How Do You Craft Martial Arts Training Equipment Out Of Wood?
“Breaking” in Karate, Tae Kwon Do and other martial arts competitions requires strength, speed, spirit–or “Chi”–and, of course, numerous wooden boards. In board-breaking competitions, individual board measurements start at 1 by 5 by 12 inches for adults and increase in width to 1 by 12 by 12. Younger or more inexperienced contenders may use thinner breaking boards. You can buy the board directly at the United States and World Breaking Associations website, or save money by crafting your own. Check the grain of the wood. It should be straight or at least slightly diagonal with no knots, as the blow should strike parallel to the grain. Measure the wood with a tape measure or ruler. The standard length for boards is 12 inches, or less for people who need less of a challenge. Mark the desired length. Place the wood on a woodworking surface and secure it with clamps. Put on gloves and safety goggles, then take the saw and cut at the cut mark. If necessary, dry the boards by placing them i
