Every end is a new beginning and the end of summer is one of the biggest new beginnings of the year.

Students of all ages are about to start a new school year. Parents, teachers, and everyone else involved in education renews their routines. Even people who aren’t going back to school can get in on the action. For many people, the start of a new school year has become almost like a second New Year. It’s a great opportunity to take a look at how your resolutions are going and set some new goals. 

And new goals and new adventures need new gear. So whether you’re starting at a new school, going into a new grade, or embarking on a whole new training journey, here are 5 products from AWMA that will help you navigate uncharted territory. 

A New Outfit

No matter what type of journey you’re about to start, it will probably help to dress the part.

Some new pursuits come with an actual uniform. If you’re starting a training program in Karate, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or Tae Kwon Do, for example, you will need to get yourself a gi or a dubok. If you’re taking up Muay Thai, most gyms will encourage you to wear Muay Thai shorts. For boxing, you’ll need boxing gloves and might want to consider a pair of boxing shorts and boxing shoes, too. 

There are a number of reasons why a new uniform or outfit can help you prepare for and get the most out of your new venture. From an external perspective, it conveys to your teachers and teammates that you are invested in being part of their community and showing up for that community. And it provides you with some of the tools you need to properly train with other people, too. 

Internally, it can also help you feel more excited and invested. You might even feel a little less self-conscious about whether or not you belong when you already look the part.

And even if your brand new thing doesn’t require you to get a brand new look, sometimes it’s fun and motivating to treat yourself to a new fit. Like something cool from the ProForce Sport line, for example.

A Bag

Wherever you’re going on your new journey, you’ll probably need to take some stuff with you. And you’ll need something to carry that stuff in.

Luckily, ProForce has a wide range of gear bags and backpacks to meet almost every gear and accessory-carrying need. Have a lot of bulky training and sparring gear to lug to and from the gym? There’s a ProForce bag for that. Need something well-ventilated that will help you air out sweaty gear and clothing after a hard training or exercise session? There’s a bag for that, too. Need to carry a bunch of textbooks or any other heavy load? ProForce has backpacks that will help you distribute that weight so that you can transport your important materials in an effective and more comfortable manner. 

And all ProForce gear bags come with extra pockets that will help you keep any other personal items well organized and easily accessible. So you can eliminate the extra stress of worrying about where your keys and phone are from your journey, too.

A Water Bottle

No matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, you’ve got to hydrate. 

This is especially important for anyone whose new program involves sweating. Water and sports drinks can help you replenish some of the fluids you’re losing during physical movement of any intensity. But even if your pursuits are more sedentary in nature, making sure you’re getting enough water can help your mind and body feel a lot better. Proper hydration might even give you an edge in your mental performance. 

A good water bottle can help you reach and maintain the proper level of hydration. And ProForce happens to have just the right piece of equipment for that, too.

Pencils

If you’re actually going back to school, you will definitely need some pencils. 

But even if your new learning adventure is taking you to the gym, the outside world, or beyond, it couldn’t hurt to take some notes along the way. Or even keep a journal. Pack a notebook or some scrap paper in your gear bag, add a pencil or two, and take a moment to reflect on where you’ve been and where you’re going. Taking handwritten notes can help you slow down and really think about what you’re taking in — and maybe even retain it better.

And ProForce has a product for that, too.

Martial Arts Stretching Poster

Whatever you’re doing and wherever you’re going this back to school season, you’re going to need some downtime to allow yourself to properly rest and recover. You’ll need to sleep well. You might want to consider putting a mat on the floor and trying a little meditation. While you’re down there, you could throw in a few stretches. 

Stretching and other mobility-based exercises are obviously important if your new journey involves a physical component. Flexibility and mobility can help you feel and preform better, and they might also contribute to injury prevention. But even if you don’t need to be physically limber for your new venture, as little as a few stretches per day can help you manage your stress levels and keep your mind in shape for your next lesson.

If you’re not sure what kind of stretches to do or how to do them, AWMA has something for that, too.

The post Go Back To School With These AWMA Products first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Summer’s not over yet, but we are starting to see a little pants weather sneak into shorts season. 

That doesn’t mean that it’s time to pack up all of the performance and fashion-forward ProForce shorts we profiled last month or relegate them to indoor training for the rest of the year. There are still plenty of warm and hot days ahead. And plenty of chances to show your shorts off during training and beyond. 

But there are some chilly nights and a temperate fall ahead. So it might be time to add a slick and functional pair of ProForce pants or two to your martial arts apparel roster. 

To help you find the best pairs for your training and leisure needs, we’ve put together this look at ProForce’s Karate pants roster. Whether you’re searching for something to train in, wear as a cover up on your way to and from the gym, take on the town, or get cozy in at home, there’s something here for you. ProForce will have you looking and feeling cooler than a late fall day.

Demo Pants

Just like the name says, these pants are designed for Karate demonstrations. Their lighter weight fabrics and looser fits give you all of the comfort and ease of movement you need to perform to the best of your abilities in acrobatic displays, forms, and other public performances. And their eye-catching designs do their part to keep all eyes on you and highlight your skills. 

But all of the things that make a good pair of demo pants the perfect fit for Karate demos make them a great choice for all sorts of other activities, too. Their mix of form and fashion can keep you feeling and looking good on the way to and from the gym, lounging around at home, or showing off your streetwear style. 

ProForce Sport® Gladiator Demo Karate Pants II: These 8oz pants are made from a soft and comfortable medium weight cotton and polyester blend that’s equally suitable for work and play. They have a drawstring waist and a cool but understated double stripe design along the outer legs that’s available in six colorways. Plus, they have pockets! $31.99-$39.99 USD.

ProForce Sport® Gladiator Demo Karate Pants: If you love the overall look and feel of the ProForce Sport® Gladiator Demo Karate Pants II, but aren’t sure if that exact design is for you, these pants offer the same comfy but durable fabric with a single solid stripe and four different color options. $31.99-$44.99 USD.

ProForce® Demo III Karate Pants: And if you love the look and feel of ProForce Sport® Gladiator Demo Karate Pants II, but are in the market for something a little breezier, this member of the ProForce® Demo family comes in a 6oz cotton and polyester blend. $39.95-$59.95 USD. 

Athleisure Demo Pants

Are you in the mood for even more flash? ProForce’s athleisure line has some stunners that will keep you looking good in competition, on the street, on the dancefloor, and anywhere else you want to take them.

ProForce Sport® Satin Demo Pants: For the more fashion forward demo pants fans — or anyone looking for an even softer take on the style — ProForce® Sport has a 6oz lightweight contender. As pretty as they are powerful, these polyester satin pants have a drawstring waist, pockets, and the kind of bold and boundary pushing look we’ve come to know and love from ProForce Sport®. Available in light blue, white, pink, and yellow. $49.99 USD. 

ProForce Sport® Demo Karate Pants: For anyone who loves the flashier ProForce Sport® looks but isn’t sure about satin, the athleisure line also offers a demo pant design in an 8oz cotton and polyester blend. This spin on the classic demo pants style also has a drawstring waist and side pockets. And it comes in four color combinations, ranging from more traditional and subtle (black with green and yellow stripes, black with yellow and red stripes), to the quietly innovative (half black and half white with stripes), to the loud and vibrant (red, blue, and yellow).$29.95 USD. 

Karate Uniform Pants

Karate pants also do exactly what they say on the tin and a whole lot more. They’re great for more casual training that doesn’t require a full gi. You can also use them as replacement parts in a martial arts uniform if your training style is harder on pants than gi tops. 

But you can also wear them for other types of martial arts training and cross-training. After a few washes, they can also become pretty cozy lounge and pyjama pants. 

ProForce® Gladiator Karate Pants: These classic, lightweight all purpose Karate pants are made with a cotton and polyester blend and feature an elastic drawstring waist. They’re available in black and white and 6oz and 8oz, weaves. $22.99-$29.99 USD. 

ProForce® Gladiator Karate Pants: If you’re looking for a more traditional style and more durable weave, ProForce® also offers 100% cotton Gladiator Karate Pants with a traditional drawstring waist in 12oz and 14oz. $49.99-$64.95 USD.

“Ultra” Gladiator® Proforce® Karate Pants: If you’re more interested in the latest innovation in Karate pants, this 5oz cotton and polyester twill blend model is the one for you. Their elastic waistband and drawstring will provide you with maximum security and comfort. A diamond gusseted crotch and an expanded seat and thigh fit will give you all of the freedom of motion you need for kicks, splits, and any other big moves. And their double stitched seams are there to help those pants survive all of the wear and tear you’ll put them through in training and beyond. They even have reinforced side pockets so that you can keep your essentials close before and after class. $44.99-$54.99 USD. 

The post 8 ProForce Karate Pants That Will Keep You Fit, Functional, and Fashionable first appeared on AWMA Blog.

It’s been a sweltering summer so far, and the heat isn’t going away any time soon. Maintaining a solid — and responsible — training routine in this kind of weather can be a real challenge. 

We’ve talked a lot about warm and hot weather martial arts training in this blog over the years. We’ve shared tips for working out in the summer heat and tips for staying as cool as possible during that training. We’ve also looked at what kind of exercise and training gear can help you beat the heat. 

But no matter how smartly you train and how well you prepare, there are going to be days where you can’t train exactly the way you want to. Sometimes it’s just too hot to participate in any higher intensity workouts, drills, or sparring. And sometimes it’s so hot — or the air quality is so bad — that even modified versions of your usual training become a little too risky. Even if you’re hydrating properly, monitoring for signs of heat stroke, and wearing the best possible hot weather ProForce training gear. 

So what can you do instead? Well, you can take a bonus rest day. Rest is a vital component of any type of martial arts or fitness training, after all! Or you can look into some low intensity and low impact drills and cross-training opportunities that are more appropriate for the dog days of summer. 

Here are five activities that can keep you moving when the air is more heated than any rivalry. 

Core Training 

A blistering hot day with an air quality warning isn’t the time to break out your favourite high intensity ab routine. But you can put together a series of lower intensity exercises that can maintain — or even improve — your core strength, core stability, and overall balance. That includes planks, Russian twists, slow inchworms, bicycle crunches, dead bugs, and even standing on one leg. You can also add some Pilates moves to this mix, but we recommend sticking to more basic moves like the roll up and single leg stretch. If the heat tends to make you feel sluggish or confused, save the more complicated moves for a cooler day.

Core work is an extremely important part of any cross-training program for any martial art. Power, strength, and stability are all generated from that part of that body. Any work you do on your core during your light training days will pay off when you can get back to the tougher stuff. All you’ll need is a mat and some light and airy clothing like a ProForce Sport® Logo T-Shirt and ProForce® 5 Oz. Karate Shorts.

Flexibility and Mobility Training

You’ve heard of hot yoga, but what about heat wave yoga? 

Seriously, though, a gentle and methodical stretching/mobility routine is a great way to add some responsible movement to a day that’s too hot for anything else. And just like core work, even the lightest intensity flexibility and mobility training can help make you a better martial artist in the long run. A solid range of motion through your joints can make everything from your strikes to your throws to your submissions moves more technical, powerful, and overall effective. 

All you’ll need is a mat, some light and loose ProForce clothing, and a few slow and gentle moves from classic stretching, yoga, animal flow, or Pilates. 

Light Shadowboxing

Shadowboxing is a great form of exercise for strikers and anyone else who loves a fun and effective workout. Even a few minutes of shadowboxing at a time can improve your cardio, muscular endurance, techniques, focus, and overall body awareness. 

