Beyond Calluses: Honoring Tradition, Building Strength and Technique with Makiwara Training.

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on DEC 27, 2024

Beyond Calluses: Honoring Tradition, Building Strength and Technique with Makiwara Training.

(Approx 2 minute 10 second read)

In 1908, Anko Itosu wrote a letter called the “Ten Precepts (Tode Jukun) of Karate” to draw the attention of Japan’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of War toward karate.

One particular point in Itosu’s fourth precept stands out: the importance of the makiwara. “In karate, training of the hands and feet is important, so one must be thoroughly trained on the makiwara.”

The makiwara (巻藁), or striking post, is often misunderstood as a tool solely for hardening knuckles. Its real purpose is to develop a strong punch while conditioning the wrist and hand for impact. Calluses might form along the way, but they’re just a byproduct – not the goal.

These days, we have all sorts of tools for striking practice: the ‘Bob’, pads, heavy bags, you name it. But there’s something special about hitting the makiwara.

Back in the UK, I had a traditional straw makiwara in my garden and used to hit it around 500 times a day. In my dojo now, I’ve got the leather-padded kind, but the straw version was always my favorite. I have a second one too, made by myself from an old snow ski with a hard foam pad attached. And let’s not forget the heavy bag.

Training with something solid to hit is crucial. Practicing in the air or pulling punches won’t prepare you for the shock of striking a real object. The makiwara sharpens your technique, breathing, and form. It doesn’t lie – poor technique becomes glaringly obvious the moment your hand connects.

The name “makiwara” comes from the coiled straw traditionally used as padding. Some say it has antiseptic properties – though I’m not convinced. These days, you’ll find variations with rubber or leather padding. Leather is often preferred for its durability.

You’re not limited to just punching, either. While the classic ‘seiken’ (fist) is a staple, there are many techniques you can practice. Beginners should start light, gradually increasing intensity as your hands and wrists strengthen. A word of caution: warm up properly and take your time. Rushing leads to injuries, and trust me, that’s not a lesson you want to learn the hard way.

Speaking of caution, let me share a story. One of my students, training at home, filled an old canvas punch bag with sand and went at it too hard, too soon. He ended up with a broken wrist. It’s a classic example of why you need to progress gradually and listen to your body. Stop if you feel pain and give yourself time to recover – it’s better to rest than risk long-term damage.

There are myths floating around that makiwara training causes arthritis or rheumatism. In my experience, I’ve seen no evidence of this – at least not when the training is done correctly.

The makiwara isn’t just a physical challenge; it’s a test of your commitment. It demands effort, consistency, and patience. For me, it’s one of my favorite tools in training.

Why not give it a try? Just don’t blame me when your neighbors start wondering why you’re punching a wooden post like it owes you money!

Written by Adam Carter – Shuri Dojo

 Photo Credit: Teruyoshi Okazaki