Kick Shields
The Origins and development of kick shields in Martial Arts
Kick shields were first introduced as a piece of equipment in martial arts towards the end of the 19th century. Their purpose was to help train practitioners in delivering stronger, more precise and faster kicks. They were especially useful for teaching counter-kicking techniques, which require careful offensive and defensive coordination. Kick shields have gained immense popularity ever since then and have become integral components of martial arts training sessions around the world. Practitioners use them to develop their muscle memory and gain better control over their skills and accuracy when it comes to delivering powerful kicks.
In recent years, kick shields have seen even more innovative designs; some are now integrated with modern technology such as foam sensors that measure force with each strike. They are lightweight and quite versatile; they come in different shapes and sizes, making them useful for both striking drills and core fitness training.
Shop Striking Shields at Made4Fighters
Martial arts practitioners have no shortage of options when it comes to striking shields. With brands like Fumetsu, Century, Elion and Fairtex, martial artists can choose among a wide range of shields available at Made4Fighters. These products come in a variety of sizes, including small and large versions suitable for practitioners of all ages and levels, while the designs available cater to martial artists’ preferences.
Curved vs Straight kick shield
Martial arts kick shields demonstrate the differences between curved and straight tools. Curved kick shields allow fighters to practise their vaults and cleaves, while Straight kick shields require the fighter to break in or adjust their attack curves. Moreover, it is important to note that the material of a curved shield typically absorbs shock better than a straight one since it follows different angles from different directions. As a consequence, when used in practice sessions, it can help reduce the risk of injury. Ultimately, both curved and straight kick shields are essential for helping martial artists hone their skills; however, each has distinct advantages and should be selected based on the person’s needs.
Curved Kick Shield - Fumetsu Ghost Thai Kick Shield
Straight Kick Shield - Bytomic Red Label Shield
Long vs Square martial arts shields
Martial arts kick shields come in a variety of shapes and sizes, designed to enhance the experience of practising a martial art. Another two common types are, long kick shields - usually about three feet in length - and square kick shields, typically about two feet in either direction. Long kick shields provide ample area for accumulating strikes from kicks, jabs and other moves that require concentrated strikes on one area. Square kick shields are more effective for developing kicking accuracy as they focus on foot placement more so than concentration of force. However, both are incredibly helpful for developing reflexes, speed and power, as well as improving overall fitness and coordination.