We don’t recommend doing the kind of shadowboxing that works on the first two in extremely hot weather. But you can do really slow and precise shadowboxing that really helps you narrow in on the fine details of your striking techniques. Going slow can also help to develop your patience and mental focus.

All you really need for this one is any shirt and shorts that will keep you cool in this weather. If you’re training in bare feet, a mat or a pair of Hy-Gens will help keep your the soles of your feet and the surface of your floors in a better state. If you’re not, a pair of ProForce® Velocity Shoes can help your feet feel more comfortable supported. 

Light Solo Grappling Drills

If you’re a grappler, we have similar suggestions and warnings for you. Solo drills, including sit outs, triangle choke set ups, and hip escapes, are also great for developing the cardio, muscular strength, endurance, balance, agility, and body awareness you need for takedowns, submission attempts, sweeps, and defences. But you probably don’t want to go too hard or too fast when it’s hot. Heat warning days aren’t the best time to work on your sprawls, for example.

What you can do, though, is slow things right down and really fine-tune your movements. Performing a series of classic solo drills as gently and methodically as you can will help to make you a more technical, precise, and focussed martial artist. 

And all you need for this one are some jigsaw mats, a light weight uniform or other light clothing that will keep you cool and cut down on how much you stick to those mats. 

Watching and Visualizing 

Of course, there are some types of weather and some circumstances that aren’t ideal for any type of training no matter how careful you are. Sometimes the weather is just too hot or the air quality is just too close to the danger zone. In those cases, you can take a day off. Again, rest is a key component of any good training routine. But if you really want to do something, you can do what martial artists do when they’re sidelined with an injury: watch.

Off days are a great opportunity to work on your mental game. That can include watching videos of your own performance, watching an instructional video, reviewing stretching techniques or striking points, watching or reading interviews with other martial artists you admire, or even closing your eyes and visualizing what you want to do when it’s cool and clear enough to train again. Learning from doing isn’t the only way to become a better martial artist. You can also learn from observation. 

The post 5 Exercises To Try When You Can’t Beat The Heat first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Sun’s out, shins out.

It’s a scorcher of a summer out there. If you really want to stay cool, you’ll want to take a multi-pronged approach. That includes rethinking your hydration levels, the intensity and type of training you’re doing, and your clothing. 

We’ll be back with some training tips later month. (We also recommend checking out our archives for more information on how to feel and smell as fresh as possible during hot weather training.) But first, let’s talk about your wardrobe.

Here are five types of shorts that will keep you feeling and looking cool at the gym, in the ring, or anywhere else you want to show off ProForce’s finest. 

Karate Shorts

ProForce Karate shorts are light enough to help you beat the heat. They’re also durable enough to survive all of the training you’ll be able to do when you’re feeling more comfortable and regulated. They’re built for the dojo, but you can take them almost anywhere you wear shorts. Pair them with a Karate gi top for dojo training and drills. Wear them with a t-shirt, tank top, or rash guard for more casual practice or cross-training. Lounge around in a pair at home. You can even take them out on the town for a comfy and casual look. 

ProForce® 5 Oz. Karate Shorts – Lightweight Martial Arts Training Shorts: The newest additions to ProForce’s lineup are these lightweight and breathable Karate shorts. These superstar rookies are made from a 5oz cotton and polyester blend that won’t weight you down and won’t wear down no matter how hard you work or play in them. Their 4-panel gusseted crotch will allow you move freely through your full range of motion. Reinforced seams will help maintain their shape and function over time. And their elastic waistband will keep them exactly where they need to be without causing you any discomfort or distraction. And they’re available in five colors to suit almost any personal style. $24.99-$33.99 USD. 

ProForce® 6 Oz. Karate Shorts: ProForce also offers a more basic Karate shorts design in a slightly heavier cotton and polyester blend. They might not be quite as fancy and functional, but they’ll get the job done in basic training and resting. And they won’t break your bank while they’re helping you beat the heat. $14.99-$23.99 USD.

Muay Thai Shorts

Muay Thai shorts are so hot right now, but they can still help keep your cool during traditional Muay Thai training, fitness kickboxing, festivals, or anywhere else where you want to move, look, and feel your best. 

ProForce Sport® Angel Wing Muay Thai Shorts With Bows: If you want to be on the cutting edge of fashion and function this summer, these stunners from ProForce’s athleisure line, ProForce sport can take you anywhere from the ring to the runway. Their smooth satin fabric, wide cut, elastic waistband, and ”Muay Thai’’ applique are ideal for Muay Thai, kickboxing, and fitness training. And their bows add a cute touch for anyone who wants to hop on the Muay Thai and boxing short trend this season. Available in neon green, white, and light blue. $49.99 USD. 

ProForce Sport® Gold Angel Muay Thai Shorts: If you love all of the style and substance of the above shorts but prefer a slightly more understated look, ProForce Sport also offers the Angel Wing Muay Thai shorts without bows in gold and silver. $49.99 USD. 

ProForce® Muay Thai Shorts: If you prefer a more traditional style, ProForce also has these classic Muay Thai shorts. They also have an extra wide cut and short inseam to allow for high kicks and freedom of movement and a 3” waistband for maximum comfort and stability. They’ll fit in at any Muay Thai gym or any other martial arts facility. And they’re still cool enough to wear as a fashion statement if you’re in the mood. Available in four colorways. $44.99 USD. 

Boxing Shorts

Boxing shorts are also having a moment this summer. And ProForce is ready to meet it with a range of Boxing shorts that will keep you cool in the ring, at the gym, at home, and on the street. 

ProForce Sport® Classic Knee Length Boxing Trunks Blue: ProForce Sport has also brought their athleisure spin to old school boxing trunks. These knee-length shorts are made with a super soft, smooth satin fabric that both looks and feels amazing. They also have an extra wide elastic waistband for comfort and flexibility and an 8” slit to allow for even more freedom of motion. They were designed with boxing, basketball, beachwear, and lounging in mind and they’re very good at all of their jobs. Available in blue, pink, and red. $49.99 USD. 

ProForce® Thunder Satin Boxing Trunk: For a more old school Boxing look, these soft satin Boxing trunks with a 4” elastic drawstring waistband will give you all of the comfort, mobility, and underrated style you need. Available in three colorways. $39.99 USD. 

MMA Shorts

It takes a special type of short to be able to handle everything you throw at it in the cage and every type of training that goes into your mixed martial arts background. These board shorts from ProForce are up to all of the above — and they’re pretty great at the beach and other fun summer spots, too. 

ProForce® Combat MMA Shorts: Made with a lightweight, ultra durable micro-fibre fabric, these board shorts will take you to the championship rounds while feeling as cool as a cucumber. They have all way stretch and a split thigh design to give you unrestricted mobility no matter how high you’re kicking or how powerful your knees are. And their elastic stretch waistband with a reinforced hook loop closure will keep everything where it needs to be so you can focus on doing your best. Available in two color combinations. $49.99 USD. 

ProForce® Thunder Board Shorts: If you’re not into side slits, these shorts offer function and style with traditional closed seams. Made with 100% micro fibre polyester, they offer a soft, breathable feel and help keep you at an ideal body temperature. They’re also water repellant, lighter than cotton, wool, or silk for the ultimate cool. $49.99 USD. 

All Purpose Training Shorts

We’ve looked at shorts designed for specific purposes and martial arts, but what if you’re not sure what you want to do? Or what if you want to do a bit of all of the above while keeping your cool? ProForce has shorts for that, too. 

ProForce Sport® Mystery Mutant Shorts: ProForce Sport even has an athleisure take on the traditional gym short. Made from 100% super soft polyester, they offer extreme comfort for boxing, basketball, beachwear, and almost any other activity you can dream up. And their bold color combination and 8.5” side slits offer extreme style. $39.99 USD. 

ProForce® 5 Oz. Karate Shorts – Lightweight Martial Arts Training Shorts: These shorts are making a repeat performance here because they really are well suited for almost every summer activity. $24.99-$33.99 USD. 

The post Stay Cool This Summer With ProForce Shorts first appeared on AWMA Blog.

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and it’s a big one this year. 

July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. In other words, the United States of America is about to celebrate a huge milestone birthday. And AWMA and ProForce can help you get ready for the party. 

Wether you’re spending this Independence Day at the gym or the BBQ, whether you’re watching fireworks or fights, we have the gear to help you celebrate in style. 

From accessories to clothing to martial arts weapons, let’s look at how you can represent the stars and stripes with a martial arts twist. 

Martial Arts Weapons

Colorful and flashy martial arts weapons designs can draw more attention to your techniques, show off your personal style, and improve your overall game. ProForce’s Stars and Stripes martial arts weapons come with all of the above benefits — with an extra dose of patriotism. 

And they’re good looking enough to double as collectors’ items. So you can enjoy them even if you don’t train or compete with martial arts weapons. 

ProForce® Stars & Stripes Competition Kamas

These sleek, lightweight kamas from ProForce feature 10” hardwood handles, a 7” blade, and a dazzling stars and stripes-inspired design in red, blue, black, and gold colorways. $59.99 USD. 

ProForce® Stars & Stripes Nunchaku

Those same great designs and colorway options are also available on 9” and 11” nunchaku from ProForce. $39.99 USD. 

ProForce® Competition Stars & Stripes Bo Staff

ProForce’s durable and stylish hardwood bo staffs are available in four lengths and red, blue, and black colorways. $59.99 USD.

Stars & Stripes America’s 250th Birthday Edition Samurai Sword

The newest and flashiest addition to ProForce’s patriotic martial arts weapons collection is this stunning limited edition Full Tang sword. Blending timeless samurai craftsmanship with bold American pride, the Stars & Stripes America’s 250th Birthday Edition Samurai Sword features a sharp 1045 steel blade, striking red, white and blue motif, and an eagle-themed tsuba. Supplies are limited, so don’t sleep on getting one for the sword collector — or wielder — in your life. $250.00 USD.

Red, White And Blue Training Gear

Martial artists who don’t train with weapons might not have the same access to specific stars and stripes designs, but you can still build your own patriotic look thanks to AWMA and ProFoce’s wide range of color options in uniforms, gloves, and sparring gear. 

If you want to add a little extra flair, you can also reach out to AWMA’s Custom Services department to come up with an American design of your own.

ProForce® Lightning Gear

ProForce’s popular line of vinyl covered foam sparring gear includes headgear, sparring gloves, and boots. And they all come in red, white, and blue.  $49.99–$59.99 USD.

ProForce® Karate Uniform

This lightweight Karate gi, great for all experience levels, also comes in red, white, and blue. $54.99-$79.99 USD.

PROFORCE® GLADIATOR® “ESSENTIAL” Boxing Gloves

ProForce’s sleek new monochrome boxing gloves series also offers 6oz-16oz gloves in red, white, and blue. $39.99-$49.99 USD.

Apparel 

AWMA has a wide range of USA-themed clothing that is perfect for work, play, or rest this holiday season. So no matter what your plans are, you can comfortably and stylishly show your pride. 

ProForce® USA Blue T-Shirt

Did you know that American Marines, laborers, and movie stars like Marlon Brando all played a role in making the t-shirt the wardrobe staple it is today? You can celebrate the USA’s contributions to fashion and martial arts in this classic USA Karate design from ProForce. And you won’t just look good in this tee, you’ll feel good in it, too. The shirt’s DryBlend fabric helps wick moisture away from your body, which will keep you cool no matter how hot this summer gets. $29.99 USD.

