Issue 056
November 2009
A must-have for any gym, focus pads are one of a coach’s most useful tools, but don’t be fooled: Not all focus pads are created equal.
Why Use Them?
Focus pads are a useful tool for working your striking combinations together with footwork, movement and timing. They are light and maneuvrable, but solid enough to take a reasonably powerful shot. The person wearing the pads also has the ability to send shots back to make sure that the fighter is moving and covering correctly.
When Would You Use Them?
Focus pads are most commonly seen in boxing training, but can also be used for ground ‘n pound drills from almost any position, or when working on striking from clinch. They are often used as part of a fighter’s warm-up before a fight.
Weight and padding
Focus pads vary greatly in how heavy they are and how thick the padding is. Each pair will have a slightly different ‘feel’ to hit. You may need to try several different pairs before finding one that suits you. Many coaches have several different pairs of focus pads that they can choose between, depending on the drill they are doing and the fighter they are working with.
Curved or straight?
Focus pads come in two main types – curved or straight. The curved pads can take a little longer to get used to, but allow the hands of the person holding them to sit in a more natural position. Experienced coaches often find them more comfortable to wear, especially for prolonged use.
Material
Most focus pads are covered in leather or vinyl. The leather ones are more durable and usually of a higher quality, making them a better investment for anyone who does a lot of focus pad work. The cheaper ones are more suited to use in classes or for occasional home use.
GENERAL TIPS
Your trainer
When working with pads, the most important thing is the person holding them. Feeding pads is an art in itself, and takes practice. If you are holding pads, work on holding them in a comfortable position, with minimal strain on your own body; giving the right amount of pressure back as the fighter lands the strike; moving around in a realistic way and setting good combinations.
If you are the one feeding the pads, make sure that you have a pair that are comfortable to wear and put as little strain as possible on your hands and arms.
Check stitching and workmanship
Bear in mind that your focus pads are going to take one hell of a hammering. Any slight defects in the stitching may turn into gaping holes after a few thousand right hooks, so make sure the quality is up to scratch when you buy them. Remember that to a large extent you get what you pay for, and that it’s worth paying a bit extra for a set that will last you for years, rather than one you’ll be looking to replace six months down the line.
OTHER TYPES
Other types of pad are available, such as the double-sided focus pad and the coaching glove, which combines a boxing glove and focus pad in one. Although these are no substitute for a good-quality, standard pair of focus pads, they might come in handy in some situations.
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