The most widely used training method in various martial arts is the so-called pad and kicking shield training. There are several names for this type of training: pad training, kicking shield training, mitt work, and so on.
Nowadays, many personal trainers also make eager use of this training method. It is safe (no contact with the partner), efficient (lots of fat burning and cardio), and fun as well.
There are various types of punching and kicking shields on the market: small punching mitts, focus pads, thai pads, and large kicking shields. All of these can be used for different types of training.
Small punching mitts and punching mitts
These pads are among the best-selling pads. They are available from as little as 30 euros per pair, making them a minimal investment.
The punching mitts are ideal especially for punching training. Naturally, these punching mitts are widely used in kickboxing and thai boxing, but athletes from many other martial arts also benefit greatly from them.
All combat sports and martial arts that use hand techniques can make optimal use of these pads during pad and kicking shield training. Think of martial arts and self-defense sports such as Krav Maga, Karate, Taekwondo, and Kung Fu.
The principle of the training is simple: people work in pairs, which is also why it is so popular with personal trainers and small group training. One person uses the pads to signal the target, either standing still as a target or, for more advanced training, moving on command.
Another option is a stationary target, where the pads are held up statically, allowing the person throwing the punches to determine their own pace.
Focus pads / Focus mitts
Focus pads resemble the smaller punching mitts but are more versatile. You can hold the focus pads in two ways: with the palm facing up or down.
This allows you to practise a wide range of techniques, from punches to all kinds of kicks. You can also switch quickly between pads, making them highly suitable for intensive, high-tempo training.
Many Taekwon-do schools in particular use this type of pad, but when used correctly, they are suitable for all kinds of fighting techniques.
Using these small pads is essentially the same as using the punching mitts, except that it is easier to alternate combinations of punching and kicking techniques. You can also give completely random signals (for advanced martial artists) to train reaction speed.
Large kicking shields
Large kicking shields are very popular with many fighters and recreationalists during pad and kicking shield training. These are probably also the best-known punching shields.
Large kicking shields are available in many variations and price ranges. They are ideal for beginners and children who are not yet very accurate.
They are also highly suitable for advanced athletes, as these shields allow them to perform their techniques with full power.
Thai pads, armpads, or Pao
Thai pads, also known as armpads or Pao (the Thai term), are truly associated with Thai schools. They are indispensable in every serious training camp, dojo, and/or gym.
Thai pads are used to practise all kinds of techniques, but they are particularly suitable for knees and powerful power kicks.
The price of thai pads starts at around 80 euros and rises to over 200 euros for the most professional and heavy-duty versions. Thai pads cover the entire forearm and come with a gripbar and sturdy, adjustable straps.
