Level up your training with a kicking paddle

If you've ever stepped into a martial arts gym, you've probably seen someone holding a kicking paddle for a teammate while they blast away with roundhouse kicks. It's one of those tools that looks simple—it's basically just a padded target on a stick—but it completely changes the dynamic of a training session. Unlike a heavy bag, which just sits there and takes a beating, a paddle moves with you. It requires precision, timing, and a bit of finesse that you just can't get from hitting a stationary object. ...

May 6, 2026 · 7 min · Pascal Mckinsey