Student Tkd
Can Tae Kwon Do Gear Affect Competition? by Master Forlanda
If you or someone close to you competes in sparring, we all know they have to wear some equipment-specifically TKD sparring gear. This also is true for someone competing in forms; they must wear a WTF approved equipment.
Sparring Gear
Can the right Tae Kwon Do sparring gear impact in one’s sparring ability?
First of all, to compete in an Olympic style Taekwondo Sparring event that is supported by USA Taekwondo, you’ll need to get sparring gear conforming to these requirements:
- WTF sanctioned gear
- white, red, or blue head gear
- red or blue Chest Protector
- note: in current events, they use equipment that has electronic sensors for scoring; n this case, you don’t have to carry equipment, but I would not participate one without a set, just in case.
On top of these minimum requirements, you’ll want to be sure these are taken into consideration:
- All gear fits you
- All equipment has the right protection coverage
- The equipment feel right (in other words, not distracting)
One of the most important piece of gear is the Groin Protector. If this piece of gear feels wrong, the athlete will be regulary disturbed by that equipment. Note that, attempting to keep up with an opposing guy is a challenge by itself, and definitely adding a constant preoccupation with the groin protector will not improve the situation any, but would certainly put the opponent at an advantage.
Main point: make sure you have the right certified gear, and that they have the proper protection coverage, color, and most importantly–fit.
Tae Kwon Do Uniform for Forms Events
Having the right gear for forms/poomsae tournaments is just as important. Here, we are focusing at the uniform being worn in competition.
It might sound immaterial, but the right uniform can improve one’s performance.
Here are points to consider when participating in forms (these are the main points judges watch out for):
- Skill crispness
- Performer’s balance
- Correctness of the form
- Form delivery
The correct uniform can improve the snappiness of your kick. In general, a uniform that is hefty will improve the snap-that’s assuming there is snap in the movement to start with. Look at and try out several uniforms. You’ll notice that the ones that are bulkier and have already been broken in will yield the maximum snap.
Competitor’s Balance
I’ve seen forms athletes having to fix up their pants because it is lengthy. When your feet end up stepping on your pants, that can cause you to lose your equilibrium. Ensure your clothing has good fit, primarily the length of your pants. The last thing you want to worry about is slipping on your own pants; this can undoubtedly cause the judges to deduct points from the balance issue resulting from this problem.
Precision & Sharpness of the Form/Poomsae
In addition to losing balance, wearing poor fitting competition Taekwondo uniform set you back or your student in terms of form precision and sharpness. Visualize having to adjust the pants or the top during performance. This can definitely occur with the less experienced poomsae or forms competitor.
Form/Poomsae Appearance
Referees can make mistakes. Everyone are prejudiced to some level, and even though they try hard to be objective, specific things can sway them to be more subjective when judging you. So, if you are using a uniform that makes you look sharp, it only adds to your side in persuading the judges you are number one. This is key, you’ll have to back up that look with your extremely confident presence in entering and leaving the floor.
Key Points
There are a couple of areas in Taekwondo tournaments where the proper gear or equipment can heighten your competition execution:
- Sparring or gyoroogi
- Forms or poomsae
In Taekwondo sparring, utilizing the right equipment can assist in guaranteeing you can compete (because the national competition events require that you have World Taekwondo Federation approved gear). With the right protection coverage, fit, and size, you won’t have to concern yourself about the equipment distracting you, but just performing its job of protecting you.
Poomsae or forms competition is no different. The right uniform can amplify your form presentation. If you already have good form, the right uniform should be able to enhance your snap. Also, a properly fitted uniform can help prevent balance and form preciseness issues caused by too big or longer uniform. Lastly, a well presented uniform can help accentuate your form execution.
In competition, everything counts. Use everything, including your Taekwondo Gear to your advantage.
About the Author
Master Forlanda is a Master Instructor at Koryo Family Taekwondo Center in Stockton, CA, USA. He is a 5th degree black belt. He shares his insights on competition, Taekwondo gear, reviews, and opinions at www.mytaekwondogear.com. If you want more topics related to Taekwondo gear or equipment, make sure to visit his site.
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