Makiwara - Misconceptions and Notes On Usage

Misconceptions and Notes On Usage

Many Western Karate practitioners do not include the makiwara as a part of their training, citing the damage that they believe it will cause to the structures of the hand over time. Others train in the "sport" oriented styles that have become popular, which do not emphasize practicality in their training. Improper use of the makiwara can result in damage and deformity, however, proper use will not cause these results.

Usage will condition the hands/feet for delivering force, and train the hips, legs and shoulders to function in a way that generates the most power, and allows the practitioner to maintain a stable position throughout the motion.

Persons under 18 years of age should avoid hitting the makiwara with excessive force, as the bones of the hand are not fully developed until the middle teen years. Training with a makiwara at this age can damage the growth plates and stunt growth of the arm. You should train only under the supervision of an expert until he/she feels you are capable of controlling your training yourself. To begin with, start training with a lower number of low-power repetitions, and use common sense. If any swelling, bruising, laceration/tearing of the skin or loss of function occurs, do not train on the makiwara again until fully healed, or after consulting a physician. Improper posture and hand position commonly results in wrist tendon damage. Any discomfort in the hand or wrist while making everyday motions, such as turning a doorknob, is an indication that wrist/knuckle alignment is off and injury is imminent.