Toddler Hitting

I don't know where else to go for this, but I feel this is getting worse. No matter what I try. I'm a FTM and my son will be turning 3 this month.

It's almost always when he doesn't get his way (of course). After it happens, I gently tell him "that's not nice" or "ow! that hurts!" with a sad face to help him see that it causes me harm. I've taught him how to say "sorry" and even hug afterwards.

Sometimes he'll hit me using a toy and I tell him that I will take the toy away if he continues to hit. When he continues, I take it and he throws a tantrum, which leads to breathing exercises. Then I try to get him to apologize and he'll either be OK or he's back to crying or I will try to redirect his attention.

If he does it just once, then I will just try to redirect his attention or show him how to use nice hands.

It just seems like lately he's taken off with his independence and refuses to apologize or refuses to calm down and breath or he'll continue to hit and just throw punches or kicks.

I feel like I've tried everything, but having a hard time finding something that works.

I'm about ready to get this kid his own punching bag because he's only getting bigger 🤕😩.

If any experienced moms have something that has worked on their little ones, PLEASE let me know!