How to Build a Makiwara Board

A makiwara board is an essential training device for martial artists. It helps you refine your punches in a way that no amount of sparring or heavy bag work can. A makiwara can be built in a couple of hours using a few dollars in materials.

Things You'll Need

  • 4x4 board about eight feet long, treated for outdoor use
  • Electric saw
  • Post hole digger
  • Quick-setting concrete, mixed and ready to pour
  • Level
  • Closed cell polyethylene
  • Duct tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut the board with the saw beginning three feet from the end of the 4x4 so the end of the board is a half inch thick.

    • 2

      Dig a hole about three feet deep and place the 4x4 in the hole. The uncut end goes into the hole.

    • 3

      Pour concrete into the hole. Use the level to make sure the 4x4 is kept straight while the concrete is setting.

    • 4

      Cut the polyethylene to the right size for attaching to the 4x4. Using the duct tape, attach it securely at chest height.

    • 5

      Allow the concrete to fully set before using the makiwara.