Punching bags are always the most important sports accessory for getting training for punching strength, keeping focus, learning counter striking, and improving the kicking strength. No matter whether you need one for exercise purposes or for strength training, you need to know exactly what to look for while making a purchase.
Ranging from the types of punching bags to the features like weight and material, you should know about everything whenever you purchase one for yourself. As it will cost you a fortune, it is best to do your research before spending funds. So if you are thinking about what punching bag you should get, read the below article for a full guide.
Types of punching bags
First of all, you should know for what specific purpose you need a punching bag. Whether you need to do a strength exercise to make your fists and punch stronger or you need one for kick training. Determining your training goals is the first step.
There is a different type of model for every purpose, so it is best to think deeply about the purpose of purchasing. There is also an all-rounder model for all the purposes. Check out the different types of punching bags below and read the details underneath.
They are available in the below-listed types in the market:
Various Heavy Bags
A heavy punching bag is ideal for strength training and muscle toning. To develop your fist muscles and make your punch stronger, heavy bags should be purchased.
Water or traditional models are available.
The water-filled bag (aqua punching bag) offers more kickback, least damage to the hand, and gives a filling as if you were hitting a real human body.
Traditional heavy bags are normally filled with grain, sand, rags, or other materials and are usually suspended or affixed to a stand. These bags usually last for years without breaking despite repeated and constant physical abuse.
You can find free-standing heavy bags and traditional hanging bags. A free-standing bag is ideal for punching and kicking exercises, making it an all-rounder. So, they are suitable for MMA and other martial arts.
The hanging punch bags from the ceilings are beneficial for punching workouts. Hence, this type is better for boxing training. They should be mounted correctly on the ceiling or a wall frame with chains for safe usage.
Note: You want enough room around the bag so it can swing back and forth without being in your face. You should practice the various boxing movements and hit the bag from every angle.
Looking for the best heavy punching bag for your home?
If you’re just getting started in the sport of boxing, then this is a good place to find the perfect piece for your home.
What punching bag size should I get?
How heavy should a punching bag be? The rule is to get a heavy bag that is half of your weight. Therefore, it won’t be too static or too swinging. Such punching bag weight will stand a powerful punch and move to practice offensive and defensive boxing skills. That is an optimal weight for resistance training.
Shorter bag sizes 3-4 feet long will do for boxing workouts since we only punch them. That length is enough to practice head, body punches, and boxing combinations.
If you do martial arts such as MMA, kickboxing, or Muay Thai, you need a longer bag, 5-7 feet long, to practice kicks and knees. Keep in mind that this equipment requires a stronger and higher anchor point.
You can also buy an adjustable height punching bag, such as Powercore, in case others in your family want to train and have no place for hanging. They are covered with foam, so safer for hands. It’s perfect for youth boxers or anyone starting any combat sports.
Uppercut Bag
An uppercut is a type of heavy bag but in a smaller package. It is used for practicing waist striking. It also needs more space for moving around, so purchase this one if space is not an issue.
This type of bag is better for uppercuts and hooks. We can also use it for straight punches. Experienced boxers mainly use it to develop stronger punches.
Speed Bag
Speed punching bags come in the lightweight category of equipment that is used to train the martial artists of timing, reaction time, rhythm, and not of strength. They are air-filled punching bags and so kick back with as much strength as you hit it with. This trains the fighters in hand-eye coordination and speed.
Read more about speed bags: https://punchingbagsguide.com/best-speed-bags-tips/
Double-Ended Bag
Such equipment resembles a ball tied from both sides, one to the floor and another to the ceiling and itself lying in-between. It trains the athlete for counter striking and resembles the functionality of a speed bag depicting the opponent hitting back. They require permanent mounting, so dedicated floor space is required.
There are various double-end bags depending on the size of the ball. The smaller it is, the harder it is to place punches on it, so it develops accuracy. Since it moves quite unpredictably, it mimes the moving of a real opponent well. I really recommend it to improve your boxing skill level.
It’s also a great aerobic exercise since it forces us to move around while hitting.
Learn more about double end bags here: https://punchingbagsguide.com/best-double-end-bags-guide/
Teardrop bag
Work on body hooks and uppercuts with bags with a teardrop shape. These bags aren’t just good at throwing uppercuts, body punches, and hooks; you can also kick, kneel, and elbow them. The bag swing will vary based on your materials to fill the bag.
Note: Always wear boxing gloves when hitting a heavy bag!
The punching bag weights
Appropriate weight should be selected because a too heavy bag would cause damage to the knuckles and fingers of the user. Also, a too much lighter bag would not provide the required strength and resistance needed for training.
The weight of the equipment should be decided based on the weight and height of the particular user. For example, for an average male user, height 5’10” and weighing 190 lbs. a 50 to 70 pounds weighing model should be ideal.
For males smaller than that and beginners, lighter equipment would be perfect, and for taller males, a heavier bag would also work. But it is best to stay under the mark of 100 lbs.
Watch the following video for more buying tips on size and shape.
The athletes who need different weights depending on the workouts should go for water-filled models as they can vary the weight of the bag by adding or removing the water.
A heavier option is the best choice for heavy hitters and power punching practitioners. Instead of getting a punching bag size that is half your weight, you can get one that is 20-30% heavier than your body weight.
As for the other boxing bags are concerned, all of them are somewhat standardized and rarely need to be adjusted.
The materials
Along with the weight, the material used in the bag also leaves a variable user experience. It is important to select a proper material based on the specificity of the workout for a better workout experience.
Quality leather punching bags are more in demand because of their soft and comfortable feel with a pain-free experience. But leather products are usually more expensive.
The other option is the vinyl bag or synthetic leather. The cost of vinyl and synthetic models would be less, but the feel and experience would not be the same.
You can also buy canvas punching bags covered with specific, durable canvas. These are cheaper options, so perfect for people on a budget.
I hope this buyer’s guide has helped you pick the right type of punching bag to have a killer home boxing gym. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below.
