Makiwara
The makiwara is a training device that was invented in Okinawa, the birthplace of Karate. It is a long board, about 7-8 feet tall, that has a cushion of thick foam or rubber attached to one end of it. The end the cushion is attached to should be thinner than the other end. Then, the thicker end of the board is planted firmly into the ground so that it can stand on its own.
Some makiwara are not constructed out of long boards. Instead, they are made on shorter pieces of wood that can be nailed to the wall or other sturdy support.
The foam or rubber that is used should be of high density and is covered with leather or canvas, so that it can withstand abuse. Long ago, this foam was originally a bundle of straw that was tightly bound to the board. This is how the name, makiwara, which means to wrap/roll straw in Japanese, was given.
What the Makiwara is used for
Makiwara is typically used by Karate practitioners, who practice their punching technique and strength once they have learned enough to be able to punch an actual target. The knuckles and fists are strengthened when the makiwara is used, however without proper instruction, it could result in serious injury. Therefore, it is important that the practitioner learn how to punch properly before using a makiwara.
Many practitioners make their own makiwara, though it is readily available through any martial arts supplier at a reasonable cost.