ProForce® USA Grey Hoodie

If July 4 gets too cool where you are, you can also layer up with this equally sharp looking USA Karate hoodie from ProForce. And its durable construction and virtually pill free cotton and polyester blend will keep you soft and cozy for many Independence Days to come. $39.95 USD.

AWMA® USA Karate Baseball Hat

Speaking of the USA’s contributions to fashion, the classic baseball cap design we know and love today was developed by a number of American baseball teams. Its origins date back to the Brooklyn Excelsiors in the mid-1800s. And this design from ProForce does the tradition proud with 6-panel cotton cap and USA Karate embroidered on the front. It also features an adjustable back and comes in six colors, so there’s a look and fit for almost everyone. $19.95 USD.

ProForce Sport® Classic Knee Length Boxing Trunks

If you like the understated vibe, you can complete your look with a pair of soft and stylish boxing trunks from ProForce’s athleisure line, ProForce Sport. These satin shorts were built with boxing, beaches, and lounging in mind and they come in red or blue with white accents. $49.99 USD. 

USA Martial Arts Headband

If quiet and understated isn’t your vibe, you can be loud and proud while rocking this stars and stripes headband all July 4 — and beyond. $9.99 USD. 

Accessories and Other Fun Stuff

AWMA also has a selection of accessories and collectibles to top off your Independence Day fit and decorations. 

USA Gear Bags

AWMA and ProForce have a wide range of gear bags with patriotic designs that will allow you to show off your pride on the way to and from the gym, dojo, or anywhere else you need to carry something. If you’re looking for a solid gear bag featuring ProForce’s traditional USA design, you have five options to choose from. (ProForce® Velocity Duffel Bag, ProForce® Ultra Mesh Sport Bag, Tournament Bag II, Sport Bag II, ProForce® UCV® II Mega Backpack)

For a flashier look, the ProForce® UCV® Mega Backpack also comes in a USA and flag-themed print. And if you want to go all in, the ProForce® USA Duffel Bag is fully decked out in the stars and stripes. $49.99–$124.99 USD.

ProForce® Red, White & Blue Karate Belt

As long as your sensei is cool with it, you can show off your patriotism during more casual training with this 1.75” wide 3 tone Karate belt. Or if you’re feeling bold and creative, you can turn it into a fashion statement. Available in sizes 0-7. $24.99 USD.

Shock Dr. Mouthguard Case Silver Chrome USA Flag

Protect the gear that protects your mouth by wrapping it in the stars and stripes. This mouthguard case from Shock Dr. has extra ventilation to keep your mouthguard fresh and dry, a drip slot to take care of excess moisture, a carabiner clip, and a righteous US flag design. $34.99 USD. 

ProForce® White USA Flags Designer Handwraps

You can also protect your hands and wrists by literally wrapping them in the flag. These 2” wide and 120” long handwraps are made of elasticated cotton that will provide you the blend of flexibility and stability you’ll need to keep everything in place during Boxing, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai. And they look great, too. $17.99 USD.

For a lower key celebration, ProForce’s plain color 180” Stretch Hand Wraps come in red, white, and blue. $14.99 USD. 

USA Flag Patches 

A patch is a cool and affordable way to show off your patriotism. And it’s multipurpose. Patches are great for jackets, hats, bags, and more. If you train in a martial art that allows you to add personal touches to your martial arts uniform like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you can even add it to your gi. 

AWMA offers four unique USA patch designs to help you personalize your look even more. That includes a classic flag, a right sleeve flag, a USA design, and a patch celebrating USA Martial Arts. $2.50–$3.99 USD. 

USA Flag Chrome Pin

For a more understated touch, this small and classy pin goes great with lapels, ties, bags, and more casual wear. For maximum comfort during training, we don’t recommend adding this one to your training gear, though. $2.50 USD.

Karate Man With Flag Keychain USA

This cute little guy can keep your keys in one place while helping you represent your country and your calling. $7.99 USD. 

Patriotic Rubber Ducky 

Have a little fun with one — or all — of these cute American rubber duckies. These 3.5” cuties come in six USA-themed designs, from Uncle Sam to Lady Liberty. Sold individually. $12.99 USD.

The Flag

USA Flag

You can’t go wrong celebrating Independence Day with a flag, and AWMA is offering this 100% polyester  36″ x 60” flag on sale right now. It’s a great way to top off any order. $6.99 USD.

The post Celebrate 250 Years of America With These ProForce Products first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Father’s Day is just around the corner. Let’s celebrate with an AWMA twist! 

The annual holiday dedicated to fathers and father figures is the perfect time to reflect on what fatherhood means to martial arts—and what martial arts can mean to dads. So let’s take a closer look at how martial arts training can help dads be happier and healthier.

And then we’ll take a peak at some martial arts training gear that can help them get started.

What are the benefits of martial arts training for fathers? 

Bonding

Sharing an interest or activity with your kids is a great way to spend quality time with them. It’s a chance to do something you both enjoy, and it gives you something fun to talk about when you’re not actively participating. And martial arts training is full of positive teachable moments for both parents and children. You get learn about teamwork, supporting each other while you work toward your goals, and building community with likeminded people. 

For dads with shy or nervous kids, taking up training yourself might also be a way to give them the confidence boost they need to make the leap. Knowing that they have someone in their corner who is taking those same steps into a new experience can help some kids feel brave enough to try. 

Fitness 

Kids have a lot of energy. Sometimes it can feel like they have way more energy than any adult could ever dream of. A solid fitness training program can help close that gap a little bit. And martial arts is a very fun and effective form of fitness training. 

Martial arts training can help you develop the cardiovascular and muscular strength and endurance you need to keep up with your children longer—and carry them around for longer.

Focus and Mental Discipline

Raising children also requires strong mental fitness. You need to be agile enough to keep up with their active young minds. And you need to think quickly in a lot of high pressure situations. 

Martial arts training is all about developing mental focus and endurance so that you can react calmly and rationally under stress, pressure, and exhaustion. And it teaches you how to manage your emotional responses in intense situations. All of which will make you a more focused, mentally disciplined, and present parent. 

Stress Relief

Having kids isn’t easy. It’s rewarding and magical and wonderful. But like most things that really matter in life, it takes some hard work. Sometimes parents need a break—and a way to blow off some steam. 

Martial arts classes—or even a quick practice session at home—can help! They’re a great option for anyone who is looking to take a short break from life’s demands, work out some frustrations, and enjoy a good endorphin rush. Martial arts training also teaches you how to manage your stress better. Which means you’ll probably end up a little more relaxed and in control in the rest of your life, too. 

Community

Making new friends gets harder as you get older. Making time for friends isn’t easy, either. And those challenges get even bigger when add children to the mix. Martial arts lessons can help you with both of those issues, though. 

Martial arts classes are kind of like multitasking. You get to meet and collaborate with other likeminded people while you’re actively working on your physical and mental health. Even if you don’t have the time or energy to hang our with any of your newfound friends outside of the gym, you’ve still got a built in sense of community that will help you feel less alone in the world.

Positive Role Models

A good martial arts instructor, coach, or sensei can teach you a lot about how to work with other people and help them become their best selves. Great examples for any dad who wants to do their best. 

Father’s Day Gift Guide

Here are some key pieces of martial arts training gear for the martial arts dads and aspiring martial arts dads in your life.

ProForce® Karate Uniform

You can’t go wrong with any ProForce® martial arts uniform. But if you don’t know exactly what weight, style, and color to get for the dad on your list, we recommend this 8 oz. 55/45 Blend Karate uniform with an elastic drawstring. It’s a durable, high quality gi that can withstand the wear and tear of martial arts training. But it’s still light and comfortable enough for anyone who is not used to getting hot and sweaty in long sleeves, pants, and thicker fabrics. Plus it comes with a free belt! $53.99-$97.99 USD.

ProForce® Leatherette Boxing Gloves

If the dad you’re shopping for is more interested in striking-based martial arts and combat sports like Boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, or MMA, you can’t go wrong with any pair of ProForce® Boxing Gloves, either. If you’re not sure what his exact tastes are, though, we suggest a pair of 12 oz ProForce® Leatherette Boxing Gloves.

They’re built to weather the impact of heavy bag work, focus training, sparring, and competition. 12oz is a great weight for anyone who knows they want to punch things, but isn’t sure what their weight class is—or if they want to do any actual fighting yet. And they come in a wide range of colors. That means you can find the perfect pair for any dad’s tastes. $44.99-$59.99 USD.

ProForce® Mats

No matter what discipline your martial arts dad is interested in, a set of ProForce® Mats can make his training more comfortable. This goes for at home training, practice, and cross-training. Mats like the ProForce® Mini Mat can provide a much needed layer of padding between your body and any hard surface during exercise for mat-based work like grappling drills, cardio, bodyweight, and mobility training. For strikers, they can make footwork drills, shadowboxing, and pad work easier on your feet and your flooring. They even help playtime feel better. A set of mats can make floor time with younger kids a bit easier on older joints. $19.95 USD.

The post The Benefits of Martial Arts Training For Fathers first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Spring is finally here! Have you given your martial arts gear the spring cleaning treatment yet?

The weather’s ideal for clearing all of the literal and metaphorical cobwebs that built up over the winter months. New flowers are blooming and reminding us all about fresh starts and renewals. And martial artists are starting to prepare for a new season of tournaments. It’s the perfect time to give your gear a refresh, too.

To help, we’ve put together this easy-to-follow guide to Martial Arts Gear Spring Cleaning. Let’s take a look at what needs cleaning, repairing, and replacing, and how to do it.

1. Unpack your gear and let it breathe.

The first thing you’ll need to do is make a proper assessment of all of your gear. Haul it all out. That includes everything from the smallest accessories like hand wraps to sparring gear to the bags you use for storage and transport. If you have a training space at home with bigger equipment like a training bag or strike shields, you can apply this process to them, too.

And then let it air out for a while. It’s good for the gear and might save you from any overwhelming stale smells during the rest of the spring cleaning process. 

2. Get cleaning.

Launder any fabric gear like uniforms and clothing. Put your hand wraps in a wash bag and add them to the load. Some cloth gear like forearm, knee, shin and instep guards can also go in this load, as long as you use garment bags and a more delicate cycle, but you can give them a surface clean instead if you’re not sure. The same goes for your gear bags. 

Thoroughly wipe and scrub the outside surface of any foam, vinyl, or leather gear with an appropriate cleanser. Clean the inside and outsides of any MMA, Boxing, or sparring gloves. 

Brush your mouthguard and wash its case.

For more detailed tips on how to clean your martial arts gear and what to clean it with, check out our blogs on proper uniform care and gear care. 

3. Start sorting.

Once you have a clear idea of everything that you have, it’s time to start figuring out what you want to keep. 

On your first pass, focus on what’s still fit for training. Any uniforms or clothing that had become too worn out for regular training can be tossed or repurposed for rags. (Or saved for sentimental value if they were particularly important to your training journey.) The same goes for any gloves, sparring gear, protective gear, and focus training gear that’s staring to lose its padding or showing other signs of wear that are beyond repair. Put anything with smaller, more fixable issues in a separate pile. We’ll get to them in the next step.

The second pass is about figuring out what’s still right for your training in particular. Try on any uniforms, clothing, and protective gear that you haven’t worn in a while and make sure that it still fits properly and comfortably. Donate or store anything that doesn’t.

