What is a makiwara board for?

Home Makiwara/Breaking Boards. Makiwara and breaking boards are training tools commonly used in martial arts. A makiwara is a padded striking post used in various styles of traditional karate. It allows users to practice punches and other strikes similarly to how a boxer uses a heavy bag.

Is makiwara training beneficial?

Several studies have been conducted to ascertain the safety of impact training in martial arts. Used properly and with good form, the makiwara is a safe and advantageous way to develop striking power in your martial training.

How do you use a makiwara board?

The proper use of a Makiwara isn’t meant to hit is as hard as you can, but using it to correct your strikes and focus energy in the correct spots to avoid injury. You should work on the boards gradually, starting with the padded board and working on the harder ones step by step.

Can a makiwara board be used as a wall mount?

In my opinion, the wall mountable “makiwara boards” are a poor substitute to to a real makiwara, as they deprive the martial artist of essentially all the benefits of a true makiwara. They also don’t have enough “give” and can be detrimental to the health of your joints.

How tall is a makiwara board in karate?

The shuri makiwara is a flat board, measured to be as high as the instructor’s breast bone. This makiwara is used when punching from a short stance. The naha makiwara is also a flat board, but measured to be as high as the instructor’s solar plexus.

Is it possible to build your own makiwara?

The makiwara is unique in giving instant feedback to the practitioner. The old (and not so old) masters realized that, and you can find many photos of old masters practicing on the makiwara. Several students at our San Diego dojo have built their own makiwara. It is easy – read on and you will see!

What is the main purpose of makiwara training?

Rather, the main purpose of makiwara training is learning how to generate power effectively. The makiwara is unique in giving instant feedback to the practitioner. The old (and not so old) masters realized that, and you can find many photos of old masters practicing on the makiwara.