Holding pads

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Holding pads for striking is an essential part of training for many combat sports, including boxing, Muay Thai, and MMA. It allows fighters to work on their striking technique and power, while providing a safe and controlled environment for training. Here are some tips for effective pad holding in striking sports:

Proper positioning: As a pad holder, it is important to position yourself correctly to provide the most effective target for the striker. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your weight evenly distributed on both feet. Keep your arms up to protect yourself and provide a stable target for the striker.
Communication: Good communication is essential for effective pad holding. Let the striker know what type of strike they should perform, and provide verbal cues and feedback throughout the drill.
Varying targets: To keep the drill interesting and challenging, vary the target that the striker is striking. Move the pads around to different positions, such as high, low, or angled, to provide a range of different targets for the striker to focus on.
Resistance: Provide resistance for the striker to push against, making the drill more challenging and realistic. This can be done by pushing back slightly on the pads, or by using body movement to create resistance.
Focus on technique: Pad holding is not just about providing a target for the striker, but also about helping them improve their technique. Observe the striker’s technique and provide feedback on areas that can be improved, such as footwork, hand positioning, and body mechanics.
Safety first: Safety should always be the top priority in pad holding. Make sure that the striker is comfortable and able to perform the drill safely, and be prepared to adjust the intensity and speed of the drill if necessary.

In conclusion, holding pads for striking is an important part of training for combat sports. Proper positioning, communication, varying targets, resistance, focus on technique, and safety are all key elements of effective pad holding. By following these tips, pad holders can provide a safe and effective training environment for fighters to improve their striking skills.