Karate: what kit do you need?

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What Equipment does your kid need to practice karate

As well as helping your child to learn valuable life lessons, there is another reason to introduce them to karate: it is an affordable sport for beginners. In fact, before your child even sets foot in a dojo, they can start learning the basics of karate without any equipment at all.

If your child is keen to start learning the basics at home, all they need is comfortable clothing. Joggers and a t-shirt will do. We don’t want the clothes to be too baggy as they can get in the way of movements.

Karate is usually practiced barefoot, which helps improve balance and grip. If your child is practicing drills outside, it might be useful to wear trainers or sneakers with good grips so they do not slip.

What about karate kit?

If your child is enjoying karate and wants to start taking lessons, you will probably be asked to invest in a Karate Gi (the standard training outfit).

Kids can practice karate in normal sports clothes, but if they start taking lessons they will need a Karate Gi

Karate Gi’s can often be purchased directly from a karate club, or from larger sports outlets. You don’t need to spend a fortune on the Gi, and if you are concerned about costs check out our Thrifty Parents Guide to purchasing sports equipment.

When choosing a Gi for your child there are two things to focus on:

🥋 Material: We want a lightweight cotton, that ideally comes with a white belt (the first level of karate).

🥋 Fit: While Karate Gi’s should be loose, they shouldn’t be too loose. It’s tempting to buy a size up for your child, knowing that they will grow into it. However, remember that they will be moving around a lot, and learning complex maneuvers. A little loose is okay for comfort, but don’t make it too baggy.

Optional Extras: Things You Can Buy Your Karate Kid

Beyond the Gi, your karate kid doesn’t need much more equipment. However, if they are excited to practice at home you can help provide a safer, more structured environment with a few (relatively inexpensive) purchases:

🥋 Martial Arts Mat: If your child is practicing at home, a rug or grass will provide some cushioning if they slip or are learning falls (ukemi), stances, and kata. A padded martial arts mat provides even more cushioning. Buy a foldable one so that it is easy to store under a bed or behind a sofa.

Focus mitts are a great gift for children who want to practice at home,

🥋 Kick Pad or Focus Mitts: Karate is a combat sport, and you should ne be surprised if your child wants to practice kicks and punches. Investing in a kick pad or focus mitts/punch gloves lets them practice safely at home. Even better: you can train with them using this equipment and help them to focus on form and safety.

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