Taekwondo will teach your children discipline while they exercise and stay fit.  If you are in the process of enrolling your child in a taekwondo class, you need to make sure you can afford the monthly fees and the cost of taekwondo equipment.  There are several different types of equipment that will help students stay protected while they practice kicks and stances.  Some equipment is also necessary for practice.  Learn what equipment you will need to invest in and what is offered by the studio so you do not have to buy everything needed.

Your Uniform and Shoes

When you start, the only type of equipment you will need initially is a uniform and perhaps taekwondo shoes.  The uniform, which is called a dobok, is usually available for purchase through the studio.  The shoes must be specially designed for kicking and your instructor should be able to tell you where you can buy these shoes.  They are lightweight and protective and will not ruin mats when they are worn during sparing or training.

Sparing Gear

The only other type of Taekwondo equipment you will need to buy is sparing equipment.  After your child gets to purple belt they will begin sparing and practicing their kicks and techniques with other students.  Sparing gear will protect your child during the sparing sessions.  You will need to buy a head guard, a mouth guard, a groin guard, shin guards, forearm guards, body guards, and whatever else the instructor recommends.  Because these items are very bulky you may also need to invest in a large gym bag for transport.  Your child will not be able to spar without this equipment because it can be very dangerous.

Most other equipment will be found in the studio.  This includes punching bags, dummies, and other items that will be used during each class.  If you want your child to practice at home, you may need to invest in some affordable equipment they can use while they are away from the studio.  If you are not sure what to buy you should ask the Master and they will tell you what will be useful at home.  Make sure you price Taekwondo equipment before you enroll your child and invest in everything your child needs to master the art.