
Restricted Movement - having bulky clothing under the uniform may restrict the student’s ability to move well. This can also result in chaffing and rashes, compounding the problem.
Overheating - Martial arts uniforms are designed to allow air to circulate around the body, which helps keep the student cool. Clothing under the uniform not only shuts this down, but also adds layers of insulation that keep the body heated, affecting the student’s ability to perform.
Poor Appearance - Street clothing hanging out of the pants or jacket of the uniform affects the student’s appearance negatively. Not only does this look bad, but it also ruins an important part of the reason why students all wear the same uniform. A standard uniform in the Dojo contributes to a sense of a team working together to help each other learn.
If a student feels the need to wear their street clothing under their uniform, we recommend wearing shorts with a t-shirt tucked in. Remember that long sleeves, pants, and collars or hoods will limit your ability to move and cause you to overheat in training. If a student has street clothing hanging out of their uniform they will be asked to leave the class so that they can change to correct the problem.
Of course, students should also make sure that their uniform is clean and fits properly whenever they attend class. As younger students grow, a new Gi is needed periodically. The uniform should also have patches that are appropriate for the classes that they’re attending, too. Thanks for your understanding and cooperation.