Steel Mace Basics: Picking Up Your Mace Safely
When starting Steel Mace training, it’s important to learn the fundamental movements, and that includes how to properly pick up your mace. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, this is something you can practice daily.
Why does it matter? Safety. A great Steel Mace coach always prioritizes injury prevention, and proper technique starts the moment you touch the mace. That means knowing how to lift it and position it correctly before you even begin your workout. Let’s break it down.
The Importance of Picking Up Your Steel Mace Properly
Like any fitness tool, using the Steel Mace with intention from the very start of your workout is essential. Here’s why proper technique matters, even when simply picking it up:
- Builds Discipline & Good Habits – Mastering proper technique from the beginning ensures every phase of your workout is executed correctly. When you start right, you’re more likely to finish strong.
- Sets a Positive Example – Whether you realize it or not, others are always watching and learning. By practicing safe and intentional movement, you inspire others to do the same.
- Prevents Injury – The biggest reason to focus on correct technique is safety. Taking the time to move properly reduces the risk of strain or injury, allowing you to train consistently and pain-free.
LATERAL LIFT
This is one of the simplest ways to pick up your Steel Mace—but you’d be surprised how often beginners overlook it! Here’s how to do it correctly:
- Position the Mace – Place your Steel Mace on the ground beside you.
- Set Your Stance – Bend your knees slightly and slide your hand down toward the mace head.
- Lift with Control – Raise the mace straight up along your side in a smooth motion. That’s it!
Tip: Whichever side you place the mace on is the side you’ll lift with. If it’s on your right, you’ll use your right hand and vice versa. This applies to all starting positions covered in this guide.
TWO-HANDED LATERAL LIFT TO HORIZONTAL MIDDLE
This starting position will get you ready for any Steel Mace exercise you will commence in Horizontal Middle.
This starting position sets you up for any exercise that begins in Horizontal Middle. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Position the Mace – Place your Steel Mace on the ground beside you.
- Set Your Stance – Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward, similar to a quarter squat.
- Grip the Mace – One hand should be near the mace head, the other around the midpoint of the handle.
- Lift with Control – Raise the mace smoothly and bring it to Horizontal Middle.
Tip: Keep your gaze forward while lifting to maintain proper alignment and balance. This applies to all starting positions in this guide.
TWO-HANDED LATERAL LIFT TO VERTICAL MIDDLE
This starting position prepares you for any exercise that begins in Vertical Middle. The key? Lift with control and confidence…like a warrior!
- Position the Mace – Place your Steel Mace on the ground beside you.
- Set Your Stance – Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward into a quarter squat.
- Grip the Mace – One hand should be just below the mace head, while the other grips the end of the handle. Beginners can start with a mid-handle grip (also known as “choking the mace”) for added control and safety.
- Lift with Control – Raise the mace smoothly, keeping a firm grip, and finish in Vertical Middle.
Master the basics, stay focused, and always stay in control. These starting positions may seem simple, but practicing them consistently will build a strong foundation for everything else you do with the Steel Mace. I make them a part of my routine, and they’ve improved my technique, strength, and overall movement.
So, take the time to refine these positions and make them second nature. Your future self—and your Steel Mace training—will thank you for it!
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends and family who might enjoy training with a Steel Mace. The more people we can introduce to safe and effective movement, the better!
Keep going Warrior!
