One of the questions I am often asked is how to make your own martial arts dojo at home. This is usually a question from students participating in our distance home study course for martial arts. So here’s a simple checklist for creating the best home dojo at a cost you can afford – just buy what you can or need for your own focused development.
RENTAL First, you need a place to train. Since it is about doing a dojo at home, we will assume that you have some space available. I have used a garage, a backyard, a room in the house, and the 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 dojo at home 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 are commonly known as puzzle mats. These rugs come in squares so you can buy only what you need. They can be placed on the ground in a matter of minutes by connecting them like a puzzle. These mats are also easy to pick up if you want to have room for something else.
MIRROR
Try to get at least a full-length mirror if you can’t dedicate a full 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.
PUNCH BAGSI suggest two types of punching bags. First is an independent bag that can be moved. Something like the Century Body Opponent Bag 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 resistant, like a good Muay Thai bag. Century also sells a good one of these.
WEAPONS WALLVisit the hardware store like Home Depot and get 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 atmosphere and feel.
Everything 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.
