Boxing bags??? People answer more in MA section so I'm posting here as well.?

Question

OK so there is the heavy bag, speed bag, double-end bag, uppercut bag, 'specialty' heavy bag (looks like a teardrop), reflex bag, slip ball, wall target, and freestanding bags

So I'm wondering what is each of these used for and what kind of drills or exercises is used with each.

Also, what is the difference between the double-end bag and the mexican style double-end bag with the figure 8 shape?

Answer 1

All of these are just variants on a basic theme - something to hit which won't complain (or sue) if you hit too hard!!!!

A heavy bag has little give in it so it is harder on your hands. You need to be a hard hitter to use one to full effect. It also doesn't move much when you hit it, whereas a lighter bag will swing more.

Some bags are designed to move when you hit then so you have a moving target to hit with your next punch (reflex bag, slip ball).

Some people have added little tweaks to the basic design to try to get you to buy the "latest" specialist bag ... but at the end of the day there is very little advantage over normal bags.

Probably the best combination is a medium weight standard bag and a pair of focus mitts. You can practice just about all your hard hits on a standard bag, and the focus mitts (and a good partner to hold them) will give you different angles, moving targets and accuracy training.

Just because a bag has a fancy name or an extra lump/bump or two doesn't necessarily make it any better.

If you are going to spend some money go for quality construction (leather not cheap plastic) and avoid the weird and wonderful shapes and their claims to be the best.

A fancy bag won't make you a better fighter, only hard work and determination can do that.