Thai pads work 3

Pao mitts are unequalled as a mean to refine the combinations of strikes and to increase the explosiveness of each attack; therefore, their use should be included in every Nak Muay’s weekly training routines. By hitting these tools on a regular basis with kicks, fists, elbows and knees, great explosiveness can be developed and as a result, all blows will gain greater power. The goal is to have at one’s disposal an array of fighting tools capable of annihilating the opponent with the least possible number of blows, when the latter are properly directed against the enemy’s sensitive spots. When working the pads, one of the key element to be considered is the creation of a good “feeling” between the boxer and the pad holder. Pad holding is an Art in itself: in every thai boxing or western boxing gym, the best pad men are considered a great added value to the gym’s team. Good pad holders can bring boxers to develop their footwork, timing, and coordination by feeding them the right pad at the right moment. The best pad men can actually become the boxer’s best sparring partner: when the feeling between the trainer and the fighter is right, a pad work sessions becomes the closest thing to a real fight that may be reproduced without the high risks connected to receiving full power blows.