In traditional Chinese martial arts, Tiě Shā Zhǎng (鐵沙掌, 鐵砂掌, or 鐵絲掌), also known as Tie Shou Gong (铁手功), toughens both hands and legs. Despite the different terms, they all share the same goal of hardening the hands. Iron Palm refers to the outcome of intense training focused primarily on strengthening the palm of the […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
The Striking Post, a Symbol of Tradition and Strength in Okinawan Martial Arts. The Makiwara (巻藁), also known as the punching board, is a traditional training tool used in various styles of Karate. It finds its roots in Okinawan martial arts, it is one form of hojo undō, a method of supplementary conditioning used by Okinawan […]
Written by Gert Corfitzen Jürgensen
Body Conditioning in Okinawan Martial Arts. Okinawan martial arts are renowned for their comprehensive approach to training, which encompasses not only technique and strategy but also physical conditioning. A crucial aspect of this conditioning is the practice of “Tai Kitae,” a term that refers to specific exercises aimed at strengthening and toughening different parts of […]