Using training aids to increase hand speed

In martial arts such as karate, training with a heavy bag is a great way to develop power and hand speed. If you have a partner to train with, focus mitts are valuable because they provide a small, moving target. Your partner should move the mitt away as you try to hit it. If you hit it squarely every time, you need to step back to increase difficulty. If you can't ever hit it, step closer. This is a great karate training technique that ought to build confidence as well as speed, because although your partner can move the mitt very quickly, a real-life adversary is not likely to move his head that fast.

Herman adds even more value to the hand speed drill by providing immediate, tangible, objective feedback. The system measures and records the power of a pre-selected number of hits over a specific time interval, calculating your maximum power, average power and total score. Herman's sensors are extremely durable, but it's best not to subject them to direct hits. Our extensive testing determined that one sensor per target provides accurate results; there's no need for multiple sensors, although our Herman Graphics program offers this option if you want to try it. Herman's sensors measure power with accelerometers, the same devices that trigger airbags in motor vehicles. The sensor is attached to Herman via a 12-foot cable, allowing for plenty of room between the digital trainer and the target. If you like, you can connect an additional 10-foot speaker wire without any adverse effect. If you need more distance, consider Herman's wireless kit.