Expert: Alan Kahn - 12/5/2005

Question
I'm new to the speed bag. I haven't even bought one yet.  My interest is conditioning, stress relief and the like.  What should I look for in a speed bag?  And do I use those little gloves that come in the speed bag kits, or should I be wrapping my hands?  I need some direction.

Thanks

Answer
Hi Scott,

The speed bag can help with condition and stress relief. Punching A speed bag (or heavy bag..) is an excellent "de-stressing" activity.

What should you look for in a speed bag?  If you are a beginner, Look for a medium size or large bag, Such as an 11x8. They are larger and easier to control. the link below offers some speed bag information, so put it into your web browser address window.

http://www.speedbagcentral.com/ssp/speed_bag_parts#C

and some equipment links to consider:

http://store.titleboxing.com/titlespeedbags1.html

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

http://www.balazsboxing.com/cgi-bin/catalog2.cgi?action=page&page=gear|bags|spee...

the link below offers some online tips for beginners, so put it into your web browser address window.

http://www.speedbagcentral.com/ssp/skill_levels#B

Should you use those gloves that come with an inexpensive bag set?  Well, these are normally a mitten style cheap leather or vinyl glove and I really don't like them. They tend to "slip" off the bag on contact, and are very uncomfortable.  If you have a choice, use handwraps.  Here is a link for you about hand protection and the speed bag.

http://www.speedbagcentral.com/ssp/speed_bag_parts#D

Here are some links to some online video demonstrations of speed bag punching that you may find interesting.

http://www.putfile.com/speedbag

http://www.speedbagcentral.com/ssp/multimedia?c=3&p=1&clientId=55

http://www.speedbagcentral.com/ssp/demos

I hope this helps you get started on the speed bag!  Good luck with your training!

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible
http://www.speedbagcentral.com