AboutAlan Kahn Expertise I can answer any questions concerning speed bag training, including equipment, setup, 24 punching techniques from all around the bag, creating non-stop combinations and martial arts training on the speed bag. Also, unique and advanced speed bag training such joining a speed bag with stationary cycles, stepping machines and rehabilitation.
Experience Author of the " Speed Bag Bible" book and video training program.
Publications Black Belt Magazine ( 1991 ) and Martial Arts Training magazine (1998)
Education/Credentials Masters degrees in Recreation Therapy and Rehabilitation counseling
Awards and Honors Appeared in 1996 Olympics, doing speed bag demonstrations and seminars for security forces during the games. Invited to tour and demonstrate speed bag throughout China. Most major Boxing companies carry this program as THE source for speed bag training.
Question I am interested in training with a heavy bag for fitness purposes only. I am 42 years old, 6', 230lbs. I have good lower body strength, but not upper body.
What size bag should I buy?
Is there any other advice you can offer, or websites you can direct me to? I do not plan to box or do martial arts, just work out.
Thanks!
Answer HI Jason,
I think you could use a bag of 100-120 lbs. You don't need a super heavy bag, particularly if you will focus on punching and not kicking. You could probably start out with a lighter 80lb bag, but will probably do better with a 100lb model. Personally, I prefer the soft core or water versions as they are more forgiving on the amatuer hands. Something like this below, but there are various brands to chose from.
