A training tunic is provided with tapered front and back panels. The back panel has attached side straps that mate with matable front portions on the front panel. The end of each side strap is folded to form a pocket compartment opening upward. Where each side strap is attached to the back panel, an outer side pocket is formed along the back panel that is sized and positioned so that the side strap may be inserted into the outer side pocket. When the training tunic is worn, it is open on the sides above and below the side straps, and a sleeveless arm area is formed on each side of the garment between the shoulder seams and the side straps. Preferably the training tunic has a hood or may have a collar.