Fighters hit a variety of punching bags when they are trying to get into shape or preparing for a boxing match. The speed bag and the floor-to-ceiling bags are all fairly similar. However, the heavy bag comes in a variety sizes and weights. While smaller fighters tend to use smaller heavy bags, each fighter has different goals and needs a heavy bag that fits what he is trying to accomplish.
40-pound Bag
The 40-pound bag is often used by amateur fighter or boxers who are 130 lbs. or lighter. This bag will not provide the resistance of a heavier bag, but it will test a lighter fighter's ability to deliver a series of power punches for three minutes at a time. Once amateur fighters can got through a three-minute drill of punching the 40-pound heavy bag without exhausting themselves, they can move up to a heavier bag.
75- to 80-pound Bag
This bag is appropriate for fighters over 130 lbs. and up to about 175 lbs. This is a medium-sized heavy bag and while heavyweight fighters will use larger bags, this bag will test a fighter's punching ability, build power and also help increase endurance. One of the keys to hitting the heavy bag successfully is to use your entire body when punching. This is particularly true of a bag this size or bigger because you need to incorporate your legs, hips, core muscles and upper body in addition to your arms if you are going to get the most out of your workout.
90- to 100-pound Bag
This bag is often used by fighters at the cruiserweight and heavyweight levels who are looking to develop a powerful knockout punch. Cruiserweight fighters are usually 175- to 200 lbs., while heavyweights are 200 lbs. or more. Bigger fighters need the greater resistance to develop the type of power punch that can punish an opponent. As with the 75- to 80-pound bag, the fighters need to use their full body to get the most out of the workout and to avoid injuries.
Types of Material
Heavy bags are filled with three different types of material. They include the hard-fill bag that is usually filled with shredded rubber, the soft-fill bag that is filled with shredded rubber and foam and the water-filled bag. The hard-fill bag is the toughest on the hands and joints. The soft-fill bag is better for fighters who have had hand and joint injuries while the water-filled bag is an effective test of endurance and also benefits those who have had hand and knuckle injuries.
Member Comments