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 in this particular discipline. Taekwondo is a type of martial art that originated in Korea and was put into use by the special forces group called Hwarang. Through the evolution of various amalgamations of styles, Taekwondo appeared. Now one of the most widely 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, the way you care for your dobok is of vital importance. There is a lot of tradition 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 matters 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 does not come in a small, medium, or large size. They can be sized in centimeters, which corresponds to your height, or a number from 00 to 7. However, each depends on your height, weight, and waist size. Choosing the correct size is very important as it will dictate how well you will do in your practice. Pants that are too long will cause you to step on the hems and lose your balance. Tops that are too tight won’t 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 plain white doboks. Of course, this is up to the sensei, and some allowances are made for wearing t-shirts. The colored ones, or the ones with black trim around the necks, are reserved for those who are black belts or about to finish their test.

Wear your uniform the right way

In addition to buying the right uniform for you, great care must also be taken in how you wear your dobok. The pants are put on with the label on the front inside. Ties are usually available to adjust the pants to a comfortable size. The top goes on like a t-shirt, but with a little twist. There is an elastic that goes around the waist to a button under a placket to tighten the back. Make sure the elastic is hidden at the top and doesn’t hang down.

Sew badges carefully on your Taekwondo uniform

After going to tournaments, or just bragging about your school, you might want to sew a patch on your uniform. Always make sure 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 poorly sewn patch in the wrong place.

Take great care when washing your Taekwondo Dobok

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