How to choose and install your punching bag?
CHOOSING YOUR PUNCHING BAG:
Choosing the right punching bag is essential for effective and safe training. Here are the main criteria to consider to make the right choice:
Punching bag type:
- Classic Punching Bag : This is the standard hanging bag, ideal for working on punches and kicks. It is suitable for boxing, kickboxing, muay-thai, etc.
- Freestanding punching bag : A bag mounted on a base filled with water or sand. It is easier to move and does not require fixing. Ideal for small spaces or for those who do not want to drill into their walls or ceilings.
- Pear : Used primarily to work on speed, coordination, and rhythm. This bag is lighter and often attaches to a platform.
- Uppercut Punching Bag : A more compact bag, designed specifically for practicing uppercuts and hooks.
- Double-end bag : A small bag connected to the floor and ceiling by elastic bands. It is excellent for improving accuracy and reflexes.
Bag weight:
- In general : The heavier the bag, the more stable it will be and the less it will move with each shot. However, a bag that is too heavy may be too stiff for beginners.
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Recommended weight :
- For English boxing, a 30 to 50 kg bag is ideal.
- For kickboxing or Muay Thai, where kicks are also thrown, a 50-70 kg bag is recommended.
- Level : A lighter bag (20 to 30 kg) is sufficient for beginners or those who want to work mainly on speed.
Covering material:
- Leather : Leather is durable, pleasant to the touch and resistant. It is the preferred material of professional boxers, but it is also more expensive.
- Polyurethane (PU) : Looks like leather but is more affordable. It is often used in good quality punching bags.
Bag size:
- For English boxing : A bag of 90 to 120 cm is generally sufficient.
- For kickboxing or muay thai : A longer bag (150 to 180 cm) is preferable to be able to strike at different heights, including low kicks.
- For children or beginners : A bag of 60 to 90 cm is suitable.
Training objectives:
- Power : A heavy bag is recommended.
- Speed and Accuracy : A lightweight bag, such as a bean bag or double-end bag, is best.
- Endurance : A medium-sized, moderate-weight bag allows you to work on the duration of sessions.
Setting up and attaching a boxing punching bag at home requires a little preparation to ensure safety and durability. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Materials needed:
Punching bag : Choose a punching bag suited to your practice (size, weight, type of filling, see above).
Mounting bracket : Can be a wall bracket, a jib or a ceiling bracket.
Hanging chains : To attach the bag to the support.
Carabiner : To connect the chains to the bag.
Drill : For making holes in the wall or ceiling.
Suitable anchors and screws : Depending on the material (concrete, wood, etc.) where you are going to fix the support.
Installation steps:
Choice of location:
- Clearance : Make sure you have enough space around the bag to move freely and practice your shots safely.
- Solid ceiling or wall : Ideally, attach the bag to a concrete or solid wood structure. Drywall or plasterboard partitions cannot support the weight and impacts of the bag.
Installing the mounting bracket:
- Marking the fixing points : Use the tape measure and level to mark the points where you will drill the holes for the bracket. Make sure it is straight.
- Drilling : Drill the holes at the marked locations.
- Fixing the dowels : Insert the appropriate dowels into the drilled holes. If you are drilling into solid wood, you can fix the screws directly.
- Fixing the bracket : Screw the wall or ceiling bracket securely.
Hanging the punching bag:
- Attaching the chains : Attach the chains to the rings of the punching bag. Most bags already have metal rings for this.
- Attaching the chains to the bracket : Use a carabiner to connect the chains to the bracket attached to the wall or ceiling.
- Height Adjustment : Check that the bag is hanging at the desired height and adjust the chains if necessary.
Strength test:
- Final check : Before you start using the bag, pull it, push it and give it a few light taps to test its attachment. Make sure everything is securely in place and the bracket does not move.
Regular maintenance:
- Periodic Check : Regularly check the fasteners, chains and carabiners to ensure that they do not show any signs of weakness.
- Replacing Worn Parts : Immediately replace any part that shows signs of wear.
With these steps, you should be able to set up and secure your punching bag securely, allowing you to train effectively at home.
