"How To Make A Makiwara..."
From: Jason Stanley
1st February, 2003
Some people argue that a makiwara is a necessity for developing good kime (focus) and impact for punching. Others claim that training with a makiwara can lead to damaged hands and wrists and should be avoided.
While makiwara training is still widely used throughout the world, many schools do not offer makiwara training. Alternate training tools are often used instead to develop good kime and impact. For example, impact pads, focus mitts, ceiling to floor ball, etc.
I had heard arguments for and against makiwara training and read loads of articles of how to build and use a makiwara and decided the only way to really find out about the myths of the makiwara was to build one for myself and come to my own opinion.
This article takes you on my journey of building a makiwara. It focusses on the key points you should be considering when building your own makiwara and best practices so you'll avoid the pitfalls. It also will bring you up to speed with some brief history of the makiwara and its use.
Before I get started explaining how I built my makiwara, here's some quick Q & A to bring you up to speed if you're not familiar with the makiwara.
What is a makiwara?
A makiwara is a punching board...