Finally, it’s time to start thinking about what you actually like. Do you have any gear for martial arts or cross-training that you don’t participate in anymore? Does the texture of a certain piece of clothing or sparring gear bother you when you train in it? Is there something about a certain piece of gear that has never felt perfectly right when you wear it and distracts you from performing to the best of your abilities? Or just makes training less enjoyable? Is the color or style just not you? Maybe it’s time to find a new home for that gear and find yourself something that’s a better match for your current training needs and tastes. 

4. Get the fix in.

Now it’s time to take a closer look at your repair pile. 

If you know how to sew, you can mend any small rips, tears, or fraying seams by hand. Or ask a friend who does know to help you out.

For bigger jobs, it might be worth it to take it to the pros. Alteration and repair shops are a solid option for any uniform or clothing issues. They can also hem any pant legs and sleeves that are too long for you. And if you participate in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, they can help you any new patches you need or want on your gi, as well.

For leather gloves or equipment repair, we recommend asking your instructors if they have any recommendations first. In a pinch, though, many shoe repair stores are willing to work with leather sports gear.

5. Fill the holes in your gear game.

We’ve taken care of the out with the old part. Now it’s time for some in with the new. 

Once you’ve cleared out everything that doesn’t fit you or your current training needs, you can start to look for the gear that does. 

If you got rid of an old uniform because it was too worn out or just didn’t work for you anymore, start browsing AWMA.com to find the style, size, weight, weave, and color you’re looking for. AWMA also has a wide selection of clothing, accessories, Boxing, and Muay Thai shorts to round out the rest of your martial arts wardrobe. 

If you noticed any issues with the padding or construction of your boxing gloves, start looking for the perfect replacement. Have you been noticing that your hand wraps aren’t quite as elastic as they used to be? Get a new pair or two. 

And if you happen to see something else you like while you’re on AWMA.com? Well, you did just make some new space in your closet. You can go ahead and fill it with a little treat. 

The post How To Spring Clean Your Martial Arts Gear first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Spring has officially sprung. Leaves and flowers are starting to pop up — and so are more martial arts tournaments. 

If you’re participating in any martial arts competitions over the spring and summer tournament season, you’ve already done the hardest parts. You’ve taken the leap and committed to testing yourself against your fellow martial artists. You’ve put in all of the time and effort to be the best possible version of yourself on tournament day. Now all you need to do is start to taper your training and make sure your body, mind, and gear are in the best shape possible for the big event. 

We’re here to help you with that last point. 

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a competition rookie, here’s the gear that will help you get the most out of your spring and summer tournaments. 

The Right Martial Arts Uniform 

If you’re competing in Karate, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Tae Kwon Do, or any other martial arts tournament that requires a specific uniform, the first thing you’ll need to do is make sure that you have the right uniform for the job, such as a gi or dubok that meets all of the tournament’s requirements and your own needs as a martial artist. 

To find this perfect martial arts uniform, start by researching the rules of the tournaments you’re planning to participate in. Make notes of what they say about size, fit, and any other concerns. Then make a list of potential uniforms that meet those standards. 

Once you know what uniforms you can wear in your tournaments, you can start to figure out which one you want to compete in. Think about what you like in terms of comfort, style, fabric weave and weight, and pick the uniform that best fits your preferences. 

Protective Gear

When you’re done your uniform research, take a look at what the rules have to say about protective gear or sparring gear like mouth guards, chest guards, shin guards, foot protectors, gloves, and groin guards. Make note of what’s required, what’s recommended, and what’s not allowed. These rules can vary by organization and martial art, so it’s important to doublecheck before every tournament. 

Once you know what you need, you can start to pick out the types, models, and styles that work best for you. Then you can start to think about whether or not you want to use the recommended gear and think about what types of that gear you prefer. After that, it’s time to consider anything else that might help you feel more supported and comfortable so that you can focus on doing your absolute best on the big day. 

Once you’ve made all of your choices and assembled all of the right sparring gear, it’s time to take it out for a spin. Take any new and unfamiliar sparring gear out for a few trial run during your training to make sure everything fits and is in working order — and that you feel comfortable using it. 

Martial Arts Weapons

Karateka who are competing in weapons kata, creative forms, or events in extreme divisions will also need to get their martial arts weapons in order for competition.

You can follow the same general process to select the perfect martial arts weapons for tournament season. Make sure what weapons meet your competition’s regulations, then start to look at which models and styles best fit your needs and preferences as a martial artist. Which makes and models do you feel most comfortable using when you’re training? Is there a design that will help to highlight your techniques? Is there a specific design or color you like that might help you feel more confident on the big day?

If the answer to all of the above is a martial arts weapon that you’re already training with, you are good to go. If you need to invest in a new bo, kama, sai, sword, or nunchaku, we recommend incorporating the new weapons into your training so that you know exactly how to handle them and will be comfortable using them to the best of your abilities on competition day. 

A Water Bottle

Proper hydration plays an important part in a martial artist’s overall health and performance. To make sure that you’re feeling and doing your best on competition day, make sure that you have a water bottle like the Classic Revolve Bottle handy at all times. And don’t forget to actually use it!

A Gear Bag

A good gear bag is the unsung hero of a successful tournament season. You might not be able to carry it into actual battle, but it will carry all of the things you need have the best showing possible in those battles. 

The ideal tournament gear bag should be big enough to hold all of your gear and any extras you’ll need, like snacks, a change of clothes, your phone, and other personal items. It should also have a number of easily accessible compartments so that you can find everything you’ll need as fast as possible. Having exactly what you need and knowing exactly where it is can help to reduce your stress during competitions and allow you to better focus on your performance. 

The post Get Ready For Tournament Season With These Martial Arts Essentials first appeared on AWMA Blog.

One of the most interesting figures in Mixed Martial Arts history is coming to the big screen.

Variety recently announced that a biopic about Georges St-Pierre is currently in development.

“We have been considering telling my story for a moment now, and when we found this team it was clear to us that we wanted this to be told in a new creative way,” the multi-time UFC welterweight and middleweight champion said in a statement. 

According to Thomas Soto, the Quebecois filmmaker who has signed on to direct, this film will explore St-Pierre’s history both in and outside of the Ocatgon. “I want to tell the story of Georges behind GSP in a way that feels intimate, honest and deeply human. To me, bringing that story to the world is both a privilege and a responsibility,” he said.

The project is still in its early stages. It sounds like it will be a while before we get more details about the plot, cast, and title. But here are 10 martial arts and combat sports-related biopics to keep us busy while we wait for GSP’s life story to get the Hollywood treatment. 

Ali

It would take a whole series of films to properly explore Muhammad Ali’s life and his contributions to boxing — and the world in general. But this 2001 film starring Will Smith and directed and co-written by Michael Mann does a great job of tackling a specific era in his greater story. Following its title character from his history and career-making win over Sonny Liston in 1964 to the famous 1974 Rumble in the Jungle against George Foreman, Ali is a portrait of the greatest of all time in his prime. 

Christy

It girl Sydney Sweeney traded glamor for gloves when she stepped in the ring to play American women’s boxing trailblazer Christy Martin. This 2025 drama follows Martin through the highs of her history-making rise to the top of the boxing world in the 1990s and some of the struggles she’s faced both in and out of the ring. 

Cinderella Man

In this Oscar nominated drama based on a true story, Russel Crowe plays Irish American boxer James J. Braddock, a light heavyweight prospect who fights his way back from a career-ending injury to he top of the American boxing world during the great depression. 

Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story

Hollywood really loves a good boxing biopic. We’ve got a few more of them coming up on this list. But there are some good films that explore the life and times of fighters who train and compete in other disciplines, too. For example, Jeet Kune Do and its founder, the legendary Bruce Lee himself, got the inspired-by-a-true-story treatment in this 1993 drama about Lee’s rise to stardom as a martial artist and actor. 

The Fire Inside

Biographical dramas are often reserved for historical figures and people in the later stages of their lives and work. But when you’re as accomplished as boxer, mixed martial artist, and Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields, you can get the biopic treatment while you’re still the pound-for-pound best active women’s boxer in the world. This 2024 drama starring Ryan Destiny celebrates Shields’s significant triumphs in the ring without shying away from the significant challenges she’s faced to while working toward those victories. 

The Hurricane

Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter was a middleweight boxer on the verge of greatness when he was wrongly charged and convicted of murder in 1966. This 1999 drama starring Denzel Washington as The Hurricane tells the story of how a group of activists helped to free him and clear his name. The movie also did its part to introduce new generations of boxing fans to his work and bring Carter a little bit of the recognition and celebration that was denied to him for so many years. 

Ip Man

It’s not the most accurate or realistic film on this list and it’s technically more of an action film than a biographical drama, but this instant classic that launched an entire franchise is too good to ignore. Even if it takes a number of liberties with the Wing Chun grandmaster’s story, it does his martial art and his teachings proud. And Donnie Yen, a martial arts legend in his own right, shines in the tile role. 

Mary Kom

Mary Kom is a barrier-breaking legend at home in India and one of the most decorated pugilists in the world today. She holds eight world championship medals — which is more than any other man or woman in boxing — and a bronze from 2012 Olympic games. It would take at least an entire television season to properly track all of her achievements, but this 2014 biopic starring Priyanka Chopra does a good job of presenting her journey to the top of the 2008 AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships.

Raging Bull

Robert De Niro was so fascinated by former middleweight boxing champ Jake LaMotta’s memoir that he recommended it to Martin Scorsese. The legendary director wasn’t much of a boxing fan at the time and wasn’t sure he was the person to make this kind of film, but he eventually saw the light. And made a serious contender for best boxing film of all time.

The Smashing Machine

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson was so committed to his portrayal of UFC veteran Mark Kerr in last year’s The Smashing Machine that he actually took up mixed martial arts training as part of his preparation. He even trained with the real Mark Kerr. 

The post Watch These 10 Great Martial Arts Biopics first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Martial arts training can be beneficial for a lot of autistic people. 

Training provides structure and routine. It also provides an opportunity to form friendships and community with likeminded people. Physical activity can help with stress relief and working through aggression and frustration in a productive way and technique training can help improve focus and the mind-body connection. And everything from the techniques themselves to the history of martial arts is fascinating, which makes them appealing for autistic people who really want to dig into and learn everything they can about their special interests.

Martial arts training can also be a challenge for a lot of autistic people. 

The sounds, textures, bright overhead lights, and smells that come along with group training in a dojo setting can be difficult for anyone who has sensory issues. Group classes can be intimidating and hard to navigate for people who have atypical social skills. The intricacies of some techniques and the pace of group classes can be frustrating for people who have issues with physical activity and coordination. 

Finding the right balance between the good and the not-so-good parts can also be a challenge. But it is possible. All you need is a lot of research, the right learning environment, and the right gear.

To celebrate Autism Awareness Month, here are some tips that can help autistic people and parents of autistic children maximize the benefits and minimize the downsides of martial arts training. 

Find the right fit for your training.

There’s a popular saying in the autism community that if you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism. Everyone on the spectrum has their own needs, strengths, and interests. So the process of choosing the best martial art for yourself or your child is going to look a little different for each autistic martial artist. But there are some general ideas that can help you on your individual journey:

Find the right martial art.

