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 Alan, I am interested in starting to train with a speed bag but I haven't had much luck with any equipment. I recently purchased a 3 piece speed bag set from Everlast featuring a 3/4 inch platform, swivel, and vinyl speed bag. I have already had to return the item once because the vinyl bag has ripped where it hangs by the hook. Also, the hook broke where it hangs from the swivel. I have had my new set up for one day and already the vinyl bag has ripped.
I realize I need to get a nice leather bag but I was wondering if you could make a suggestion for a quality speed bag, swivel, as well as a platform. The platform that came with the set seems to vibrate every time I strike a bag and I can't seem to get a good rhythm.
Are their particular brands you trust? I have been very unimpressed with Everlast, although I realize I probably got what I paid for.
Thank you for your help.
Answer Hi Matt,
Welcome to the world of cheap speed bag equipment. Sorry to hear about your lousy first entry into speed bag training. You are not the first to contact me with negative remarks about the everlast vinyl bags. And the recent cheapo swivels they include with the "economy" set.
I have used all of these and highly recommend them. If you have a problem with a bag they will take it bag and send another. I recommend at the red 9x6 or 10x7 or 11x8. The 11x8 is the largest bag you can use on a 24in board, and may go slightly past the edge on a rebound.
I only use the ones ( Everlast ) at the bottom. I prefer the ball hook, but the other is OK. Just heard to get bag on the chainlink without these Retaining Ring Pliers. http://www.mytoolstore.com/sk/sk03190.html
This one is OK also, but I tape the bag to the bar when I use it so it won't slide.
