Pad Holding and Line Management

The hold

Stance depends on the technique, but the body does not. Core on, back straight, eyes on the striker the whole time. Eyes let you anticipate and keep a wild kick off your face.

• Mitts: in front of the chest, about shoulder width, slight angle so the strike finds the middle. Grip firm enough to control, loose enough to move.
• Kick target: tight to your side, horse stance, forearm braced, hip and shoulder behind the bag.
• Clapper: two hands, waist or higher, bag steady, arms allowed to travel with the kick.
• Feet follow the striker. Quick and smooth. Do not crowd them.

The line

Waiting is part of the skill. A messy wait makes a messy turn.

• Straight line. Feet about shoulder width. Hands at the sides. Back straight. Head up.
• Personal space. No bumping, no leaning on the person in front.
• Eyes and mind stay with the drill while they wait.
• When it is their turn, they move. No stall, no sprint that clips the holder.

How you teach it

Make the rep a game if the room is young. Praise the picture you want repeated. Be patient. Show it, then let them try. One piece at a time.