Make an honest assessment of your goals and your needs. What is it that you really want to get out of your training? Are there certain kinds of training that might be more challenging for you? What could make certain types of training more comfortable or appealing? What accommodations will you require? Are you able to step out of your comfort zone at all, or is that beyond your capacity at the moment? Are you willing to attempt contact training, or is parallel play-type training a better fit for you? 

Once you have a solid idea of what you want and need out of martial arts training, you can start to look into different martial arts and figure out which discipline would make the best match. For example, someone who interested in breaking down intricate techniques and repeating patterns but is unsure about full or semi-contact practice could benefit from Karate training that focuses on Kata. Or more fitness-focused Boxing, Muay Thai, or Kickboxing drills that don’t involve a sparring component. Sensory seekers might get a lot out of the physical contact and pressure involved in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu technique training and rolling, while people who are more sensory avoiding might find this type of martial arts practice a bit overwhelming. 

Finding the right format. 

Once you know which martial art you or your child wants to try, it’s time to start thinking about the best way to learn it. 

Group classes are the most obvious choice. They’re usually the most budget-friendly option and they come with a built-in group of training partners and community members. But the sounds and smells and social dynamics can be a lot to handle. For some people, it will be worth the risk and extra challenge. But some autistic students might need to consider alternate options. 

Private or semi-private training are good options for autistic students who want — and can handle — a more traditional training setting when it’s slightly quieter and less overstimulating. Working in small groups or one-on-one with a trainer can also be helpful for any students who have dyspraxia or other issues with physical coordination. It gives them a chance to work at their own pace without having to worry about holding anyone else back or being watched. 

Small group or private training isn’t an option for everyone, though. But even if you can’t afford or manage to train in a more formal environment it doesn’t mean that you have to give up on your martial arts dreams entirely. You can start small on your own. Invest in a set of mats and a uniform or basic gear like boxing gloves to get started. Find a good instructional video — or a book, depending on what type of learning works best for your brain — and practice a few techniques on your own and your own pace. 

Find the right fit for your gear.

There are some things that all martial artists have to consider when they’re buying training gear. Does it fit? Is it the right type of gear for my martial art? Will it last? Will it provide the right support and comfort so that I can focus on being the best martial artist I can be?

If you have sensory issues, you will also have to consider variables like texture, weight, and compression in your selection process. 

For example, conventional thinking says that heavier weight Karate, Judo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gis are a good investment because they’re more durable and more like the type of uniforms that you’d wear for tournaments and competitions. But some people will find heavier weight weaves to be a little scratchy. They can also get uncomfortable and constricting when they start to get sweaty. In those cases, a softer and lighter weight uniform could be a much better option. A pair of Hy-Gens 2 Shoes might come in handy for any autistic people who struggle with unexpected textures touching their feet.

For autistic strikers, finding the right hand wraps can be a make or break decision. A pair with just the right texture and the right amount of stretch can provide all of the necessary support for pad and heavy bag work and a level of compression that can ground you and ease excess anxiety during training. 

For more gear suggestions, check out our blog post 5 Gear Tips For Autistic Martial Artists.

Be Patient—And Don’t Beat Yourself Up

Finding the right fit for an autistic martial artist isn’t always an easy process, and you’re probably going to have to deal with a lot of trial and error along the way. But the good news is that learning from your mistakes and getting back up again is all part of the martial arts journey. 

The post How To Get The Most Out of Martial Arts Training When You’re Autistic first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Is there a more iconic martial arts weapon than a sword?

The katana is a classic for a reason. It’s as beautiful as it is deadly. It’s been at the heart of some of cinema’s most elegant action sequences and history’s most brutal battles. 

Swords are also an extremely versatile martial arts weapon. You’ll find them wielded by a wide range of people in a wide range of fields, such as for techniques in Karate demos, stunt work, and Kendo. They’re beloved by everyone from seasoned experts to weekend warriors to collectors and featured everywhere from the silver screen to the local dojo to gallery walls. 

And with a little creativity, we can make the katana go even more places and do even more things. 

Here are 5 ways to get the most out of your martial arts sword. 

Martial Arts

The preferred martial arts weapon of everyone from ancient samurai and ninjas to modern day Kenjutsu practitioners and Karateka is very good at its main gig. 

There are a number of ways that you can use katana and swords in your martial arts training. First, you can train in a martial art with a focus on katana techniques. That includes Kenjutsu (the umbrella term for schools of Japanese sword disciplines that have a focus on traditional techniques and real world scenarios), Kendo (the modern Japanese martial art that descends from Kenjutsu), Aikido, and Ninjustu. 

You can also incorporate swords into your existing martial arts training without making it a primary focus. In some cases, you can actually make it an extension of your current training. Karate, for example, isn’t all about the katana, but there are kata that you can practice and perform with a katana. If you’re really keen, you can participate in tournaments and demonstrations with your katana and your katana techniques. 

Even if your martial arts discipline doesn’t involve any swordsmanship at all, though, you could still use katana techniques as a form of cross-training. An MMA fighter is never going to need a sword in the cage, but they could use the improved hand-eye coordination, focus, and body awareness that comes from working with a training sword in their spare time. 

Fitness

You don’t have to be a martial artist to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of sword training, though. There’s no reason that fitness buffs, instructors, and personal trainers can’t incorporate some martial arts-inspired moves into their routines. People who don’t enjoy exercise and are looking for a new and fun way to get their bodies moving might enjoy a little sword play, too. 

Adding a few basic katana techniques into your workout can help you improve your cardio, muscular tone, muscular endurance, reaction time, mental focus, and more. All you need to get started is enough space to swing a sword around in, basic body awareness (so that you don’t swing your sword into anything), and a good sword for beginners. We recommend starting with a wood or foam model. 

Performing Arts

There’s a reason that the katana has achieved such iconic status in the arts. It’s a stunning and dramatic weapon, and almost everything you can do with it looks good on camera or on stage. 

You have a couple options if you want to use swords in the performing arts. First, you can go the more traditional route, and learn stage combat or stunt work. This will give you a solid foundation of tried and true methods for performing with swords for theatre, film, and television. 

But there’s no reason you can’t also experiment with sword work in your art on your own — as long you’re responsible and safe. Take some lessons from a trusted martial arts school near you or teach yourself a few basic techniques and see how they might apply to everything from dance to staged sword battles during heavy metal concerts. 

Meditation

This one might sound a little weird if you’re not already familiar with sword-based mind-body training. Swords are usually pretty intense instruments, after all.

But there is actually a long history of practices that focus on the calmer side of sword wielding. Tai Chi, for example, incorporates the sword into many of its techniques. These moves focus on moving gracefully with great strength and control, making them an excellent workout for the mind as well as the body. 

So if you’re looking for a new meditation method — or you’d love to meditate, but haven’t clicked with anything you’ve tried so far — maybe it’s time to pick up a sword. 

Collecting and Art

Swords are beautiful. Even the simplest model has a certain elegance to it. And once you start adding details to the blade, handle, and sheath, you have some genuine works of art on your hands. There’s a reason why people who have no desire to swing a sword themselves still love to collect and display them. 

The post 5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of Your Sword first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Martial arts probably aren’t the first thing that come to mind when you think of St. Patrick’s Day.

The cultural holiday that marks the death of the patron saint of Ireland is more commonly associated with parades, feasts, music, bars, and shamrocks. But Ireland also has a rich martial arts tradition of its own — and a rich tradition of martial artists and combat athletes who have fought all over the world. There’s no reason that a celebration of all things Irish shouldn’t include a little Irish martial arts.

In that spirit, let’s see what kind of AWMA spin we can put on this March 17. 

Practice Traditional Irish Martial Arts

Irish martial arts like Bataireacht might not have the international recognition of some of their counterparts like traditional Okinawan martial arts, but they’re just as interesting. And they’re just as important to their home country’s history and identity. Learning a little more about them — or even learning a technique or two — could be a fascinating and rewarding way to celebrate this St. Patrick’s Day. 

Bataireacht’s origins in the 16th century will probably sound familiar to anyone who knows about martial arts history in general: An occupying force banned a population from using weapons, and those people responded by using whatever tools they had on hand to defend themselves. In this case, the occupiers were the British and the weapon was a stick called the shillelagh, which could be disguised as a cane. 

Early Bataireacht practitioners developed a complex blend of boxing, fencing, and wrestling techniques where they would use the shillelagh to execute a broad series of strikes and parries. The martial art continued to develop and spread until it became a casualty of the Great Irish Famine in the mid-1800s.

But Bataireacht’s story doesn’t end there. As reported in the BBC and Irish Central, the martial art is currently enjoying a revival thanks to the efforts of Irish martial artists and their students across the world. 

(If you don’t have a shillelagh at your disposal, you could also try using Escrima sticks or a bo to practice some basic Bataireacht techniques.)

Celebrate Irish Martial Artists

You don’t have to wield a shillelagh to celebrate Irish martial arts, though. Ireland has also left its mark on a number of other disciplines and combat sports all over the world, thanks to the efforts of its homegrown fighters. 

Here’s a quick look at five Irish fighters worth celebrating this St. Patrick’s Day to get you started: 

Aisling Daly: The Ultimate Fighter star and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt was the first Irish woman to win a fight in the UFC. Her groundbreaking MMA career also included fights in Invicta FC, Bellator, and Cage Warriors. 

Benjamin Fletcher: The British born Judo star began representing Ireland in 2017 and became the first judoka representing Ireland to win an IJF World Judo Tour in Tunis a year later. He is a multi-time IJF Grand Prix and IJF Grand Slam medalist.

Joe Duffy: Although he retired at the beginning of the decade, Joseph “Irish Joe” Duffy remains one of Ireland’s most beloved fighters. In his prime, he was also one of the country’s toughest. The The Ultimate Fighter: Team GSP vs. Team Koscheck star racked up a 16-5 record in his MMA career and was undefeated in both professional Boxing and Kickboxing. 

Nonpareil Jack Dempsey: This Irish-born American boxer came by the nickname “Nonpareil” honestly enough. He was almost unbeatable in his prime, with a record of 51 official wins (and another 52 unofficial ones) and only 3 losses. In 1884, he became the first boxer to hold the World Middleweight Championship. And he continued to defend it until 1891. 

Sinead Kavanagh: This five-time national boxing champion turned professional mixed martial artist currently competes in Bellator MMA’s Women’s Featherweight division. In addition to her decorated past in boxing, she also has a background in Karate and Kickboxing. 

Wear Green

It’s a little basic, but wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day is a classic for a reason. Green’s a great color! Everyone looks good in it! It’s a way to participate in the day without having to put too much extra energy and effort into it! 

As luck would have it, green is also one of ProForce’s signature colors, so we have a lot of green martial arts clothing and gear that you can wear and train in this March 17. Here’s just a taste: 

Green Clothing: If you want to go big and bright, ProForce Sport® Angel Wing Muay Thai Shorts come in an eye-popping neon green. If you prefer your shorts a little longer and baggier, ProForce Sport® Mystery Mutant Shorts come in a sweet purple and lime color combo. And if you’re more into muted shades with green accents, there’s the black with neon green ProForce Sport® 8 Oz. Combat Pants or the black with neon green ProForce Sport® Logo Sweatshirt. 

Green Training and Sparring Gear: ProForce’s Lightning sparring gear series, including Sparring Gloves, Ultra Lightning Kick shoes, and Sparring Head Gear, all come in a smashing green. You can also box in green, thanks to ProForce Sport’s bold green Mutant Chainlink Ninja Boxing Gloves. You can even protect your hands with neon green hand wraps and your mouth with a green mouth guard. 

