I find it interesting that one of the apparently more common issues is holders being injured.
Kicking shields or pads and heavy bags both have their place in good training. But the heavy bag only benefits the kicker... The pad or shield benefits both, if it's done properly. The holder should be learning how to take a shot, how to make a solid stance, and solidly align their body. A new student should feel some pain and discomfort, but not be really injured, until they learn how to lock in and hold the shield. The pad or shield lets you learn how to handle a full force technique directed at you, and what it looks like.
Kicking shields or pads and heavy bags both have their place in good training. But the heavy bag only benefits the kicker... The pad or shield benefits both, if it's done properly. The holder should be learning how to take a shot, how to make a solid stance, and solidly align their body. A new student should feel some pain and discomfort, but not be really injured, until they learn how to lock in and hold the shield. The pad or shield lets you learn how to handle a full force technique directed at you, and what it looks like.
