This article will walk you through the basic
components of creating your own makiwara with parts you can find around
the house or purchase at a local building supply store. The makiwara is
critical to the development of the martial artist's fist. Makiwara
training strengthens the bones in your hands as well as creates tough
callouses, so that your fists will be ready to punch at any time.
The
makiwara is a traditionally Okinawan training instrument for karate
practitioners, but recently many different styles of martial arts have
found the benefits of makiwara training. The gloves come off, and the
bare hands are conditioned to punch hard surfaces (like a face) so that
it more closely resembles a real-life situation.
To create your
own makiwara, you will need some kind of striking post. It should be a
fairly flexible board, such as a 1 x 6. Cut the board so that the top
10 inches are in your correct punching zone when you are standing in a
proper stance.
You will need some kind of pad for the striking
surface of the makiwara. You can go the traditional route of wrapping
the makiwara board with rope, or you can use found objects from around
the home.
You will need to create a base out of a heavier
board
and mount this to the ground, attaching the makiwara board to the base
with some basic hardware. Mount the entire makiwara in a location that
is convenient for you, so that you will use it consistently. If you
have a home dojo, or spot in your basement, mount it there. Some people
place them in their basements, while if your climate is warm enough all
year, they can even be mounted outdoors.