Green Martial Arts Weapons: ProForce Champion Kama, Super Speedchucks, and Competition Bo Staff all come in green if you want to do a little fighting with your Irish celebrations. 

The post Fighting Irish: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day The AWMA Way first appeared on AWMA Blog.

There’s a new addition to the ProForce® boxing glove family.

PROFORCE® GLADIATOR® “ESSENTIAL” Boxing Gloves, available in six sizes and four colors, have all of the quality and durability that you’ve come to expect from ProForce®, with a sleek new monochromatic spin. They can help you train like a pro and look like a fashionista with a taste for minimalism. 

That’s already an impressive combo for a humble pair of boxing gloves, but with a little creativity, they can do even more for you.

Here are five ways to get the most out of your PROFORCE® GLADIATOR® “ESSENTIAL” Boxing Gloves. 

Martial Arts and Combat Sports

Obviously a great pair of boxing gloves is going to be a great fit for boxing. And kickboxing. And Muay Thai. Even some MMA training. 

Basically, if you train in a martial art or combat sport that involves punching, PROFORCE® GLADIATOR® “ESSENTIAL” Boxing Gloves are for you. They’re strong enough for almost every skill and power level, resilient enough for daily training, affordable enough for any budget, and with a wide range of weight and color options, there’s a glove for every size and style. 

These sturdy, no nonsense gloves deliver exactly what fighters and gyms need: reliable protection, comfort, and durability with no unnecessary extras. They feature a synthetic leather shell for durability, closed-cell, form-fit foam for consistent impact absorption, and reinforced seams for long-lasting performance. 

PROFORCE® GLADIATOR® “ESSENTIAL” Boxing Gloves are also designed with maximum comfort, support, and function in mind. The integrated Thumb-Lok enhances safety. Foam palm grip bars promote proper fist alignment. 2 inch wrist wraps with secure hoop-and-loop closures provide solid wrist support. A smooth satin liner adds comfort for those extended training sessions. And vented palms with Ultra Channelling Ventilation help keep your hands cooler no matter how intense your workouts get. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, these gloves are ideal for anyone who wants dependable essential training gear. 

Boxercise And Other Fitness Training

Everything that makes PROFORCE® GLADIATOR® “ESSENTIAL” Boxing Gloves an excellent choice for combat also makes them a great choice for a wide range of non-contact activities. 

Take them to your Boxercise, or fitness kickboxing classes. If your gym has a heavy bag, BOB XL, or other freestanding bag, bring a pair along in your bag and go a few rounds to improve your cardio, strength, and conditioning. Even if your gym doesn’t have any equipment you can hit, you can still get a good cardio and muscle toning workout by taking a pair into the studio and wearing them for shadowboxing. 

Whatever kind of martial arts-influenced fitness routine you choose, these gloves will give you the support, comfort, and breathability you need to feel your best at the gym. 

And it you’re into having a nice fit while looking fit, you can complete your look with these understated and stylish gloves.

At Home Exercise

A pair of basic, functional, and economical boxing gloves like PROFORCE® GLADIATOR® “ESSENTIAL” Boxing Gloves are also a solid option for any training you’re doing outside of a traditional gym setting. 

If you’re looking to add any kind of striking-based equipment to your home gym, they’re a great option for almost any space and budget. They work well with heavy bags, freestanding bags, speed bags, strike shields, or any smaller focus targets. And if you don’t have the room for any bigger equipment, the gloves alone can still give you a good at-home workout. Clear a few feet of floorspace, put on an old school Tae Bo or cardio kick video and try doing the whole routine with a pair on. They might feel light when you first pick them up, but those extra ounces will get your muscles and lungs working harder after a few punches. 

Promotion and Branding

A sleek monochrome glove can also make an effective blank canvas. Designs really pop on the backs of the beauties. And a good looking pair of boxing gloves with a good looking logo are like a powerful one-two punch: a great product and a great marketing tool. 

If you run a gym or team, boxing gloves with your logo on them can help to cultivate your students’ sense of community and loyalty. And if you run a martial arts business, they’re a fun and creative way to increase brand awareness. If you’re looking for a new revenue stream, you can even sell your branded gloves.

And the best part is that AWMA can take care of everything from the gloves to the design, thanks to our in house custom Boxing, MMA, and Cardio Glove service. Contact us to get started. 

Art and Design

Martial arts organizations and businesses don’t have to have all of the fun, though. If you have a cool idea for a design that you want to put on a minimum order of 72 pairs of PROFORCE® GLADIATOR® “ESSENTIAL” Boxing Gloves, you can make cool and stylish custom boxing gloves for art’s sake. They could also make a unique merch item for any artists looking to diversify their offerings. 

And while we’re on the topic of art and boxing gloves, we recommend checking out our own ProForce Sport’s Ballet And Bows Boxing Gloves and Mutant Chainlink Ninja Boxing Gloves for inspiration. 

The post 5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of Your ‘Essential’ Boxing Gloves first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Valentine’s Day is almost here again. How are you celebrating? And who are you celebrating with?

Romantic love might be the primary focus of February 14, but that doesn’t have to be the only way to mark the day. Valentine’s can be about any kind of love you want to celebrate, whether that’s friends, family, or pets,. Or even the activities and things that give your life meaning. Like martial arts, for example.

So if you’re looking for an alternative way to get in on the festivities—or a way to spread even more love in general—here are 10 ways that you can celebrate your deep affection for martial arts this Valentine’s Day. And every other day of the year. 

Try some partner drills.

What better way to celebrate your love of martial arts than to train or spar with someone else who shares it? Or someone who wants to learn more? Whether you’re going toe to toe with another seasoned martial artist or working through the basics with a friend who has never thrown a punch before, partner drills are a great bonding experience. Here are five partner drills from the AWMA Blog to get you started. 

Teach someone a move.

Sharing is caring, after all. Showing someone a new technique or trading a few tips is way to share your love of martial arts that can benefit everyone involved. Your student gains a new skill—and they get to learn a little bit about your own passion for martial arts along the way. And you get to improve right along with them, because teaching someone else is one of the best learning experiences of all.

Give the gift of gear.

Treat a martial artist friend with a piece of your favorite training gear. It doesn’t have to be a big present. Sure, you can go all out and order them your favorite uniform or boxing gloves if you have the funds. But even a little gift like a set of hand wraps that have changed your Boxing or Muay Thai game for the better can let them know you care—and maybe improve their training for the better, too.

You can also share some gear and clothing with people outside of the martial arts bubble. Let them know how comfortable and stylish martial arts wear can be with a soft and cool pair of gi pants or Muay Thai shorts. 

Watch a martial arts movie.

Share a favorite flick with someone who loves it as much as you do. Or show it to someone for the first time. Either way, enjoying a good action movie with a friend, loved one, or training partner is an excellent way to celebrate the skill and artistry that goes into martial arts-influenced stunt work.

Break down your favorite fight scene. 

If you want to geek out a little, you can take the movie watching experience further and get into a specific fight scene you really love. Talk about the moments that make it work for you. Point out the techniques you recognize from your own training. If you’ve got a willing training partner, you can even try to recreate parts of it the next time you’re at the gym together. Just don’t try any death defying Jackie Chan-style stunts without proper training and supervision!

Send martial arts valentines to your training partners and instructors. 

You don’t have to break out the paper hearts, unless you really want to. But a quick note, text, or chat after class is an easy and effective way to let your fellow martial artists know that you care. Tell a training partner how much you enjoy working together. Thank an instructor or coach for everything you’ve learned from them. Or tell a rival how much they’ve inspired you to keep pushing yourself.

Invite a friend to your next tournament.

If you know someone from your life outside of the gym who has expressed interest in your training, why not see if they want to tag along to your next competition? It gives you a chance to show off a little, get some extra moral support, and introduce them to your world. And it’s a chance for them to see some really cool martial arts skills on display. 

Invite a friend to visit your gym

And if you know someone who is extra curious, you can also invite them to your gym for a trial class. They’ll have a chance to try new things and learn new skills. And you’ll have a chance to share something that’s really important to you. Worst case, you have a fun one off class together. Best case? You get a new training partner. 

Go to a friend’s gym.

If you have friends who train in different disciplines, you can also share in their martial arts love. Ask them to show you a technique or two. Visit their gym for a trial lesson. Go watch their tournaments. You can learn more about something that matters to someone who matters to you and discover a new type of cross-training.

Host an open mat. 

If you have the room at home, put down a set of jigsaw mats and invite a few friends over. If you don’t, see if you can book a studio in your condo or your local gym. Then invite a few friends over for an open mat. It’s a chance to bond over your shared love of martial arts—and maybe pick up a few cool new tips and techniques along the way

The post 10 Ways To Share Your Love of Martial Arts This Valentine’s Day first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Oh, the weather outside is still pretty frightful. But a winter workout can still be delightful—as long you’ve got the right gear.

Wether you’re running in the great outdoors during a snowstorm or working out in a gym that’s a little chillier than usual, winter training can be a mixed bag. The crisp air can be refreshing and good for focus. It’s also helpful if you get distracted by too much heat and sweat during physical exercise. But it does make staying warm—which is necessary if you want to perform to the best of your abilities and reduce your risk of injury—a challenge. The right training gear can help you get all of the benefits of cold weather training while avoiding the downsides. 

Here are 6 products from AWMA.com that will help you find that perfect balance this winter. 

ProForce® II Long Sleeve Rash Guard

Properly dressing for a cold weather workout is all about the layering. If you’re exercising in the great outdoors, wearing a base layer that’s absorbent and tight to your skin like the ProForce® II Long Sleeve Rash Guard under your sweats and jackets can help keep your core warm while you’re braving the elements. And if your indoor exercise space is colder than you’d prefer, a long sleeve rash guard can help there, too. Slip it on under your martial arts uniform or wear it with your Boxing, Muay Thai, or grappling shorts to help you get warm and stay warm during training. 

Hayabusa Geo Jiu Jitsu Spats

Layering isn’t just for your top half, Adding a tight and moisture absorbing layer like a pair of Hayabusa Geo Jiu Jitsu Spats under your tights can also help you regulate your temperature during outdoor exercise. Wearing a pair under your gi pants, MMA shorts, or Boxing shorts can also help you stay warmer and more regulated during indoor training. And if you get too warm, you can always train in the spats on their own, because they’re designed to keep you covered and comfortable during even the toughest grappling training. 

ProForce Sport® Chain Link Ninja Hoodie Mocha

Adding an extra layer on top of your usual workout gear can also help you regulate your temperature during cold weather exercise. For example, wearing a sweatshirt or hoodie like the ProForce Sport® Chain Link Ninja Hoodie over your usual gear can help keep your resting body temperature a little higher on your way from the change room to the mats, ring, studio, or other training spaces and during the early stages of your workout. That means you won’t have to thaw out before you start to warm up. Once you’re warm enough and ready to go, you can take off the extra layer. And if you’re still chilly, you can keep the hoodie on for the rest of your workout, too.

ProForce® 14 Oz. Diamond Karate Uniform

Heavy weight martial arts uniforms like the ProForce® 14 Oz. Diamond Karate Uniform were designed with durability in mind. The thicker fabric and intricate weaves in these types of gis are built to withstand the wear and tear of vigorous training and competition. As an added bonus, heavier weight uniforms also come in pretty handy when the temperature starts to drop. Even if you don’t go that hard, switching to a thicker gi for the winter months can keep you a little warmer and more comfortable during your Karate, BJJ, Taekwondo, and Tang Soo Do training. 

