Expert: Alan Kahn - 5/23/2008

Question
I've been debating getting a punch bag, but am unsure what bag would be ideal for me as they come in different size weights. I would like to know what different size bags are used for? Many thanks, Karl.

Answer
HI Karl,

when you say you are debating getting a "punching bag", I assume by your reference to weight you mean a heavybag. Yes they come in many sizes, shapes, internal weighting systems, ways to hang them and floor stand models. By asking the you would like to: "...know what different size bags are used for?" - I can tell you that the "size" of the bag can refer to several things:

(1) the weight of the bag.

The come in weights from 40 - 200+ pounds. The biggest difference is in determining the size to buy is YOUR size, your punching ability, How many people will use it, and how your intend to hang it. Also included are the types of outer punching surface covering. Here are some links to heavybags.

types
http://store.titleboxing.com/heavy-bags.html

http://www.ringside.com/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=2383

A gym with lots of boxers or Martial Artists may need a larger, more rugged bag than a single owner. IF you weigh up to 200 pounds I would say an 80-100 pound bag will fit you needs. That also depends on the area you have to hang it, and if you want a material filled bag or water filled model. I would stay with a soft filled perhaps water core bag within the size I mentioned.

Here would be a sample
http://www.ringside.com/detail.aspx?ID=25873

or perhaps this:
http://www.ringside.com/detail.aspx?ID=25775

(2) Size of the bag also could be the bag diameter (around) and length.  

Some bags are skinny and long, called Thai bags or "banana bags". The are longer so they hang closer to the floor, so martial artists can use them for low thigh of shin level kicks.

sample
http://www.ringside.com/detail.aspx?ID=25877
http://store.titleboxing.com/title-classic-banana-heavy-bag.html

The thinnner bags also tend to spin a bit if hit off center, as well as buckle a bit when hit in hard in the center. But this kind of bag works fine for it's intent with martial artists.  Thin long bags are usually not a boxer's choice, for there are no kicks in boxing so the standard "boxer" heavy bag is shorter and the bottom is much farther from the ground. They are also fatter around, offering a more forgiving punching target. These fatter bags also tend to have more filling options, as well as outer surface styles, such as canvas, leather or other materials.

A "youth" bag is usually the shortest bag, normally about 40-60 pounds and about half the size of a normal heavy bag.
http://store.titleboxing.com/youth-punching-bags.html


Besides the above you should consider where and how you will hang it, or perhaps go with a freestanding model such as this:
http://www.ringside.com/DETAIL.ASPX?ID=24650

they work very well for the single user of small gym.

So, if you weigh around 200 or less, that is what I would recommend. If you are a big or oversized person, and very strong, hard puncher, than I'd say a 150 pound bag or heavier.

Good luck with your choice and I hope this helps.

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible