If you’re a boxer or kickboxer that can’t make it to the gym every day or you’re just looking for a great full body cardio workout you can do at home, a heavy bag can be a great asset. You don’t need a partner and you can hit it hard to build power, fast to build speed, and over and over again to build endurance.
Buying a heavy bag is an investment in your training and fitness, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned martial artist. Heavy bags come in a variety of sizes, materials, and weight capacities, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider when making your purchase.
- Size and weight: Heavy bags are typically available in weights ranging from 40 to 150 pounds. Choose a bag that is appropriate for your size and strength, as well as your training goals. A bag that is too light may not provide enough resistance, while one that is too heavy may be difficult to maneuver.
- Material: Heavy bags are usually made of either leather, synthetic leather, or vinyl. Leather bags are durable and provide a natural feel, but they can be more expensive and require more maintenance. Synthetic leather and vinyl bags are more affordable and low-maintenance, but they may not be as durable.
- Filling: Heavy bags can be filled with various materials, including sand, rags, or foam. Sand is the most traditional filling, but it can shift over time and change the bag’s weight distribution. Rags or foam provide a more consistent weight distribution, but they may break down more quickly.
- Hanging hardware: Make sure the bag you choose comes with sturdy hanging hardware, such as chains or straps, to ensure that it stays securely in place during use.
- Warranty: Consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as well as the reputation of the brand. A good warranty can provide peace of mind in the event of a defect or issue with the bag.
- Price: Heavy bags can range in price from under $100 to over $500. Choose a bag that fits within your budget, but keep in mind that a higher-priced bag may offer better quality and longer lifespan.
By taking these factors into account, you can select a heavy bag that will meet your training needs and provide you with the resistance you need to improve your skills and reach your fitness goals.
Consider Your space
If you own your own home, then you have a few more options than apartment dwellers. But there are still quite a few variables to consider.
Ceiling Mounted Bags
If you have a building with sturdy ceiling joists in a room with lots of space on every side then this is likely the way to go. Obviously, everyone’s place is different so hopefully you can see how to modify these methods to your unique situation
When you mount a bag, in most cases that’s where it’s going to be forever so it’s worth spending some time planning your space.
Mounting A Heavy Bag To The Wall
Freestanding Bags have the benefit of being somewhat mobile, you can move them around the house, even inside and out, however you see fit. But they are more bulky by nature than their hanging counterparts.
If you are hanging your bag outside consider the durability of materials or maybe it’s practical to bring the bag inside when you aren’t using it.
Hanging Bag Styles
Heavier bags are harder to move and are great for working punching power and endurance. Lots of reps on a heavy bag will make those shoulders grow. A lighter bag will move around a bit more, especially if you put it on a longer chain, which is great for practicing footwork and distance control.
Muay Thai Bags
Muay Thai bags are 6 feet long so that you can practice knees and leg kicks easily. The six foot bag is certainly not the only type of bag used in Muay Thai training but it is most likely what someone is talking about if they use that term.
Wrecking Ball Bags
Wrecking ball bags have unusual features that might make one ideal for your home. They come in a variety of weights and sizes, but are usually considerably smaller than a typical boxing style bag. Great for working uppercuts and hooks!
Angle Bags
Another style of bag that is gaining popularity is the angle bag. They feature a “head” region that is wider than the bottom. In addition to allowing powerful uppercuts, there is also an unusual balance to the bag once you start throwing in kicks and knees.