Hy-Gens 2 Shoe

There are a lot of benefits to barefoot training in martial arts. It’s great for proprioception and balance. If you’re training to compete, practicing in bare feet also helps you prepare for the exact conditions you’ll be competing under. But a cold mat or ring canvas can be unpleasant—or even painful—on the soles of your feet. If you’re struggling with that sensation and your cold feet are throwing you off your game, a pair of Hy-Gens 2 Shoes can keep your toes toastier. These snug fitting and flexible neoprene shoes with non-slip soles were designed to help students avoid skin issues and mat burn, but they can also give you an extra layer of protection against mat freeze. 

ProForce® Beanie

Modern studies suggest that we’re not losing as much heat through our heads as we thought. It’s more like 10% of heat that escapes that way as opposed to 50%. But keeping your head warm still does its part to keep your whole body warm when you’re training in colder temperatures. That’s why a warm and snug-fitting head covering like the ProForce® Beanie is a great addition to your outdoor exercise outfit. It will keep your head and the top of your ears shielded from the elements and keep your whole body a little more comfortable on chilly and windy days. A beanie might be a little more awkward for indoor workouts, but wearing one before you get started can help keep the chills away until you can properly warm up. 

The post Warm Up With Winter Training Gear From AWMA first appeared on AWMA Blog.

It’s New Year’s resolution season again! Do you have any big martial arts or fitness training goals for 2026? What about smaller ones?

The new year is great for big ideas and big steps. You’ve got a whole new year ahead of you. And a brand new calendar. Everyone is talking about fresh starts, reevaluated priorities, and powerful changes. What better time to take big swings and chasing your wildest dreams?

But little goals matter, too. You don’t have to transform your entire life to meaningfully change it. And every big moment in our lives is made of up the smaller choices and efforts that we made along the way. Smaller resolutions can also help you stay motivated when you’re pursuing those bigger goals because it’s a chance to feel accomplished and celebrates your wins while you’re still working on the longer term stuff. 

So if you’re looking to start small with your training goals, or beef up your current resolution roster with a new addition, here are 10 mini New Year’s resolutions that you can try in 2026:

Try one new class.

The kind of class is up to you. It can be a martial art you’ve never tried before, a new level in your current martial art, or a fitness class. All you have to do is commit to one session to give your body and mind a new challenge and new perspective this year. 

Try one new technique in sparring. 

Logically, most of us know that sparring is where you take what you’ve learned and apply it in practical combat scenarios. But that’s not always easy to remember in the heat of the moment. Sometimes we fall back on our old faithfuls in order to “win” sparring. So why not pick a move that you’ve been afraid to try in sparring, resolve to try it at least once, and see where it takes you? 

Take one risk. 

We’re not talking about jumping off a building or anything that would risk your wellbeing. Just find one thing you’ve been too insecure to try in your training — whether that’s a new technique or a new tournament — and tell yourself that it’s time to go for it. 

Find one new cross-training exercise that can up your game.

Think of an aspect of your physical performance that you’d like to improve this year, like balance, core strength, cardiovascular endurance, or agility. Research exercises that will help you develop it. Pick your favorite and add it to your training routine. 

Stretch.

You don’t have to become a yogi overnight. You can start small. Add a stretch or two to the end of your workouts. Throw a mat on the floor when you wake up and do a few minutes of mobility work. Every little bit will help you stay more flexible and limber in your training and daily life.

Clear your mind.

You don’t have to become a zen master, either. You can start small with this, too. Take a couple of minutes to visualize what you want to accomplish before a training session. Take a few moments after you wake up or before you go to sleep to close your eyes and relax your brain. These little mindful moments add up, too, and they can help make you a more focused and clear thinking martial artist this year. 

Go for a walk.

Walking doesn’t get nearly enough credit as a physical activity. But it is great form of low impact exercise that can improve everything from your cardiovascular base to your mental focus. And it doesn’t require a ton of extra physical and mental energy, which means you can even do it on your rest and reduced activity days. Even setting aside 5-10 minutes a day for a stroll around the block or a quick treadmill session can improve your game and your life. 

Reevaluate your training gear.

Set aside some time to take out all of your training gear and make an honest assessment of it. Take notes of any wear and tear, and repair the gear that you can fix. Donate or sell the gear you don’t want anymore. And say goodbye to the gear that isn’t in fighting shape anymore. Then start making a list of what new gear you’ll need to replace it. 

Reevaluate your uniforms. 

Go through the same process with your martial arts uniforms and any other apparel you wear for training. Wash everything, then start looking at how well the fabric is holding up. Mend and patch any small wear and tear. Donate or sell any gear that you don’t use anymore if it’s still in good shape. Discard anything that’s beyond repair. Then add any new uniforms and clothing you’ll need to your list. 

Do your research. 

Don’t just jump into a new gear purchase — unless you know exactly what you want already. If you’re not sure, take some time to think about what it is you’re looking for in new sparring gear, gloves, uniforms, and clothing. Make notes on what has and hasn’t worked for you in the past. Talk to your training partners and see if they have any suggestions. Then head over AWMA.com to start looking at what’s available. When you find the right gear, order away.

The post 10 Mini Resolutions To Make You A Better Martial Artist in 2026 first appeared on AWMA Blog.

Everyone knows that AWMA is for martial arts. The MA stands for martial arts, after all!

A lot of people are probably aware that AWMA carries a number of products that are also ideal for fitness buffs. Or anyone else who exercises, whether they enjoy it or not.

But did you know that there’s plenty of cool stuff available on AWMA.com that can also appeal to people who don’t fit into any of those categories? 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the clothing, equipment, accessories, and novelties available from AWMA that can work for people who have never set foot in a dojo or gym. Whether you’re a martial artist who wants to pick up a few things for a friend while you’re ordering gear for yourself or you want to buy a treat for yourself while you’re shopping for the martial artist in your life, there’s something here for almost everyone. 

Clothing

Everyone needs them and AWMA carries a number of options that can keep you cool and comfortable outside of training, too. ProForce even has its own fashion line!

ProForce Sport® 8oz. Combat Pants II Coffee W/ Side Pockets + Back Pocket: People who don’t train have no idea how comfy a good pair of gi pants can be. This stylish take on the martial arts staple from ProForce Sport is the perfect way to introduce those people to their new favorite loungewear. $44.99 USD. 

ProForce Sport® Angel Wing Muay Thai Shorts W/Pink Bows: Some fashionistas with especially good taste know that Muay Thai shorts both look and feel great. This athleisure spin on them is ideal for anyone who wants to be part of that cutting edge. $49.99 USD. 

ProForce Sport® Chain Link Ninja Hoodie Mocha: Who doesn’t love a hoodie? They’re soft and cozy, and great for lounging around or casual outings. If you want to get creative, you can also try dressing them up under blazers. This particular hoodie offers all of the above plus a sweet retro graphic. $99.99 USD. 

ProForce Sport® Satin Demo Pants Black W/ Side Pockets: Demo pants are every bit as comfy as gi pants. And ProForce Sport’s sleek satin take on the Karate classic are a solid choice for any athleisure fan. $49.99 USD. 

Bruce Lee Freedom Vintage Poster T-Shirt: Graphic tees are another wardrobe staple with almost universal appeal. Bruce Lee is a star with almost universal appeal. Even people who aren’t usually fans of martial arts films love his iconic roles. Put them together and you get this excellent piece of wearable art for almost all types and occasions. $59.99 USD. 

Accessories

Some martial arts accessories are sports specific. People who don’t train wouldn’t get a lot of use out of hand wraps, for example. But there are still plenty of training accessories in AWMA’s catalogue with much broader appeal. 

ProForce® Transformer® II Bag/Backpack: No matter who you are or what you do in life, you are going to need a bag to help you carry stuff at some point. And a multi-purpose backpack that is strong enough to carry a load of martial arts gear and well ventilated enough to keep it fresh is exactly the kind of bag that can help other people carry all of their stuff, too. $99.99 USD. 

Hy-Gens 2 Shoe: These washable neoprene shoe forms were designed for martial artists who don’t want to train in bare feet, but they’re also a great option for anyone who is looking for an alternative to going shoeless in any activity. They’d make great slippers, too. $29.99 USD. 

ProForce® Ultra Jigsaw Mat:  They’re designed to provide support for martial artists—and protect the surfaces they’re training on. But these portable and easy to assemble jigsaw mats are also effective for anyone who needs a little extra padding in any sitaution, from trade shows to daycares. $139.99 USD. 

Classic Revolve Bottle 24 Oz: Everyone needs to hydrate. And a lot of people could use a sturdy and nice looking water bottle like this one to help them get the fluids they need on the go. $17.99 USD. 

Custom Silkscreening Services: This is a whole service that was designed for martial artists but can be enjoyed almost anyone! If AWMA carries it and can put a silkscreen print on it, you can customize it with your own design. Click here for more information and ideas. 

Fun Stuff

You don’t have to know ninjitsu to appreciate a good ninja-themed keepsake. AWMA has a whole novelty section dedicated to martial arts-influenced toys and trinkets that anyone can enjoy. 

9″ Folding Pocket Comb: A portable comb is a practical accessory for anyone who wants to keep their hair in place on the go. A portable comb shaped like a switchblade is a fun and practical accessory that will help you look your best while also having a little fun and feeling like a tough guy. $9.99 USD. 

TMNT – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Blind Capsule: TMNT has inspired multiple generations of fans to take up martial arts training. But even the fans who have never dreamed up picking up a martial arts weapon remain fond of the boys and their rat dad/sensei and would be very happy with a blind capsule figure or nine. $22.99 USD. 

Hamster Ninja Stuffed Animal: Forget hands of stone. You’d need a heart of stone to resist this cute little fuzzy ninja friend. $119.99 USD. 

ProForce® Ninja Plush Warrior: But if fuzzy isn’t your thing, ProForce also has its own cool but cuddly ninja stuffies. $19.99 USD.

Plastic Ninja Black Sword: Who doesn’t want a sword? This plastic sword is the perfect way to make someone’s sword dreams come true without having to worry about how to store—or wield—a proper katana. $9.99 USD. 

The post AWMA Gear: It’s Not Just For Martial Arts first appeared on AWMA Blog.

This time of year is hard on martial arts training. Holiday hours, social obligations, vacations, and realted stress can all interfere with your ability to maintain a consistent routine. And if you can’t get in enough training hours, you might start to notice a dip in your skills and conditioning. Which makes getting back into your old routine more challenging.

We might be not be able to fix all of your scheduling problems this holiday season, but what we can do is recommend some martial arts equipment that can help get you through it. Here are six pieces of training gear you can take home for the holidays to help you keep your mind and body in fighting shape until the new year. 

A Medicine Ball

If you’re flying anywhere this holiday season, you probably don’t want to lug a medicine ball on an airplane or train. But you can easily throw it in a car for a road trip or use it in the comfort of your own home. Medicine balls are an excellent piece of exercise equipment for holiday training because they’re so versatile. You can get a whole range of exercises and drills out of this one item, including strength, conditioning, plyometrics, balance training, core work, and grappling drills. Spending some quality time with a medicine ball this month can keep you strong, fast, and sharp. 

For more training tips, check our our blog post, 5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of A Medicine Ball. 

