Mixed Martial Arts…Does The Speed Bag Belong?
The use of speed bags in MMA is a controversy. Some believe that speed bags have no place in traditional boxing much less in MMA. Others are firm believers that the bags are very effective in MMA training.
The reason the speed bag gets a bad rap is because those opposed feel that the actual motions of the bag do not capture the actual punching motions that are used in MMA.
One reason for this assessment is that modern versions of the speed bag are much different that the original ones of the early 20th century. The older ones had a much larger platform and longer chain to hold it on. Today chains are usually around 3″ where the classic models were 18″ or longer.
Because the significant differences in modern and classic versions of the speed bag, the purpose they are used for in training has changed. The older models were more for integrating slips while the newer ones have two different training devices which are the modern bags made from 1950 on and the double end bag.
Today’s bag still has it’s value and that value is the ability to develop certain training attributes.
One thing the speed bag has to give in boxing, kickboxing and in the MMA gym as well is that it is very effective in developing hand-eye coordination. You have to be able to hit the bag right when it comes into range, immediately when you see it coming. If you are too early or too late, you totally throw off the rhythm of the bag.
When the hand-eye skills have been mastered, you can develop more skills with the help of the bag such as timing. Timing is of great importance when it comes to striking. The repetition of hitting the bag helps teach proper timing which will help your performance in the ring.
One of the things that training with the speed bag does that is not common knowledge is that is strengthens your ability to keep your hands up. Keeping your hands up can prevent your nose from being broken so it is of utmost importance.
The speed bag comes at you fast is why it is called a speed bag. You have to move fast in order to hit it effectively. If you are not in the correct position, you cannot work the bag therefore you learn to keep your hands up.
Event though the bag has many attributes in training, it is still argued that is has no place in MMA and boxing. Why then do so many professionals use it?
Another controversial piece of workout equipment is the double end bag, a close cousin to the speed bag. Although it functions much like the speed bag, the double end bag “returns to sender” in such a way that it simulates a counter punch. When it “returns”, one must either move out of the way or counter punch.
Another thing the double end bag will do is circle in a 360 degree fashion which offers much to a workout. If you remotely serious about developing punching power, the double end bag is a must. Once you have learned the solid skills of the double end bag, you can move on to train elbows and other tools as well.
If you are going to get either or both of these bags, do make sure you do so from an established manufacturer. With many companies that have been around for decades that make these products, that should not be difficult.
For bags, Everlast is probably the most popular, mostly because it is the one most seen in retail stores. It is a good buy and not very expensive either.
UFC is an excellent brand. It’s products are solid and very well made. UFC remains a popular choice for good reasons.
Revgear has both bags and their products are well made. The company takes a lot of pride in the high quality of their products.
TigerClaw may not be as well known in MMA but they are very popular in other circles. The company was begun by Thomas Oh and he insists on changing the products to match the times. TigerClaw is a great choice for those on a budge and they will not disappoint.
Another good company to consider is KWON. Their bags are made with imitation rubber and come with a bungee.
As long as you are purchasing from a company that is well known in boxing and MMA, the bag should be fine.
If you have decided to train on the speed bag or even the double end bag, you have made a wise choice. Your workouts will build your strength and you will learn to be quick which are vital to a great training session as well as important attributes in the ring.
Finding out which equipment is good for MMA can be tough. There is so much out there. At www.http://www.ultimate-mma-equipment.com CJ shows you how to find the best MMA Equipment.
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