Our Discipline design has been extensively tested with over 10,000 strokes and holds strong. CordsOfPenance Disciplines are made of sisal rope, by hand, so each individual product is unique. These disciplines have 1/4" cordage, an average size handle, and a teal-dyed grip. The 17" size is ideal for those with a small body frame (choose size S), the 19" size is good for average body frame (choose size M), and the 23" size is best for taller individuals (choose size L). Sisal disciplines are impact disciplines that do not easily break the skin. Bruising may occur depending on how vigorous the discipline is employed, and how consistently one takes to the discipline. This product is tried and tested. As a rule of thumb, we found that the impact is greater with tighter knots, but depends mostly on how much effort is involved. The sisal rope we use for our disciplines is a natural, biodegradable product, unoiled, and untreated by nasty chemicals. It is exceptionally durable and retains its strength and its knots well without requiring maintenance like oiling, waxing, or other methods of conditioning. Sisal disciplines get softer with time and use, without diminishing the impact. All our disciplines are discreetly packaged. Buy with confidence! The Discipline is an ancient instrument of self-discipline and penance, traditionally used during the spiritual discipline of the mortification of the flesh in order to aid sanctification. Many Christian denominations, including Anglicans, Lutherans, and Roman Catholics have used the Discipline extensively. The seven falls stand for the seven deadly sins: Envy, Gluttony, Greed, Lust, Pride, Sloth, and Wrath. "And when he [Jesus] had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise. And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up." John 2:15-17, KJV