December 1&2, 1999, members of East York Hapkido-Karate Club's adult program had a board-breaking class at Secord Community Centre and a board-breaking demonstration at East York Community Centre. Here are some pics that shed some light on the finer points of breaking boards. You can click the smaller images to view larger ones. Please use the "back" button of your browser to return.

Boards are usually held using a strong forward stance. Tim Beasely (background right) and Gordon are holding the boards. Notice that our inside legs (Tim's left and Gord's right) are forward and that our outside legs (Tim's right and Gord's left) are backward. This helps to ensure that they will not buckle when Lua punches the board.

Sharon (left foreground) and Colleen (left background) hold a board for Wendy. Their fingertips grip the board at the edge. If you've ever been kicked on the fingers while holding a board, you know why.

Here, Tony Foster is pushing against a board held by Steve Mitakidis. This is a good way for the breaker to know that the breaking target is well anchored. Notice that Steve's elbows are slightly bent, to help absorb the impact of Tony's strike.

Tim Beasley, also a green-belt in Goju-Ryu Karate, makes first break ever. Notice that his arm is not fully extended as he penetrates the board. The secret to all breaking is to go beyond the target.

Photos on this page courtesy of Gordon W.E. Nore © 1999 - 2007