The Benefits of Makiwara Training - The Art of Makiwara - VII

Statement One: "Karate requires large knuckles and calluses to be proficient in technique applications?"

Comment: Not true from my view. I am proficient in applying my techniques. I don't have large knuckles or extensive calluses on my hands. I remember a returning karate-ka who trained at the honbu dojo for Goju. Sensei required a ton of makiwara. She returned from her year and expressed in a blog entry how she was feeling self conscious with the "deforming of the hands" from her time on the makiwara and was concerned about stopping. Once it was explained how you can continue makiwara with out this extensive formation on the hands and still reap the benefits for karate - this person had the "uh-oh, doah" moment and changed her makiwara practice. Cool!

Statement Two: "Traditional makiwara contain a rolled straw punching pad?"

Comment: Let me be particularly literal for this answer, who the heck knows what is a traditional specification for a makiwara? Who the heck knows if the classical practice of karate, pre-1900, actually used a straw pad vs. something else. Tatsuo Sensei used specially created "tatami mat material" to place on makiwara. That was in the forties and fifties so more of a traditional view, i.e. post-1900 karate practice.

Statement Three: "A common misconception is that the makiwara board should be stiff?"

Comment: Hmm, a very subject question warranting a subjective answer. It depends. I used a stiffer makiwara while others the more narrow and flexible version. I also know of some who actually used the hanging, free hanging, type that was a larger, heavier and more like human weight to hit and maneuver around while it swung freely. It depends on what you want and that depends on your level of expertise and ability for the art of the makiwara. As to beginners, have an expert supervise and use the more "traditional" tachi-makiwara to gain ground toward expertise.

In this particular post we covered three distinct areas of concern when researching whether a person would utilize the karate tool, the makiwara. The answers here and in following posts will help karate-ka determine their needs in pursuing the art of the makiwara.