Are Speed Bags Right For MMA Training?

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.

This conclusion is reached because the modern versions of the speed bag are a lot different than the ones in the early 20th century were. The older ones had platforms that were much larger and had longer chains to hold it on with. The modern day chains are about 3″ but the older ones were 18″ or more.

The purpose of training with the speed bag changed when the bag itself changed. The classic model was used more for integrating slips into training while the modern speed bag has two different training devices, the modern bag 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 thing that the bag does is to help you learn to keep your hands up which is important in preventing your nose from being broken among other things.

Because the bag comes at you so fast, you have to move fast as well. If your hands are too low, you simply wont hit the bag effectively. If you are not in proper position, you cannot work the speed bag so in learning to use the bag, you will subsequently learn to keep your hands up.

Even with the attributes mentioned, there is still criticism that the bag does not literally translate to sparring. But why then do most top professional boxers use them in their workouts?

A close cousin to the speed bag is the double end bag. Controversial as well, it has many of the same functions as the speed bag but it also “returns to sender”. It simulates a counter punch and therefore teaches you to move or punch back.

The double end bag also will circle in a 360 degree angle which offers a lot in a workout. If you are really serious about developing your punching power, you will want to get a double end bag. Once you have learned the skills of this bag, you can move on to train elbows and use even more tools.

If you decide that you want to purchase a bag, you will definitely want to get one that is produced by an established manufacturer. That should be easy though since there are lots of companies that make the bag and have for decades.

As far as bags manufacturers go, Everlast is probably the most popular brand as it is the one most seen in retail stores. It is a good buy and inexpensive as well.

One of the best brands out there is UFC. The products are solid and very well made. It is a popular choice and not a wonder why.

Revgear has both the speed bag and double end bag. The products are well made and the company prides itself on being high quality.

TigerClaw is a lesser known brand in MMA, but very popular in other circles. Thomas Oh started the company with the idea to continue changing products with the times. Their products are great for those on a budget and you will not be disappointed with their speed bag.

KWON is another good company to consider. They have bags available that are made with imitation rubber and come with a bungee.

As long as the company is a known name in boxing or martial arts, it should make a fine bag purchase.

If you have decided to train on the speed bag and/or the double end bag, you have made a wise decision. The workouts will teach you to be strong and quick which are great things any MMA athlete can use for a fantastic workout and attributes you can take to the ring as well

Finding out which equipment is good for MMA can be tough. There is so much out there. At http://www.ultimate-mma-equipment.com CJ shows you how to find the best MMA Equipment.