Expert: Alan Kahn - 9/2/2010

Question
Hi Alan. I had a cheap Everlast Speed Bag set and recently upgraded the Platform and purchased The Super Swivel from Ringside, and now would like to upgrade my speed bag. I am using the one that came with the set (which I guess is probably not that good). Could you give me some recommendations. From what I have read on various sites, I assume that smaller bags are faster then larger ones.
Thanks

Answer
Hi Steve,

Sorry for being late getting back to you. I was out over Labor day and didn't change my settings here.  

You are correct in the smaller bags are generally faster due to a shorter rebound arc.  

The bag that came with that set is probably a 9x6 or 10x7 mid-size bag, and I would recommend getting an 8x5 if you want to go faster, or even smaller, depending on your skill level.  If you are a beginner the smaller faster bags can make learning difficult due to control issues.

I have been using several 8x5 size bags from Titleboxing and have been very pleased with them.  here is a link http://store.titleboxing.com/speed-bags-platforms.html

Any of the 8x5's here are very good.  The smaller Title platinum atomic is being used by some of the faster guys I know and they seem to really like it.
http://store.titleboxing.com/title-platinum-atomic-speed-bags.html
Be aware it is smaller than 8x5 so it's super fast.

lately I have been using the Title gyro balanced 8x5 and like it a lot.
http://store.titleboxing.com/title-gyro-balanced-speed-bag.html
Personally I prefer the 8x5 size over the smaller ones. It just feels better to me.  

I also have the fighting sports bag (white) and find it very smooth and fast. http://store.titleboxing.com/fighting-sports-pro-speed-bag.html

I think you would be happy with any of the bags listed above for they are quality products and the company stands behind them if you get a lemon, which is not likely - but it happens.  There are also other very high quality bags around (check Everlast  http://www.everlast.com/Pro-Speed-Bags/products/1305/
and Ringside boxing http://www.ringside.com/products.asp?dept=20

but I love the shape and action of the bags I listed.

If a smaller bag is a bit too fast for controlling it, I suggest taking a bit of air out of it. If it is slightly underinflated it will still be fine and be a bit slower until you can control it well enough to go faster.  Remember, the secret to the "speed" bag is making it a "control" bag.  speed will come naturally as your control improves and you really don't have to try to go fast. The just sort of shows up.

Good luck with your purchase and again, my apologies for the late reply.

sincerely

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible