your groin guard must be worn underneath your dobok.

These are all of the pieces of Tae Kwon do equipment that are necessary to practice this sport. While these are what you need to get started, you may want to pick up some additional gear if you plan to compete in Tae kwon do competitions; However, I would not go overboard on the price until you see if you like it.