Whether it’s a student beginning a regimen or a martial arts instructor, having the right equipment can make all the difference. If you’ve gotten involved in all types of martial arts and this is your first time shopping for equipment, you may be overwhelmed by the sheer number of different options you have.
Fortunately, if you know what to look for, picking out the best martial arts belts or patch for you or your student is simple and straightforward. Below, we will discuss some of the different options and what makes each one worth your while.
Understanding the Different Color Belt Rankings
A common misconception about martial arts is that each style has the same type of belt system. In reality, there are different types of belts and patches used in a wide variety of martial arts styles. Understanding the different color-belt rankings is essential to test a student’s progress.
Different martial arts styles follow different systems. This system assigns the color of a belt or patch. For example, karate generally goes from white to black belts.
Hapkido progresses from yellow to red and then black. In Judo, there are six color-belt divisions ranging from white to black.
Additionally, there are special identification rewards such as rank certificates and special designs in some martial arts styles.
While martial artists may not be familiar with all the different systems, a guide can help them identify the various belt rankings and patches used in their style of martial arts.
Patches and the Meanings Behind Them
The meaning of martial arts patches is a popular way for practitioners in the art to show their affiliation and rank. Patches of various sizes and shapes denote rank, style of martial art, or region of origin.
They usually show martial artists how far along the path of their training they have gone. From white to black belt, the colors of the patches vary by discipline, color, and the number of stripes representing ranking. Each patch serves as a motivator and a reminder of the goals achieved and future goals to conquer.
Receiving a patch gives a sense of pride and accomplishment. On top of that, martial arts patches also share a sense of community, not only to all martial artists but to all who are connected to them.
Wearing patches on the uniform binds martial artists around the world. This gives a chance to recognize the history and traditions that go with all martial arts. To receive a particular patch means the martial artist has met certain expectations and accomplished tasks.
The martial arts patch is a symbol of a martial artist’s progress and is often seen sewn onto a karate gi or kung fu uniform. Patches are a mini-badge of honor and serve as a way of displaying respect and discipline within the martial arts.
The history of martial arts patch-making goes back centuries. It is something that has been passed down through generations. This helps martial artists celebrate the successes and hard work of those who have come before them.
All Types of Martial Arts Have Belts and Patch Systems
Within all types of martial arts, belts and patches have a range of meanings and symbolic values and are fundamental to a practitioner’s progression. They are vital to the martial artist’s journey and give the student tangible goals to pursue. If you strive to become an experienced martial artist, explore the variety of belts and patches available to you today.
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