Expert: Alan Kahn - 7/30/2007

Question
Alan,

I am impressed by the answers you gave to other questions.
How high should I set the speed ball? Eye height? Rebound board at my own height? Where on the ball is it best to strike? What type and make/brand would you recommend?

Many thanks.

Conrad Phillips

Answer
Hi Conrad,
The bag height is a question many beginners have, for you mostly see video's in boxing of the boxer punching a bag that is too high!  I think the best height for ANY bag of any size is to line up the belly of the bag (fatest part) with your mouth. see the link below:

Beginner: Bag height and set up:
http://www.speedbagcentral.com/ssp/skill_levels#B

The position allows you to extend the fist straight through to the other side of the bag very easily. I hit from ALL sides: all around the bag, and that requires a position that allows the hands to pass through easily. Higher or lower than this will make that very difficult. IF YOU JUST PUNCH FROM THE FRONT, then it could be a little higher or so, it won't make that much difference, but if it is too high you will practice a poor swinging motion.

Adjust the board height to bring the belly of any size bag to that "mouth" level. Punch the Belly of the bag.

As far as brands, there are many good ones.  I hit Ringside and Titleboxing bags a lot.

Ringside bags
http://www.ringside.com/DETAIL.ASPX?ID=25256


titleboxing  (red 9x6 or yellow 8x5 are great bags)
http://store.titleboxing.com/titlespeedbags1.html

Most are well made and should serve you well.  I recommend buying them in pairs, so if one is "bad" or leaks, you have another right there.  It doesn't happen very often, but just in case....

I hope this helps you and good luck with your training!

sincerely

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible