How To Fold Your Karate Gi

Here’s a nice example of how to fold your karate dogi. Oss!

How to Properly Fold Your Karate Gi: A Step-by-Step Guide

As a karateka, your gi is more than just clothing—it represents your discipline, commitment, and respect for the art. Keeping your gi neat and properly folded not only helps maintain its shape and cleanliness but also demonstrates your dedication to karate etiquette. Whether you’re heading to training, traveling for a competition, or simply storing it at home, learning how to fold your karate suit properly is an essential skill.

Why Fold Your Gi Correctly?

1. Respect and Discipline – Karate teaches us to respect our equipment, and a neatly folded gi reflects a disciplined mindset.

2. Practicality – A properly folded gi takes up less space, making it easier to store and carry.

3. Prevents Wrinkles – Keeping your gi folded neatly reduces creases and wrinkles, keeping it looking sharp for training and grading.

4. Prolongs Lifespan – Proper care and storage prevent unnecessary wear and tear, ensuring your gi lasts longer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Folding Your Karate Gi

Step 1: Prepare a Clean and Flat Surface

Find a clean, flat surface to lay out your gi, such as a table, bed, or the floor. Ensure your gi is free of debris before folding.

Step 2: Lay the Jacket Flat

1. Spread your gi jacket (uwagi) out with the front facing down.

2. Smooth out any wrinkles by running your hands over the fabric.

Step 3: Fold the Sleeves Inward

1. Take one sleeve and fold it inward so that it lies flat along the body of the jacket.

2. Repeat with the other sleeve.

3. If your gi has a thick collar, ensure it is laying as flat as possible to avoid unnecessary bulk.

Step 4: Fold the Jacket in Half

1. Fold the jacket in half lengthwise, bringing one side over the other.

2. Smooth out any remaining wrinkles.

Step 5: Lay Out the Trousers

1. Lay your trousers (zubon) flat on the same surface.

2. Fold one leg over the other to align them neatly.

3. Fold the trousers in half lengthwise.

4. If space is a concern, you can fold the trousers one more time to make them more compact.

Step 6: Combine the Jacket and Trousers

1. Place the folded trousers on top of the jacket.

2. Ensure the edges are aligned for a tidy fold.

Step 7: Final Fold

1. Fold the combined jacket and trousers in half, bringing the bottom up to the top.

2. If necessary, fold it once more for a more compact shape.

Step 8: Secure with a Belt (Optional)

If you want to keep everything neatly packed, you can wrap your belt (obi) around the folded gi:

1. Lay your belt flat and place the folded gi on top.

2. Wrap the belt around the gi and tie it securely in a simple knot.

Alternative Folding Methods

Some karate practitioners prefer different folding methods, such as the military roll or traditional martial arts fold, to create a more compact shape. Find what works best for you!

Conclusion

Folding your karate gi properly is a small but important habit that reflects your respect for the art and your training. It keeps your uniform in excellent condition, ready for your next session. By practicing this skill regularly, you reinforce the discipline that karate instills in all aspects of life.

Try folding your gi this way after your next class—you’ll appreciate the neatness and efficiency it brings to your training routine!