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Speed bags are an essential part of a boxer's training. However, speed bags can also be used for anyone who is learning boxing or MMA, or for those who are looking to improve their coordination, stamina and reflexes.
In this article, we'll go through the different types of speed bags that are available, and then discuss the advantages of using a speed bag to train.
Skip to the list of best speed bags here.
Boxing speed bags are versatile training devices used by boxers, martial artists, and athletes to improve punching power, hand-eye coordination, and condition the entire body. They're a staple in any boxing gym - or anywhere that athletes train.
Boxing speed bags consist of a heavy bag suspended by chains from the ceiling and a platform to stand on while punching it. Sometimes, the platforms have handles for greater stability during workouts.
Boxing speed bags are used to improve the following:
Hand-eye coordination
Speed bags are primarily used to improve the speed and coordination of one's hands. It is recommended that you start off with a light-weight bag before moving to heavier ones in order to not strain your wrists too much while practicing.
Punching power
Speed bags are great for improving the punching power of your punches. When you use a speed bag, it will swing back and forth constantly so that you can practice hitting the bags repeatedly to strengthen muscles in your arms and shoulders.
Body condition
Speedbags are also used for conditioning purposes because they require an individual to be very active while using them-- swinging their hands as fast as possible.
Cardiovascular endurance
Carido is also improved because a person will be moving their hands and arms as fast as they can for extended periods of time.
Balance
Speed bags are also great for improving your balance because you may be standing on one leg while holding the other in a tight position to maintain stability.
Instinct
Speed bags require you to use instinct and rhythm. Both aspects are important when competing as they allow a boxer to anticipate what their opponent is doing and respond quickly.
The Everlast speed bag is the perfect training tool for anyone looking to improve their hand-eye coordination, timing and reflexes. This speed bag is made of high quality leather and will stand up to everyday training. The medium size speed bag is a great choice for intermediate users; while the large size is best suited for advanced users. The top grade leather on these bags will not only withstand the test of time, but it also gives this product a professional look that can be used in any gym or studio setting.
The MaxxMMA Speed Bag is the best training equipment for developing speed, timing and accuracy. It enhances punching skills such as hand-eye coordination, rhythm and timing. This bag features a dimension of 10” x 7” which makes it ideal for all ages and skill levels. The MaxxMMA Speed Bag is perfectly balanced to offer blazing speed with true rebounds. It comes with a hand pump with needle included in the package.
Meister's SpeedKills Series is a high-quality speed bag that offers the perfect combination of durability, quality and performance. The genuine full-grain cowhide leather construction is built to last, while the lightweight inner latex bladder provides faster performance. Balanced and centered for predictable and consistent rebounds, this premium design is a great addition to any gym or home.
FISTRAGE Speed Ball Boxing Bag Leather is made up of top-grade Microfiber Artificial Leather, reinforced seams and robust lacing, the FISTRAGE Speed Ball is built to last your multiple training sessions. It comes with a mounting hardware that can be easily installed on any ceiling. The Premium Microfiber leather for extreme durability and balanced design with long-lasting bladder for optimal rebounds during fitness trainings make it an excellent choice at an affordable price.
The CLETO REYES speed bag is a professional training tool used for reflex and coordination practice. The smaller one for experts, the larger one for beginners. The leather head makes it more durable than other models in the market. It has a nylon lining to make it last longer than other brands.
The RDX Speed Ball is a patent pending speed ball that provides lightning fast rebound accuracy. Each ball is individually shaped and balanced for maximum performance. The tough construction will last through years of training while the lightweight design makes it easy to hang anywhere. The double-lined hanging strap discourages splitting, and the riveted attachment provides superior durability.
-Basic:
Start off with a light-weight bag and swing your hands in front of the speedbag. Be sure to keep your arms at shoulder height while swinging, and be sure not to use extra weight when punching or you will strain your wrists too much.
-Advanced:
Begin by standing on one leg and holding the other tightly against your body so that it doesn't move as you practice hitting the boxing speed bags for an extended period of time-- this is a challenging exercise which works out various muscles groups including those in both arms, thighs, calves, abs, back and shoulders. Repeat five times before switching legs.
-Use a heavier bag for more advanced exercises as your punching power and speed will increase. It is recommended that you only use heavy bags once you have an understanding of how to properly hit the light weight ones because they are hard on your wrists when practicing. Be sure not to punch too hard or it can strain your joints-- this goes along with any boxing workout!
-When using lighter weight bags, you can wrap them in either towels or clothing so that there isn't much movement while you're hitting them.
-Light bags should be hit at a faster pace in order to help increase punching power, while heavy bags can be practiced for an extended period of time-- with heavier weight comes slower movements and increased strength.
-Use a heavier bag for more advanced exercises since greater power will be reached due to increased strength. Lightweight bags should be used for a more extended period of time-- heavy weight requires slower movements which can last longer than light weights.
-When using speed bags, it is important not to use too much extra weight when you're punching because it will cause wrist strain if done repeatedly without proper technique or knowledge regarding what your body can handle (it's always best to start off on lighter weights).
-It is important to replace worn out speedbags before continuing workouts: they become less and less effective the more they are used. The lifespan of your bag may decrease if you're not careful with it-- which will result in slower movements or decreased punching power over time (a good rule of thumb is after a year, they may need to be retired).
Q: Are there any long-term effects from punching a padded boxing speedbag?
A: It is important not to use too much extra weight when you're punching because it will cause wrist strain if done repeatedly without proper technique or knowledge regarding what your body can handle.
Q: What are the benefits of speed bags?
A: Speed bags are great for increasing punching power and speed, improving your balance (balance is important in boxing), working out various muscle groups including those in both arms, thighs, calves, abs, back and shoulders. They also require instinct-- which can be useful when competing as it allows a boxer to anticipate what their opponent might do next.
Q: What should I wear when practicing with speed bags?
A: You should always make sure you have gloves on before using boxing speedbags because they are hard and can cause skin damage. When punching, a person's wrists bend back at an angle which puts them in direct contact with the bag-- causing friction as well as pain if done too often without wrapping your hands or wearing proper gear to protect them from this effect. It is also important that one does not punch too hard while working out (even more so for light weight bags) because it may strain elbows and joints by doing so repeatedly over time.
Everlast
Everlast is one of the most well-known boxing equipment brands in the world, and is a reputable company that has been supplying quality products since 1910. They are known for their excellent variety of gear including speed bags as well as punching gloves (among other things).
Ringside
Ringside is a great boxing equipment company that has been providing top of the line products for more than 60 years. They are a reputable and trustworthy brand, which means you won't have to worry about your speed bags breaking or not living up to their expectations-- in fact, they're guaranteed (within 12 months) if it happens!
Title
Title is another boxing equipment company that has been providing top of the line products for 70 years. They are known to produce high quality speed bags and punching gloves, among other things.
Century
Century is one of the most well-known boxing equipment brands in the world, and is a reputable company that has been supplying quality products since 1998. They are known for their excellent variety of gear including speed bags as well as punching gloves (among other things).
Speed bags are mounted on platforms. For a guide on how to mount your speed bag, click here!
Speed bags are great for increasing punching power and speed, improving your balance (balance is important in boxing), working out various muscle groups including those in both arms, thighs, calves, abs, back and shoulders. They also require instinct-- which can be useful when competing as it allows a boxer to anticipate what their opponent might do next.
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