Choosing a heavy bag

Heavy bag workouts are great, however its important to note that different people need different heavy bags. Picking the correct size heavy bag is very important when you begin a heavy bag workout. Selecting a heavy bag that is too heavy for could result in severe damage to the hand and wrist. Alternatively, choosing a bag that is too light for you could have an effect on your workout, and result in the bag swinging too much after every punch, minimising the effectiveness of your workout. Most heavy bags are between 25-150lbs; the size of the bag that is right for you will depend on your size and strength. 40lbs bags are recommended for the lighter weight boxers weighing anything below 150 pounds, preferably women who are looking for a light workout. A 70lbs bag is for a fighter between 150-170 pounds with a fair punch, as it will withstand a fair amount of punishment. 100lbs heavy bag is recommended for someone who is pretty serious about picking up some punch strength and is anything above 170 pounds (If your below this weight but believe your punch is more powerful than your average weight class then this bag will also be recommended for you). However, be careful because unless it is a water heavy bag they can tend to be pretty tough on the hands and could potentially damage your hands and wrist, so be sure to use boxing wraps and a decent pair of boxing gloves. Be sure to start lightly to break in the heavy bag.


Leather heavy bags are a great option for those who are serious about a good heavy bag workout, as leather bags are designed to take a serious amount of abuse, hence why all major boxing gyms use leather bags. What’s great about leather heavy bags is that they most replicate the feeling of landing a punch on an actual opponent, which is great if your using the bag for self defence or if you’re actually looking to go into boxing. Most punching bags have a thick layer of leather, as leather is a lot kinder to the hands and wrist when punching the bag. To maintain a leather heavy bag, try to wipe it down with leather cleaner at least once a week depending on how much you use it. This way it will last you much longer without you worrying about it wearing down from constant abuse.

There are many different brand heavy bags, although one that I feel slightly sticks out from the rest has to be the Everlast heavy bag, due to its long life and very reasonable pricing. If your serious about a heavy bag workout, remember to take all of these things into consideration when you purchase your bag, as they don’t often come cheap!