Hi there,
I believe it was me who added round bar to the front of the pedals for strength.
Used round bar as it is stronger than flat with better looks (in my opinion).
Like somebody said "beauty is in the eye of the beholder"
I wouldn't weld anything to the back of the pedals espicially on MX5 build as both the clutch and brake pedal require a clevis for the master cylinders.
Good luck with your buid Johno......