speedkick

Perhaps there is another view of conditioning that you may consider. To improve punching the density of the bones would be as important as having tough skin on your knuckles. This is where I would use the makiwara in conjunction with press-ups on knuckles (if over 16/18 ) and other forearm/grip strengthening exercises. Protect the skin using some light bag gloves while using the makiwara and then build up the toughness of the skin/hands using another training tool - e.g. heavy leather bags, sand etc..

Strong right-cross. Got to be the way to go! (Just started studying Shinbudo)

Just an opinion, but if you are trying to work on sparring (and I assume this was the aim of the exercise) then when you see him starting to loose it, just stop and ask him to improve his control - it is also part of the sparring exercise. But... If you are looking for technique to counter a loss of control in an opponent then I agree with samoht's post - stay out of reach and counter when they overextend themselves - that's when they will not be able to recover quickly.

I tend to use my side kick defensively but throw a lunging front arm backfist while recovering. Use the weight of the kick on your opponent to recoil the leg then move into position for the back fist - if you have your balance right the time between the two techniques should be very small and not allow for a counter attack. It has worked OK in the past I trained my side kick by placing a high backed chair about half a meter infront of my leading leg then kick over it. It helps you raise the knee fast enough to get a really good side kick off.

May I suggest that the legs may be more occupied attacking the knees of your assailant (based on situation) while your hands are aiming to keep your "centre line" knife free