The Gada or Macebell is an ancient training tool popularized in India. It was used heavily by wrestlers and strongmen, and continues to be a choice training tool for many.

The benefits of Gada / Mace training are focused primarily on the upper body, especially the grip, arms and shoulders. The dynamic nature of club swinging also provides an extra challenge in coordination and mobility. Not to mention it’s fun!

There’s also the added benefit of being able to make your own. Here’s how…

STEP 1: Sand the rattan until smooth and no loose fibers.

STEP 2: Put some nails or screws through the end of the shaft that will be loaded. This will allow the concrete something to “grab” onto.

STEP 3: Prepare your mold. If using a stone mold, spray the inside of the mold with silicone to make it easier to remove once the concrete has cured. If using a clay pot, silicone isn’t necessary as you will break the pot off with a hammer. [Note: an 8″ diameter concrete sphere will weigh approximately 22lbs and a 10″ diameter will weigh approximately 42lbs.]

STEP 4: Fill approximately half of the mold with concrete and then add reinforcement wire (chicken fencing shown). Be sure that the wire is in the middle of the concrete mold. Then add rattan shaft and fill the mold the rest of the way up. As you add the concrete, tap vigorously on the outside of the mold to bring the air pockets to the surface.

STEP 5: Position the shaft in the center of the mold, straighten, and allow the concrete to fully cure.

STEP 6: Once cured remove the gada from the mold and scrape off ridges and loose concrete with a scraper and wire brush.

STEP 7: Tape handle and prime gada for painting.

STEP 8: Paint to desired color (dipped paint shown).

STEP 9 AND BEYOND: Swing Gada and get strong.

For instruction on mace training contact Rob Sullivan at https://getwreckedfitness.us/