5 great tips to help you take care of your taekwondo uniform

The Taekwondo uniform, or dobok, has its own style that makes it unique to this particular discipline. Taekwondo is a type of martial arts that has its origins in Korea and was used with the special forces group called Hwarang. Through the evolution of various fusions of styles, Taekwondo made its appearance. Now one of the most practiced martial arts in the world, Taekwondo is also one of only two martial arts to be in the Olympics.

As with any type of martial arts, how you care for your dobok is vitally important. There is a lot of tradition that is involved with martial arts and this does not stop with the Taekwondo uniform. Everything from the size you buy to the way you wash it is important when you show up at the dojang or dojo, ready to practice, teach or test.

Choose the right size for your outfit

Unlike many other garments, the dobok is not small, medium, or large. They can have a size in centimeters that corresponds to your height, or with a number from 00 to 7. Each one depends on the height, weight and size of the waist. Choosing the correct size is very important as it will determine how well your practice will do. Pants that are too long will cause you to step on the hems and lose your balance. Tops that are too tight will not allow you to move smoothly or easily.

Choose the right color for your martial arts outfit

One of the many mistakes people make when buying their Taekwondo uniform is buying different colors. Most schools require beginning students to wear all white doboks without any embellishment. Of course, this is up to the sensei, and some concessions are made for wearing t-shirts. The colored ones, or those with black piping around the collars, are reserved for those who are black belts or are about to complete their test.

Wear your uniform the right way

In addition to buying the right uniform for yourself, you also need to be very careful in how you wear your dobok. The pants are put on with the label on the front inside. Ties are usually available to adjust your pants to a comfortable size. The top dons like a t-shirt, but with a little twist. There is an elastic that goes around the waist to a button under a flap to tighten the back. Make sure the elastic is hidden at the top and is not dangling.

Sew badges carefully onto your taekwondo uniform

After going to tournaments or just showing off your school, you may want to sew a patch on your uniform. Always make sure that the patch is sewn on the left side of your dobok and with small stitches. The last thing your sensei wants to see is a badly sewn patch in the wrong place.

Be very careful when washing your Taekwondo Dobok

After each practice session, be sure to wash your uniform. Use cold water on a gentle cycle and hang it up immediately to dry. Once dry, you should always iron your uniform to make sure there are no wrinkles.