The Dogi

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The Ashihara Karate Dogi: Your Uniform for the Way

Welcome to Ashihara Karate! Your journey begins with understanding our traditions, and one of the most visible is the uniform we wear: the Dogi.

The Dogi (or Gi) is more than just clothing; it represents your commitment, discipline, and respect for the art. It consists of three main parts:

  • Uwagi: The jacket
  • Zubon: The trousers
  • Obi: The belt, which signifies your rank

Our Dogi is made from durable white cotton or canvas, designed to withstand the rigors of dedicated training.

Customizing Your Dogi: The Ashihara Crests

In the Ashihara school, students are encouraged to display their pride in our style. You may wear official badges (crests) on your Dogi in two specific locations:

  • On the left side of the chest
  • On the left sleeve

The Obi (Belt): A Symbol of Your Journey

Your belt is the most significant part of your uniform, as it visually represents your progress and experience. The rank system is divided into two main categories.

Mudansha (Kyu Ranks – Below Black Belt)

For the ten ranks leading up to the black belt, students wear colored belts:

  • ⚪ White
  • 🔵 Blue
  • 🟡 Yellow
  • 🟢 Green
  • 🟤 Brown

Yudansha (Dan Ranks – Black Belt)

Holders of the ten upper ranks proudly wear the Black Belt. The ends of the belt may be marked with the holder’s name and the name of the Ashihara school.

The Story of Your Belt: Why We Don’t Wash the Obi

While your gi should be washed regularly, your belt should never be washed. This is a deeply held tradition. Every class you take, every drop of sweat, and every challenge you overcome becomes part of your belt’s story. Its worn and frayed appearance over time is a testament to your hard work and perseverance. It is a physical record of your unique karate experience, which is to be remembered, not washed away.

How-To Guides for Your Dogi

Proper care and handling of your uniform are signs of a disciplined karateka.

How to Tie Your Obi (Belt)

Follow these steps to tie your belt correctly and securely.

Step 1: Find the Center

Hold the belt in front of you and find its exact center. Place the center point against your abdomen, just below your navel.

Step 2: Wrap Around

Wrap both ends of the belt around your waist, crossing them over at your back. Bring the ends back to the front, ensuring the belt lies flat and is not twisted.

Step 3: The First Tuck

Take the end that is on top and tuck it up and under both layers of the belt against your body. Pull both ends firmly outwards to tighten.

Step 4: The Final Knot

Take the bottom end and cross it over the top end. Loop the top end through the opening you’ve created and pull both ends horizontally to form a tight, square knot. The ends of the belt should hang at an equal length.

How to Fold Your Dogi

Respect your uniform by folding it neatly after each practice.

Step 1: Lay the Jacket Flat

Lay your jacket (uwagi) on a clean, flat surface with the front facing down.

Step 2: Fold the Trousers

Fold your trousers (zubon) in half lengthwise, then fold them in half again to create a compact rectangle.

Step 3: Place Trousers on the Jacket

Place the folded trousers in the center of the jacket.

Step 4: Fold the Jacket

Fold one side of the jacket, including the sleeve, over the trousers. Repeat with the other side. Finally, fold the bottom of the jacket up to the collar.

Step 5: Tie with the Belt

Use your belt (obi) to tie the folded bundle together, keeping it neat and ready for your next training session.