A Striking and Throwing Dummy

This is another piece of gear that’s best for the road and at home. And while the striking and throwing dummy is not quite as versatile as the trusty medicine ball, it can still cover a wide variety of martial arts disciplines and skills. Martial artists and combat sports athletes who want to work on their power, precision, and conditioning can take advantage of the striking portion of this dummy’s skill set. Those who want to work on their takedowns, throws, and ground game can use it for the throwing aspect. And anyone who wants to work on their strength and conditioning can lift, throw, and swing the dummy like a sandbag. 

For more training tips, we have a blog on how to get the most out of your striking and throwing dummy, too. 

A Gi Top

If you want to work on your grappling game over the holidays while travelling light, throw a gi top in your luggage. You can make a DIY grappling dummy by stuffing it with clothing or extra towels and blankets. It won’t be as sturdy and adaptable as a proper throwing dummy, but it will allow you to practice your throws, position drills, submission setups, and general body awareness. A gi top can also help you hone your grip strength. 

And yes, we’ve got more details on how to make that grappling dummy and more in our blog post on how to get the most out of your martial arts uniform. 

A Martial Arts Belt

If you bring a martial arts belt along with that gi top—or even if you skip the gi and bring it alone—you’ll have even more training options for your holiday downtime. A simple martial arts belt is a surprisingly versatile and handy piece of training equipment—and it will take up next to no space in your luggage. On your own, you can use it for assisted stretching and strength training. If you’ve got someone who’s willing to lend a hand, you can also add partner sprints and other cardio drills to the mix. 

For more ideas, we also have a blog on how to get the most out of your martial arts belt. 

Escrima Sticks

Escrima sticks are obviously a great option for anyone who wants to work on their Escrima skills over the holidays. But they’re also a portable and versatile option for anyone who wants to work on their hand eye coordination, focus, agility, and response time. Toss a pair in your suitcase, learn some basic drills, and keep your mind/body connection sharp for the new year. If you’re looking to stay limber, you can also use Escrima sticks as a massage tool to help with mobility training. 

We have a blog for that, too. 

A Strike Shield

Thanks to its size, the strike shield is another piece of training gear that’s better for home or the road. But if you’re driving somewhere or staying put, it will give you a bunch of fun and effective training options. If you’re alone, you can put it on top of a mat and use it for positional grappling drills and ground and pound rounds. If you have someone who is willing to train with you—or even someone who is willing to hold it while you train—you can also spend some time working on your punches, elbows, knees, roundhouse kicks, and push kicks. A few training sessions over the holidays can help keep your striking skills and your cardio conditioning ready for your return to the ring. 

And you can do some other fun stuff with it, as well. We have a blog for that, too. 

The post Stay Fighting Fit Over The Holidays With This Martial Arts Gear first appeared on AWMA Blog.

The holiday shopping season is ramping up. It’s time for the annual AWMA Blog Holiday Gift Guide to step back into the ring. 

Once again, we are digging into some of the newest and most popular products from the AWMA catalogue to help you find the perfect gift for the martial artists, martial arts fans, and fitness buffs in your life. 

This year’s game plan is all about the small stuff. Fun and affordable martial arts merch that can up your gift-giving game this holiday season and beyond. Stocking stuffers. Secret Santa gifts. An extra something for a gift basket. Birthday presents. Party favors. A little token to let someone know that you’re thinking of them. There’s something here for almost any occasion and budget. 

Under $60

Cobra Kai “Strike First, Strike Hard” Classic T-Shirt: When it comes to the Karate kid on your list—or anyone who loves the classic martial arts franchise—you can’t go too wrong with some Official Cobra Kai merchandise. This soft and durable 100% US cotton t-shirt with a bold Cobra Kai print is cool enough for daily life and comfortable enough for training. Available in sizes S-2XL. $59.99-$69.99 USD.

Bruce Lee Freedom Vintage Poster T-Shirt: If the martial arts enthusiast you’re shopping for is more into Jeet Kune Do and legendary old school martial arts films, AWMA.com also carries a selection of Bruce Lee merch. Like this stylish distressed graphic 100% premium cotton shirt boasting a jumbo retro collage of Bruce Lee’s image and wisdom that will inspire them to be free in work and play. Available in sizes S-2XL. $59.99 USD. 

Shock Dr. Mouthguard Case Red Kool-Aid Cherry: Sugary drinks don’t have the best reputation when it comes to oral health, but this Kool-Aid product can actually help protect your mouth. A good mouthguard helps martial artists avoid damage to their teeth, gums, and the insides of their cheeks. A good mouthguard case like the Shock Doctor Heavy-Duty Ventilated Mouthguard Case helps to reduce that mouthguard’s exposure to bacteria before and after training, keeping martial artists feeling and smelling better. And this particular mouthguard is a great choice for anyone who wants their gear to look pretty sweet while doing all of the above. $34.99 USD. 

Under $30

TMNT – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Blind Capsule: Treat the ninja, TMNT fan, or blind box collector in your life to a fun surprise. Each capsule contains one of 9 surprise figures that is sure to make them go Cowabunga. Sold individually. $22.99 USD. 

Classic Revolve Bottle: Top-shelf dishwater safe and designed to last, this 24oz BPA-free Polypropylene water bottle would make a great gift for martial artists, gym buffs, and anyone else who is dedicated to staying hydrated. And it has a convenient carry cap for easy grab-and-go use. Choose between a Tae Kwon Do Sick Kick logo or a Yin Yang All-Over Print. Or contact AWMA’s Custom Services to design a logo of your own for an extra fee. $17.99 USD. 

Karate Uniform Keychain: These practical and symbolic 2.5” gold plated stainless steel keychains feature a white gi and your choice of white, yellow, orange, green, red, blue, purple, or black belt color. If you know someone who has been training hard in Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or Judo, you can order the one that matches their rank and give the gift of a cool accessory and a sign that you’ve been paying attention and you’re proud of them. $12.99 USD.

Hamster Ninja Stuffed Animal: Who doesn’t want a cuddly little ninja buddy? This 7” plush Belly Buddy Ninja hamster decked out in full ninja attire is the perfect gift for anyone who appreciates martial arts and cute things. Available in grey and tan. $11.99 USD. 

Under $10

Plastic Ninja Black Sword: Swords probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when you’re looking for a one-size-fits-all git, but really, who doesn’t love a sword? This 24” lightweight sword, complete with its own sheath, is an ideal choice for cosplayers, play fighters, or anyone who wants to train with a real katana, but isn’t quite ready yet. Or anyone who might be amused to get a random sword as a present. $9.99 USD. 

Soft Foam 8-Point Dragon Star: Practice throwing stars like this 4” soft foam rubber one are another fun option for anyone who wants to look or train like a ninja without dealing with the sharp and pointy real thing. Available in black with gold designs and silver with red. $4.99 USD. 

2” Rubber Ninjas: These adorable little ninja buddies are a fun and not deadly option for birthday party favors, stocking stuffers, prizes, and mini gifts. You can order a bunch to spread the fun around or keep them for yourself and assemble your own secret squad of tiny ninja warriors. Available in 10 different styles with assorted colors and weapons. Sold individually. $2.99 USD. 

Under $1

Ninja Sticky Star Toy: Speaking of things that would make great favors, prizes, or tiny gifts, these 6” soft sticky plastic ninja stars offer a fun martial arts spin on a classic toy. These colorful toys cling to walls, windows, and smooth surfaces, then peel right off for another throw. Available in red or black. Sold individually. $0.99 USD. 

The post The 2025 AWMA Blog Holiday Gift Guide first appeared on AWMA Blog.

ProForce just dropped a brand new piece of martial arts equipment, and it’s a very well-rounded contender. 

The Proforce® Striking & Throwing Dummy (available with or without handles) is a very handy multi-purpose training tool for anyone who wants to work on their striking, grappling, and overall fitness. 

Weighing in at 50 lbs, this 40” throwing dummy with a heavy-duty synthetic leather cover, firm poly/cotton filler blend, and reinforced, triple-stitched seam construction is built to take every hit, takedown, sweep, and bit of positional work you can throw at it. And it’s designed for use everywhere from the dojo to the gym to your own home. 

When the AWMA Blog profiles martial arts gear for the Get The Most Out Of Your Martial Arts Gear series we usually add a couple of out-of-the-box suggestions at the end. But with a product as versatile as this, we need a whole post just to talk about all of the things it was made for. 

Here are five ways to get the most out of your Proforce® Striking & Throwing Dummy. 

Standing and Striking

The Proforce® Striking & Throwing Dummy with handles is an excellent all-in-one training tool for athletes of every skill level who participate in Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, MMA, and Boxercise. It’s strong enough to take anything you’d throw at a strike shield, but adaptable enough to give you the kind of fine-tuned precision training of focus mitts or Thai pads. 

That means that you can use the Striking & Throwing Dummy to work on almost every technique and position that you do from the feet, including punches, elbows, knees, push kicks, roundhouse kicks, and clinch work. And you can use it to focus on a number of different aspects of your striking game, like cardio, muscular endurance, hand-eye coordination, power, speed, and agility. 

Takedowns

Just like it says in the name, the Proforce® Striking & Throwing Dummy can also help you work on your throws — and any other method you use to get an opponent from their feet to the mat. This includes clinch work, head and neck control, and takedowns. 

If you train in a martial arts or combat sport that involves grappling like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, submission wrestling, amateur wrestling, or MMA, this dummy can be a very helpful substitute for the days where you don’t have any training partners to throw around. Both the handle and handle-free versions are good for this type of training, so which one you use comes down to your personal preference and training goals. The handles can help you work on grip training if you’re focusing on gi training, and the handle-free version can help you work on your no-gi game. 

Positional Drills

The Proforce® Striking & Throwing Dummy is useful once you get down to the mats, too. It’s an excellent solo training tool for anyone who wants to focus on positional work, sweeps, and submission attempts. If you can do it on the ground in BJJ, Judo, amateur wrestling, submission wrestling, or MMA, there’s a good chance that you can find a way to drill it with your new substitute training partner. 

The Striking & Throwing Dummy might not be the perfect replacement for a human training partner or a more traditional grappling dummy. You can’t easily apply an arm bar or leg lock on a piece of equipment that doesn’t have limbs. But with a little creativity, you can still get a very good grappling workout with it. 

Ground and Pound

You won’t need any creative workarounds when it comes to striking training on the mats. This Proforce® Striking & Throwing Dummy is perfectly designed for working on your strikes from multiple positions. You can put the dummy on the mat and work on your straights, hooks, hammer firsts, and elbows from guard, or switch it up and try things from side control. You can also roll over onto your back and put the dummy in your guard to work on your punches and head and neck control from the bottom. 

This type of training is obviously great for MMA fighters who want to work on their power, precision, and endurance on the ground. But they can also be a great workout for fitness buffs who are looking for a fun and effective workout that’s a little different from their ordinary strength and conditioning moves. And the Striking & Throwing Dummy is so easy to use that people of all skill levels can enjoy doing ground and pound training with it. 

Sandbag Training

For fitness buffs who are looking for a more classic functional fitness workout, the Proforce® Striking & Throwing Dummy can also function as a sandbag. Its weight and shape are perfect for dynamic exercises like swings and drags as well as more traditional weightlifting exercises like chest presses and bent over rows. 

We recommend using the dummy with handles for these exercises. (Although you could give the handle free version a try if you have enough grip strength, body awareness, and empty space to work out in just in case you slip.) 

The post Get The Most Out Of Your Striking & Throwing Dummy first appeared on AWMA Blog.