Expert: Alan Kahn - 2/25/2008

Question
Hi,

I'm 6 foot 1 inch tall and weight 350 lbs (not muscle unfortunately) and was wondering how heavy a bag i should buy.  I doubt i hit all that hard but have been told the standard is half you body weight.  So I'm wondering what weight i should buy.

thanks

Answer
Hi Aaron,

Wow, 6-1 and 350lbs. You are a big guy! I'm gonna guess that 120-150 would be big enough. you can find some that size here http://www.ringside.com/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=2383
and I suggest getting a soft fill style.  or perhaps this water-foam style http://www.ringside.com/detail.aspx?ID=25875

You probably hit harder than you think, but I don't think you would need a bag over 150lbs.

now also remember that where and how you can hang your bang might also impact the size of the bag you buy. It takes a very strong connection to a wall or ceiling to hang a 150 lb, and hold the force and momentum of it swinging.

And don't forget to get handwraps and high quality bag gloves.
I suggest these or a similiar style.
http://www.ringside.com/boxinggloves.aspx?CategoryID=2368

protect your hands with high quality gloves. this is particularly important if you are rather new at this and not under the eye of a trainer. It is very easy to sprain a thumb or jam a finger if you are not punching properly or wearing good protection.

Good luck with your bag and your training.

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible