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Martial Arts Supplies

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Learning martial arts is rewarding and improves physical and mental reaction time. It promotes healthy living, peace and sustainability, but its main goal is to defeat an opponent and defend oneself and others from threats. Many styles are deeply rooted in Asian religions and belief systems such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Shinto, Confucianism, and Daoism. In American much of the religious significance has been lost or is not studied, but these schools still have codes of honor that originated in these belief systems.

Some martial arts, notably capoeria which has roots in Africa, but was widely practiced by slaves in Brazil, blend dance into the fighting style. This was done to confuse slave owners into thinking it was a dance, while in reality they were training to fight and defend themselves. There are many martial arts that have been practiced throughout time. Many have adapted into new forms while more have been lost through the passing of time. Asian martial arts are the most widely practiced fighting style today, but almost all modern styles, such as karate and judo developed from similar roots in India and China.

Around 600 BC extensive trade began between these two countries, at a time when China was having many wars between the individual states inside their country. Learning to fight and defend oneself and their family became incredibly important when existing social contracts were lost. Tradition passed from master to student and fighting styles spread, adapted and became more advanced, many of them beginning to incorporate weapons and other martial arts supplies.

Martial arts supplies are used in many different fighting styles, and have many different uses. The first supplies were weapons, such as a sword, nun chucks, katanas, staff, and especially everyday objects that are available during a fight, as illustrated by Jackie Chan in numerous films. There are thousands of variations on martial arts weapons, some developed for specific styles, while some can be adapted to almost any style. These supplies are for business, when there is nothing left to lose except your life.

Fortunately those actual weapons are rarely used, but people are trained how to use them with practicing supplies that mimic the weapon in weight and motion but are non-lethal, often made from wood. A staff is a widely used piece of equipment, it can be used to defend as well as attack, and is an excellent sparring tool.

Learning to spar is an important part of every martial art, even mixed martial arts and boxing. Beginners should use extra protective padding besides just gloves and headgear. Shin and foot pads, chest protectors and knee guards can make sparring fun and boost confidence for younger and less experienced martial artists. Martial arts supplies can be found at many schools, or dojos, as well as major sporting goods stores.

Of all martial arts supplies the uniform is the most similar among different styles. They consist of three parts, pants, jacket and belt and are often mistakenly called a “gi” for many styles although “gi” really means pajamas in Chinese and Japanese. Once your outfitted with the right gear, learning martial arts becomes a immersive and rewarding experience.

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