Are you interested in finding one but don’t know where to buy a punching bag? There are many trustworthy sources, both online and offline that stock this handy addition to your boxing gear. The punching bag is almost synonymous with boxing training, and it will be relatively easy to find. But will it offer any value? Does it pose any risks? Will a punching bag prove to be a great buy? We explore everything you need to know about this boxing gear to help you make your decision.
What type of punching bag is best for you?
Also called jumbo bags, heavy bags are the most common options available for fighters. These pre-filled or fillable bags are used for rigorous training and application, working well to build up strength. They will require some set up and a bit more room than other options featured. Uppercut bags are much smaller than heavy bags, and are tailored for combination punches. They also work well for body shots.
Speed bags are small hanging balls that are designed to build up hand eye coordination. They are about a similar size to double ended bags, but the latter is better for counterstriking. While speed bags are generally mounted to a wall board, double ended bags are fixed onto both the ceiling and floor. Maize bags are smaller than uppercut bags but larger than the two, and are unusually shaped. These bags are designed to help improve mobility, especially when it comes to head movements.
What should you look for in the best punching bag for your needs?
There are so many different types of punching bags available, each with its own value. If you are interested in improving your speed, double ended and speed bags could be ideal. If you are looking to boost your footwork and mobility, uppercut bags and maize bags might be a better fit. If you are looking to build your stamina and strength, heavy bags would be the go to choice. For people with limited space or children, freestanding bags could be a better fit. But what should you look for in an ideal punching bag beyond the type? We explore a few of the top questions to help you find an ideal pick.
How much do you weigh?
As a general rule of thumb, your punching bag should not be heavier than you. In fact, an ideal bag should be about half your weight. If you weigh 200 lbs., a 100 lbs. bag would be ideal. You could even round it down slightly without losing any value for your workout.
What are you looking to achieve?
Your goals will dictate the type of bag that is ideal for your needs. It would be tough to build up your power on a speed bag!
Are you an expert or a novice fighter?
If you are just starting out, you may not yet have optimum power and technique. You will need to build these up with a bag workout, which means that you could consider a lighter and more affordable option for starters.
How much space do you have?
If you have sufficient space in your home, a heavy hanging bag will do. If you will have to consider an outside arrangement, you need to find a bag that can resist the weather. People with very limited space might consider smaller or freestanding bags.
Will punching bag workout offer any value?
Are you interested in a punching bag? The effects of a punching bag workout on your health and fitness could be immense. Punching bags work well for the whole family, provided they are used safely. Here are a few benefits of incorporating a punching bag workout into your daily routine.
Improved aerobic fitness
When training on your punching bag with the right intensity, your cardiovascular system will begin to feel the effects. Simply practicing your movement around your bag, even when you aren’t throwing punches, could equate to a low intensity workout. The punching bag will facilitate high intensity aerobic activity at home, allowing you to boost your fitness easily. For best value, we recommend 2-3 minutes of high intensity punching, followed by 2 minutes of movement carried out repeatedly.
Better coordination, technique and core strength
Boxing training is very intensive, and the right punching bag workout will reflect this. As you practice different combinations and movements around the heavy bag, you will be able to improve your coordination. You may no longer have to look where you punch with this workout. Bags will help build up your core strength as well. Different workouts will help you to build up your endurance and strength, with the intensive exertion that is part of boxing helping to optimize your core strength. By hitting the bag regularly, you will also be able to punch more naturally and with the right technique. You will no longer push punch, landing proper punches instead.
Greater power
While this is largely limited to heavy and uppercut bags, you can develop your power through an ideal bag workout. When punching, the bag will work your shoulders, arms, chest, waist and legs. Depending on the type of shots landed, you may be able to build up power across different parts of your body. It is important to note that while the bag doesn’t throw punches, it does fight back. Any punches that do land may generate impact, which may cause injuries in your hands and wrists. If you start to feel pain and soreness after a heavy bag workout, or are experiencing cuts, you need to go back to the basics and reduce your intensity. You should also consider finding the right boxing gloves to help you out.
Final word
If you are looking for where to buy a punching bag, there are many trustworthy online platforms that could help you meet your match. Different gear brands will offer boxing punching bags on Amazon and other similar markets, with great perks to protect your purchase. You can find an affiliate that stocks boxing gear near you, although they may lack the variety available online. You will be able to find the best punching bag for your needs if you know what to look for, and this detailed guide can come in handy. Remember to follow the punching bag basics for full value from your workout.