Certain situations don't facilitate suspending a punching bag from the ceiling structure. When this occurs, the answer could be an upright support with an overhead arm. The first item of business with an upright that carries weight is the foundation, which might take a bit of doing if you're still intent on working out indoors. However, a concrete foundation and steel pipe support system can be installed outside in just about any area that has ample room to move around the bag.
Step 1
Dig a post hole 12 inches in diameter and 48 inches deep using the post hole tool. Thread one of the ninety fittings on the end of the 12-foot length of 3-inch steel pipe using a pipe wrench. The fitting does not have to be extremely tight. Stand this pipe section in the center of the hole with the fitting at the top.
Step 2
Mix the post-hole concrete to a stiff consistency. Use the level to plumb the pipe section and shovel the concrete into the hole. Overfill the hole about 1/4 inch to allow for shrinkage when the concrete dries. Turn the pipe so the opening in the ninety fitting is facing the direction where the bag will hang. Brace the pipe in the plumb position if necessary and allow the concrete to cure overnight.
Step 3
Thread the other ninety fitting on the end of the 6-foot long piece of 3-inch steel pipe using the pipe wrench. The fitting does not have to be extremely tight. Drill a 1/2-inch hole in the center of the ABS clean-out plug. Insert the eye bolt into the hole and thread the nut and washer on the bolt to hold it in place in the plug. Thread the plug into the ninety fitting on the 6-foot length of pipe with the eye bolt exposed.
Step 4
Thread the open end of the 6-foot length of pipe into the fitting at the top of the steel pole. Use the pipe wrench and turn the length of pipe until it is relatively tight and the ABS plug with the eye bolt is facing down. Clip the chain from the punching bag to the eye bolt.
Tips and Warnings
- Core a concrete patio slab and install the footing and support under a covered patio. Stabilize the steel pole with small pieces of concrete or stones around the base before pouring the concrete.
- In loose soil conditions, dig a 24-inch diameter post hole and mix 3/4-inch gravel with the concrete batch. Have a spotter hold the ladder when working overhead.
Things You'll Need
- Post-hole tool
- Concrete post hole mix
- Concrete mixing tub
- Shovel
- 4-foot level
- 3-inch diameter threaded steel pipe, 12 feet long
- 3-inch threaded steel pipe, 6 feet long
- 3-inch ninety fittings, 2 each
- 3-inch ABS clean-out plug
- Pipe wrench
- Electric drill
- 1/2-inch drill bit
- 1-inch diameter threaded eye bolt
Member Comments