Expert: Alan Kahn - 8/8/2007

Question
Alan,
    I'm looking to hang a speedbag in my unfinished basement for my son.  The basement is mostly concrete walls with the back side of the basement 2x4's.  If I connect it to the studs the whole upstairs floor shakes while he uses it. Is it possible to attach the speedbag to the concrete foundation and if so how would it best be accomplished.  If you have any advice for me I'd really appreciate it.

Thanks,
Patrick

Answer
HI Patrick,

I am really happy that you are hanging a speed bag unit in the basement for your son.  That is a great Father/Son activity. (OK, daughter and wife too, if possible..)

To answer your question, you certainly CAN attach a speed bag unit to cement, cinderblock walls or concrete walls. You simple need the correct mounting equipment (screws, bolts etc) for the material you are attaching to.

The local lowes, Homedepot, or lumbar/hardware store should have plenty of the correct attachment hardware. Since I don't really know what the specifics of YOUR wall are (concrete cinder blocks, solid poured cement, etc) I can't make an exact recommendation, but there are plenty of specialized bolts and screws to do the job. You might consider laying down wood runners first (1x4's or 2x4) over the concrete surface so the metal runners of the vertical speed bag wallmounts will not be on the concrete. I think having the concrete wall, wood runner, metal speed bag unit is the best way to buffer the vibration.  Also, if possible put the speed bag on an "outside" weightbearing wall, which offers a little more solid backing to deter the vibration.

try these links below

http://www.ringside.com/DETAIL.ASPX?ID=24631

Hollow wall anchors
http://www.fastenersuperstore.com/stores/superstore/kit5.cfm?category=Fastener%2...

Concrete screws
http://www.fastenersuperstore.com/stores/superstore/step3.cfm?category=Anchors&p...

lots to chose from
http://www.fastenersuperstore.com/html/productTree.cfm

Hope this helps!  good luck training with your son

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The speed bag bible