Martial arts, including karate, might seem violent at first glance, but they're rooted in centuries of training for self-defense, self-knowledge, respect and discipline. Although often attributed as a Japanese martial art or used as a general term for any martial art, the word Karate refers to a distinct family of martial-arts styles such as Goju Ryu, Shorin Ryu, Uechi Rue and Shorei Ryu, all of which trace their roots back to Okinawa.
Uniform And Belt
No matter what sort of karate you study you can expect to wear a gi, or karate uniform. You might be allowed to do an introductory class in sweats, but if you decide to keep taking classes wearing a uniform and caring for it well is part of the discipline and respect taught in karate. Your instructor might sell you a gi with the school's emblem embroidered on the back, or you might be allowed to purchase your own from a martial arts supply store. The belt you wear with your uniform indicates how far you've come on the learning continuum; beginners usually wear white belts. Plan on going barefoot during class.
Helmet, Mouthguard And Groin Protector
Although the specific equipment sparring equipment you're allowed or required to wear for sparring in any Karate school may vary, you can always slip a groin protector on underneath your gi pants. You can purchase padded groin protectors for men and women, and insert a hard cup as necessary. A mouthguard is also reasonable gear, as accidental blows to the mouth do happen. Head kicks and punches might or might not be allowed when you spar. If they are, you can and should wear a padded helmet to protect you against head and brain injuries.
Gloves And Foot/Shin Protectors
Chest protectors such as those worn in taekwondo tournaments aren't commonly used in karate sparring matches. But you might encounter padded gloves -- usually lighter and slimmer than boxing gloves -- and padded foot or shin protectors. Speak with your instructor before purchasing any of this gear to make sure exactly what is required or allowed for sparring practice and competition. Requirements will vary from school to school and depending on which national or international organization, if any, is overseeing the tournament.
Weapons
Weapons are a common part of karate training, but don't expect to start using them right away. Your instructor will tell you when you're ready. Weapons you might learn to use include the kama, a sickle-shaped blade on a short handle; long or short staffs, known as bo and jo respectively; tonfa, similar to a policeman's baton; katana, a traditional Japanese long sword; and nunchaku, sometimes referred to as nunchucks, a traditional Okinawan threshing tool.
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