Learn about the Nigiri Game (or Gripping Jars) - Karate Training Tool

This page provides details about the Nigiri Game (or Gripping Jars). This traditional Japanese martial arts training tool is used by some Karate sub-styles in order to develop hand, arm, shoulder and leg strength. This equipment is used in Hojo Undo, traditional strength training used by some Karate styles.

Nigiri Game are large heavy ceramic jars that martial arts students must lift. Students must grip the jar by rim with their fingers and either do stationary exercises with the jar or move with the jar. These jars often hold different levels of sand in order to vary the weight of the jar. Nigiri Game are almost like modern kettlebell equipment but harder to hold and thus provide extra training for a student's hand strength. Indian exercise clubs are another similar traditional training tool.

For more traditional training equipment information, please visit the main Martial Arts Training Equipment section.