Training for Pugil Sticks

Pugil sticks are large, padded poles used in hand-to-hand combat training. They can be used to push, jab or strike an opponent, and they also serve as a defensive mechanism. Though pugil sticks are rarely, if ever, used in actual combat, they help train soldiers for rifle or bayonet fighting, or are simply employed as a competitive sport.

  1. Equipment

    • Pugilists must have proper equipment for training. The pugil stick itself is about five feet long, with two padded ends. For head protection, trainees use a standard football helmet with face mask. Groin protection, such as a cup, is recommended. Thick padded gloves and chest protection are also worn.

    Warm-Up Bout

    • This is a group training activity in which trainees stand in a circle while two people face off in the middle. A trainer should stand close by to watch their movements and give tips and suggestions. Each bout begins with the trainees separated by about twelve paces. The opponents then engage in free combat while the trainer looks on and, if necessary, interrupts the match to offer instruction.

    Graded Bouts

    • Graded bouts follow the warm-up exercise. In this method of training, the instructor keeps points during a three-round fight. One point is awarded for each blow to a "vulnerable point," which includes the groin, stomach, chest, throat or head. Opponents face off at a distance of twelve steps and advance toward each other when the trainer gives the signal. Rounds can be limited by point number or duration.

    Other Training Techniques

    • In human thrusting training, trainees line up in file formation. Each trainee is assigned a certain attack or defend method. Another trainee approaches each person in the line, one by one, as they execute their designated technique. Trainees learn how to handle a variety of pugil stick attacks. Specific attacks can include the thrust (when the length of the stick is pushed against the opponent's body), butt stroke (when the end of the pugil stick is used for blunt impact), or a slash (an up-to-down swipe of the padded end against the opponent). Pugil training can also be combined with obstacle courses. Trainees must run through the obstacle course, battling other pugilists on the way.