A good boxer holds many weapons in his arsenal, and uses various training devices in the gym that develop particular aspects of overall ability. While increasing your boxing skill requires dedication and discipline, certain practices can definitely improve your results. There are many types of boxing bags available, and knowing how to use each one can prove invaluable to the development of your skills as a fighter.
Uppercut Bag
An uppercut bag is a shortened version of the traditional heavy bag, and is suspended, horizontally, from the ceiling by two ropes, one tied to each end. It is a training device used to refine and enhance your command of the punch for which it is named. Hang your bag so that the uppermost part falls at eye level. This positions the striking area in the ideal location to execute your punches correctly. Facing the bag, at a distance of no more than 12-18 inches, assume you normal boxing stance. Deliver the "up-shot" by extending your attacking hand, upward and outward, toward the underside of the bag. Use the muscles in your legs, hips, and mid-section to generate power. Avoid the temptation to lower your arm excessively during delivery, or "drag it from the floor" in boxing parlance. You will produce more force by throwing the punch in a direct line of contact. Once you hit the bag, immediately return the hand thrown to the side of your face. Follow by launching the opposite hand in the same manner. Continue alternating in this way, sometimes throwing two or three punches with the same hand before switching. Work the bag for four or six three-minute rounds, taking a one-minute period of rest between each.
Body-Punching Drill
This exercise is performed on a bag often known as the "wrecking ball." It is a large, stuffed, leather-bound sphere suspended from the ceiling by a single chain. You can use the wrecking ball to improve your ability to throw swift, powerful punches to your opponent's midsection. Begin by facing the bag, at the same distance you would an opponent when fighting. Using both hands, assault the sides and center portion of the wrecking ball with hooks and uppercuts, remembering to keep your form exact, and your stance tight. Work on producing concentrated force within smaller spaces. Circle the bag, attacking at various angles and speed. Do this for four three-minute rounds.
Straight Punches
This is a drill that, over time, helps you improve both the speed and accuracy of your straight punches. Position yourself in front of a conventional-style heavy bag, weighing between 70 and 200 pounds. Begin by striking the bag with your forward-hand jab, stepping into the blow with your rear leg to generate power. Immediately after, pull the jab back to its starting position and, simultaneously, shoot your power hand straight forward into the bag. Continue alternating between left and right, leaving as little time between each strike as possible. Gather the force of each punch from your legs an abdomen, before delivering it into the bag by hardening the chest, shoulder, and arm muscles required. At first, do this drill during the final 30 seconds of each round. When you can complete that task easily, bring the time up to one minute. Eventually, attempt to perform this drill for the entire duration of two regulation rounds, at the end of your daily bag work.
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