If you are a martial artist, you have plenty of training-equipment choices. Some pieces of equipment make you stronger, while others make you more flexible. The best training equipment depends on the focus of your fighting style. Kickers require different equipment than ground fighters. The top 10 pieces of martial arts equipment can benefit a wide range of fighters.
Double Focus Pad
The double focus pad, also known as a paddle, is a useful training aid for kicking practice. This pad, which is about 18 inches by 8 inches, is especially good for improving accuracy with your roundhouse kicks. The two sides of the paddle clap together when you make a direct hit. Be careful that you don't kick your training partner's hand when he holds this pad for you. A double focus pad typically costs between $20 and $40, as of 2011.
Freestanding Heavy Bag
A hanging heavy bag can be difficult to set up. A freestanding bag, however, is simply held in place by a water-filled base. It can be easily rolled out of the way when necessary. You can develop powerful kicks and strikes on this large, stationary target. You can purchase a freestanding bag for about $120. Higher quality versions, with larger hitting surfaces, can cost about $350.
Stretching Machine
Flexibility is an important part of martial arts. Some fighting styles teach you to kick an opponent in the head. A stretching machine can help you accomplish this feat. Use this V-shaped machine by sitting on it and placing your legs in the padded leg rests. Adjust the degree to which you want the machine to spread your legs apart. This piece of equipment is good for home use and it can easily fit in a living room. It typically costs between $150 and $300.
Body Shield
A body shield is a large, foam target that your training partner holds in front of his body. Choose a shield that is at least 6-inches thick and made of high-density foam. A body shield is useful for developing strong techniques against a moving target. Durable body shields can cost between $75 and $150.
Padded Weapons
Students can spar with padded weapons without getting seriously injured. Swords, bo staffs, escrima sticks and nunchaku all come in padded versions. These pieces of equipment are especially popular in youth classes. Padded weapons can range in price from about $30 to $70.
Grappling Dummy
If you can't find a friend who will let you put him in a chokehold, try a grappling dummy. A grappling dummy is about the size of an adult and it has a head, limbs and torso. The dummy doesn't react like a person, but it allows you to practice quickly getting into ground-fighting positions. This equipment is typically stuffed with rubber fibers or foam and it has a canvas, nylon or leather covering. Dummies can range in price from about $100 to $600.
Wing Chun Dummy
A more traditional type of training dummy is the Wing Chun wooden man. This large training device has wooden arms and a wooden leg to simulate an opponent. The extended arms allow you to practice numerous techniques against an attacker who is punching. For example, you can practice evading the arms and striking the dummy. In addition, you can improve your footwork as you move around the dummy's leg. The wooden dummy, which moves slightly when struck, is particularly useful for conditioning your hands and arms. You can buy a cheaper knockoff version, but a well-made wooden dummy can cost nearly $1,000.
Double-Ended Bag
This small bag is connected to the floor and ceiling with elastic cords. If you hit the bag, it can erratically bounce around. The bag challenges you to develop timing, coordination and speed. A double-ended bag typically costs less than $30.
Mat
Martial arts classes typically include tumbling, takedowns or throws. Unless you want to be slammed directly into the floor, buy a mat. Pick a foam mat that is at least 2-inches thick. Martial arts mats can cost between $200 and $800, depending on the size.
Re-Breakable Board
Breaking boards is a traditional way for martial artists to test their strength and accuracy. Making frequent trips to the hardware store to buy pine boards can be tedious and expensive. Instead, buy a re-breakable board for less than $40. A re-breakable board has a groove that reattaches after it is broken. Breaking difficulty depends on the thickness of the board.
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