Different punching bags have varying functions, pros and cons that you should be aware of before deciding which one suits you best.
There are several factors you should keep in mind when choosing the best bag for yourself, they include the type, material, size and firmness of the bag.
This article will explore some factors that determine the suitability of a punch bag and provide a guide on how to pick the best one.
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
  | Outslayer Filled Punching Bag 100 lbs | Check Price |
  | Century Original Wavemaster Heavy Punching Bag | Check Price |
  | Jayefo Sports Punching Bag | Check Price |
  | ZXQZ Pedestal Bags Splitter Punching Bag | Check Price |
  | Fairtex Angle Heavy Bag | Check Price |
Table of Contents
Types of Punching Bags
There are different types of punching bags for different purposes, some are best suited for kick training, whereas others can be used to strengthen your fist and punch. It is therefore advisable to establish the aim of your training before you go shopping for a heavy punch bag.
Whether it’s for Muay Thai, boxing or MMA, the type of bag you choose should also consider the combat sports discipline you are practising. There are also a variety of bag types you can choose from; punching bags with stands, freestanding, uppercut, speed bag & aqua bag. All of these bag types serve a distinct purpose.
The common categories are:
Heavy hanging Punching bag
These bags are often suspended from the ceiling, more durable and can handle high force. Thus, they are appropriate for training for power punches, stamina and enhancing your general technique.
Freestanding punching bag
These bags are placed on a heavy base and can be moved from one location to another. Therefore, they are suitable for people with limited space and are good for training for kicks.
These bags can arrive either filled or unfilled. When you choose an unfilled bag, you will need to add the padding yourself, the usual way to do this us by filling it with water or sand.
Speedball
A speedball is best for enhancing shoulder and arm strength, as well as cultivating your timing. It can help users better their punching speed and enhance endurance.
Double-ended
Double ended bags are like a ball suspended by tying it from both sides, to the floor and to the ceiling. Its unpredictable movement resembles a moving opponent well, hence it is used to train for counter striking.
Wall-mounted
Wall mounted bags take up minimal space, hence, more suited for enclosed environments. Conversely, they can be harder on the hands and limit the number of punches one can throw.
Uppercut bag
Though uppercut bags are designed for training for uppercut punches, they can also be used for other kinds of punches.
Wrecking ball
A wrecking ball punching bag has a spherical shape that allow users to throw a variety of shots such as uppercuts and hooks. Its height can also be adjusted to accommodate different types of body shots and can be used for practising different sorts of kicks.
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Outslayer Filled Punching Bag 100 lbs | Check Price |
| Century Original Wavemaster Heavy Punching Bag | Check Price |
| Jayefo Sports Punching Bag | Check Price |
| ZXQZ Pedestal Bags Splitter Punching Bag | Check Price |
| Fairtex Angle Heavy Bag | Check Price |
Materials
Leather
Leather is relatively expensive, hence, bags made of genuine leather are often more costly. Leather provides a comfortable and soft feel, giving the user a painless experience. It is also more durable, looks good and has a great smell. Therefore, if you can afford it, it is advisable to buy a leather bag.
Synthetic Leather
Synthetic leather resembles leather in terms of how it looks and feels, but it is cheaper than leather. However, unlike real leather, it lacks long-term durability.
Canvas
Because of its relatively low cost, punching bags made of canvas are cheap. However, their durability is not guaranteed, as canvas tears and wears quickly. Additionally, canvas does not feel great against the skin, it is challenging to clean and damages the boxing gloves.
Plastic
Plastic it typically thick and rubbery and works best in specialized punching bags such as aqua bags. It is nonetheless not suitable for heavy bags.
Size
Size is an important consideration when choosing a suitable punching bag, you need a bag that can compliments your power and size. A bag that is too small tends to swing too uncontrollably when hit hard, whereas one that is too large can prove challenging when training on the technique. The available space also determines the size of punching bag you can purchase.
Height
For a bag that is to be mounted to the ceiling, you must watch the length of the chain to ensure it suits your needs. Some bags allow the user to adjust the height for different uses.
Weight
The general rule of thumb is that a punch bag should be half the user’s body weight. This is to ensure that you are safe when hitting it as well as provide the right amount of resistance. Weight is an essential consideration when picking a suitable punching bag because; if it is too light, it will not avail the appropriate resistance and strength, and if it is too heavy, it may harm your fingers and knuckles.
Firmness
A firm punching bag is most suitable for enhancing your punching power. However, it does not have to be too firm, as this may harm your wrists and knuckles. Thus, a degree of softness is recommended for a bag to be safe to hit
Filling
Punching bags can either be filled or unfilled. Some pre-filled punching bags allow the user to adjust its firmness by providing a zip for adding or removing the filling. Some however do not have this allowance, and you must remove the stitching to access the filling. Unfilled bags, on the other hand, give the user full control over certain features such as the filling material, weight and firmness. When choosing the type of filling for your punching bag, consider one that is best for the environment. The types of fill in a punch bag determines its comfort, weight, cost and even firmness of the bag. Some common punching bag fillers are:
Textile
Using rags to fill bags reduces waste, making it environmentally friendly. Additionally, textile is lighter and softer, therefore allowing an optimum level of firmness that reduces muscle strain on the user.
Sand
Sand is the most appropriate filler if you want your punching bag to be heavy. It is also easy to fill into any container and causes minimal mess in case of leakage. However, it is hardness changes if it’s exposed to moisture, and it may leak out of the bags if they are of poor quality.
Water
Water is readily available, hence appropriate for filling heavy bags. Water-filled bags are also safe to hit and easy on the joints.
Air
Air is a cheap filler and best suited for those who require light bags and quick reflex bags like speedballs. Conversely, air-filled bags deflate with time and need to be constantly refilled.
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