Asai Shihan's daily makiwara routine
The makiwara is karate's oldest training partner: a striking post that answers every punch and kick with resistance, teaching the body what correct impact feels like. In this recording of Asai's daily makiwara routine, watch the structure of the practice — the strikes are repeated methodically, alternating hands and techniques, with the same focus on the hundredth repetition as on the first. Notice the body mechanics: the punch does not stop at the surface but drives through the target, with the hip, shoulder, and fist arriving together. The makiwara also exposes mistakes instantly — a poorly aligned punch bounces off, while a correct one sinks in and returns cleanly. This is slow, patient work, and it is the foundation of the striking power that Asai showed in kata and kumite alike.