Home gym – How to make your own martial arts dojo at home
A question I am often asked is how to make your own martial arts dojo at home. This is often a question from students participating in our home distance martial arts course. So here is a simple list to create the best home dojo at a cost you can afford: just buy what you can or need for your own focused development.
TO LEASE First, you need a place to train. Since this is about making a dojo at home, we’ll assume you have space available. I have used a garage, a backyard, a room in the house, and a combination of all three on numerous occasions. Since the backyard would be closer to creating a mini-ninja camp. Let’s focus on using an indoor location. The bigger the better. If you can get a garage, great!
FLAT The first most important part of your home dojo will be the floor you train on. Since most garages are made of concrete, you need to find something you can train in without risking injury. I suggest you get interlocking martial arts puzzle mats or what is commonly known as puzzle mats. These rugs come in squares so you can buy only what you need. They can be placed on the floor in a matter of minutes by connecting them like a puzzle. These rugs are also easy to pick up if you want to have room for something else.
MIRROR
Try to get at least one full-length mirror if you can’t dedicate an entire wall. A mirror is a great way to train and develop your skills. It is one of the fastest ways to become a self-taught warrior.
BLOW SACKSI suggest two types of punching bags. The first is an independent bag that can be moved. Something like the Body Opponent Bag from Century would be perfect. You will use this to fine tune your punches and kicks. Next, you want to get a heavy bag. Something that is longer than your body and very sturdy, like a good Muay Thai bag. Century also sells a good one of these.
WALL OF WEAPONSVisit the hardware store like Home Depot and buy some peg boards and hooks. These are very easy to install on a wall and can be used to store/display your weapons and training gear. This will give your home dojo a martial arts vibe and feel.
Anything else you get should be personal and based on your own individual needs. I would add a climbing wall, kettlebell, stereo, and stretching devices. I also like to have a whiteboard to set goals or thoughts. Your home dojo can also be a mental gym.
To view more information on puzzle mats, punching bags, and martial arts equipment, visit the Pad-Up Martial Arts Equipment website.
