Karate Training - How to Use the Makiwara for Striking Development with Chinzo Machida

Summary

In this video, Shinzo from Torrance, California, shares insights on how to enhance martial arts techniques, particularly focusing on the importance of locking the shoulder during a punch. He explains how proper body mechanics, such as using the back leg and engaging the hip, can generate more power. Shinzo emphasizes the need for repetition and precision, and also demonstrates footwork and different types of punches, including stationary and step punches. He offers tips on practicing with care to avoid injury, especially when working on advanced techniques like kicks and hook punches.

Takeaways

• 😀 Lock your shoulder during a punch to engage the whole body, not just the arm.
• 💪 Power in a punch comes from the back leg and hip rotation, not just the arm.
• 🦶 Ensure the power of your punch goes through the target, not just stopping at the surface.
• 🎯 Repetition is key to improving technique—practice continuously for better results.
• 🔄 Use proper footwork along with your punches to cover distance and maintain power.
• 🚶 Keep your level steady when moving forward to maintain balance and power in punches.
• 👊 Be mindful of wrist positioning to avoid injuries—train with care.
• ⛓ Lock the shoulder before impact for maximum power, then relax after completing the punch.
• 🔁 Practice different punch techniques, including stationary and step punches, to build versatility.
• 🦵 Start practicing kicks with precision, especially snap kicks aimed at the lower part of the body.

Q & A

What is the importance of locking the shoulder when punching?

Locking the shoulder helps engage the entire body in the punch, rather than just using the arm. This allows the power to be generated from the back leg and transferred through the punch.

Where should the power in a punch come from according to the instructor?

The power in a punch should come from the back leg and the rotation of the hips, not from the arm. The shoulder should be locked to maximize the transfer of energy.

What is the proper stance for performing a straight punch?

To perform a straight punch, the stance should be stable, with the shoulder locked down and the power originating from the back leg. The punch should not be anticipated with the arm but should be driven by the entire body.

Why is it important to visualize the power going through the target?

Visualizing the power going through the target ensures that the punch doesn’t stop short. The punch should follow through with full force, aiming to drive the energy beyond the point of impact.

How does the instructor recommend improving punching technique?

The instructor recommends repeating the movements as much as possible. Through repetition, the technique will gradually improve, making the punch more effective and fluid.

What is the role of the footwork in enhancing a punch?

Footwork is important for creating distance and maintaining balance. Proper foot placement allows for better weight transfer, and the instructor advises not breaking the level while moving to ensure smooth punches.

What precautions does the instructor advise when punching to avoid injury?

The instructor advises starting slowly and focusing on proper wrist positioning. If the wrist isn’t properly trained, it can bend upon impact, causing injury.

What are the two main types of kicks the instructor mentions?

The two main types of kicks are the thrust kick, which pushes through the target, and the snap kick, where the foot comes up from the ground with precision and speed.

How does the instructor recommend using the ‘micu’ tool for training?

The instructor recommends using the micu tool for training precision in punches and kicks. It helps to focus on technique and body coordination, which is different from using a punching bag.

What are some key takeaways from the lesson on the micu tool?

The key takeaways include the importance of repetition, the use of proper body mechanics (engaging the whole body), and precision when practicing punches and kicks with the micu tool to improve technique.