What is the point of breaking boards?

The at-home television viewer might find him or herself openly questioning the validity of breaking boards: after all, when do these types of situations really need to be used in real life?

But there is a method to the madness of breaking boards, and once you come to understand it, you'll also understand why they remain a great benchmark for many people who are pursuing their goals.

First, try to understand that breaking boards is often more of a psychological test than a physical one. The people who break boards are born with the same appendages and bones as the rest of us - what they've achieved through practice, most anyone can achieve through similar work and dedication.

How is it a psychological test? Breaking through something that appears impossible to break measures one's beliefs. Many martial artists will tell you that if you don't believe you can break a board, you won't be able to do it. It's only through confidence and experience that the beliefs develop and you begin to realize that you do have the power - if you put your energy into breaking those boards.

These martial artists will also tell you that when it comes to breaking larger amounts of wood, ice, or concrete, that belief becomes that much more vital. Attacking these hard objects with nothing but flesh puts them at a real risk of injury. It's through belief and mental discipline that these oddly-seeming feats can be achieved.

If you've ever seen someone walk on hot coals, you've witnessed the same principle taking place. The human body is more than capable of walking over hot coals: it's the mind that needs work.

In martial arts, it's not always about the technique behind the fist - it's about the mind controlling the fist. And breaking boards is a great way to put that mind to the test.

Photo Credits: lepiaf.geo

Originally posted 2009-07-22 05:41:32.

Flying Sidekick.

If you've decided to take up a martial art, or if you're providing for someone who has, you know that it's time to get stocked up on gear. Along with a new hobby usually comes a new way of dressing - sometimes for aesthetic purposes, and sometimes for practical purposes. When it comes to martial arts, it's important to make sure that you've got both the aesthetic (uniforms) and the necessary (helmet and pads). It's time to stock up on some essential martial arts gear.

Head Gear

First, you'll want to make sure that you're stocked up on head gear. The first thing anyone who's sparring needs to do is to make sure that they're essentially wearing a helmet to compliment the protection they already have with their skull. Your brain is your most vital organ, so make sure that you keep it shielded from potential injuries like concussions. This means wrapping your head up with some effective helmets.

Sparring helmets typically look like wrestling helmets. The Dyna Sparring Gear Set includes a helmet that protects the head, ears, and the cheeks, while allowing for a degree of comfort, as well as holes so that air isn't trapped by sudden impacts.

Remember that head gear also refers to mouth guards - mouth guards can do a lot to protect your head. Don't consider a mouth guard to be an "optional" item - they're nearly as important as helmets. Mouth guards help prevent concussions be softening the impact your head has with your jaws. When you're sparring, make sure you have the right kind of head gear - both inside your head and outside.

Other Sparring Gear

Once your head is protected, you've done a lot to keep yourself safe during a sparring session. But the other gear you'll need also pads some of your loosest joints and most frequently impacted bones. Gloves should protect both your fingers and your knuckles, providing plenty of padding - it should be relatively easy to punch a solid surface without feeling too much pain.

Sparring gear also can go over your chest and other areas of your body - the more area you have protected, the better. Sparring gear will help to make sure that you avoid injuries while practicing your martial arts, allowing you to maintain your habits and discipline.

When it comes to the everyday gear, many martial arts centers will tell you where to find uniforms and might even provide a belt for you. Remember to ask your trainer about the kind of gear you'll need, and try to err on the side of safety.

Photo Credits: kaibara87

Originally posted 2009-07-21 05:36:09.