Punching bag training is an excellent way to improve fitness, strength, and coordination. To maximize your workout and prevent injuries, wearing the right gear is essential. From gloves to hand wraps and clothing, each piece plays a vital role in comfort and safety.
Here’s a detailed guide to the essential gear you need for punching bag training.
Essential Gear for Punching Bag Training
Category | Product | Description | See Details |
Gloves | Everlast Pro Style Training Gloves | Ideal for beginners, affordable and durable | 5 Colors Available |
Cleto Reyes Training Gloves | Premium option for serious trainers | 18 Designs, Colors and 4 Sizes Available | |
Venum Elite Boxing Gloves | Well-padded and durable | 28 Designs, colors and 5 Sizes Options | |
Fairtex Bag Gloves | Great for heavy bag training | 7 Different Colors, Designs and 4 Sizes Options | |
RDX MMA Gloves | Best for light bag work and MMA | Available in 5 colors & design with 3 sizes options | |
Hand Wraps & Protectors | Ringside Mexican Style Hand Wraps | Durable cotton wraps (180 inches) | 10 Different color pairs options |
Hayabusa Perfect Stretch Hand Wraps | Premium wrist and knuckle support | 180 Inch with 12 different color options | |
Sanabul Gel Quick Wraps | Convenient slip-on wraps | 7 color and different sizes option | |
Everlast EverGel Hand Wraps | Quick application for beginners | Available in different sizes, designs and colors | |
Clothing for Training | Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shirt | Moisture-wicking and breathable | See different color and sizes options |
Nike Dri-FIT Training T-shirt | Comfortable and sweat-resistant | See multiple colors and design options | |
Adidas Performance Shorts | Flexible for ease of movement | Check multiple sizes and colors | |
RDX Compression Leggings | Provides support and flexibility | High rise style with different sizes and color options | |
Champion Sports Bra | Essential support for women | Pull on closure type in different sizes and colors | |
Footwear | Adidas Speedex 18 Boxing Shoes | Lightweight with ankle support | Select size and color |
Everlast PIVT Low Top Boxing Shoes | Versatile and suitable for various workouts | See detail about lace-up closure type | |
Nike Metcon Cross-Trainers | Good for stability in home gyms | See detail about available sizes and design | |
Reebok Nano Training Shoes | Great for general fitness and bag workouts | See available options | |
Accessories | Under Armour Headbands | Keeps sweat out of your eyes | Select from multiple designs |
Gatorade Cooling Towel | Handy for wiping sweat during workouts | Check Premium Sideline Towel Bi-color | |
Adidas Hand Towel | Compact and absorbent for gym use | Check Unisex-Adult 3Bar Small Towel |
Gloves: Types and Choosing the Right Pair
Gloves are the most critical piece of equipment for punching bag training. They protect your hands, knuckles, and wrists from impact and help maintain proper striking form.
Types of Gloves:
- Bag Gloves: Specifically designed for heavy bag training, these gloves have extra padding to absorb impact.
- Boxing Gloves: Versatile gloves used for sparring, heavy bag training, and mitt work. They come in various weights (e.g., 12 oz., 14 oz., 16 oz.) to suit different training styles.
- MMA Gloves: Smaller and less padded, these gloves allow for grappling and are suitable for light bag work.
Choosing the Right Pair:
Weight:
- 12 oz. or 14 oz.: Ideal for speed and general bag work.
- 16 oz.: Preferred for heavy hitters and conditioning.
Material:
- Synthetic Leather: Affordable and durable for beginners.
- Genuine Leather: Long-lasting and preferred by advanced users.
Fit:
Ensure the gloves fit snugly but allow for hand wraps underneath.
Pro Tip: Gloves like the Everlast Pro Style Training Gloves or Cleto Reyes are popular choices depending on your level and budget.
Hand Wraps and Protectors
Hand wraps are essential for stabilizing the bones, muscles, and joints in your hands and wrists. They provide an extra layer of protection beneath gloves.
Types of Hand Wraps:
- Traditional Wraps: Long cotton wraps (120–180 inches) that you wrap around your hands and wrists. These offer maximum support and are ideal for heavy bag training.
- Quick Wraps: Pre-molded gel wraps or slip-on designs for quick use. Suitable for beginners or light training.
How to Use Hand Wraps:
- Start by anchoring the wrap around your thumb.
- Wrap around your wrist for support.
- Cover your knuckles, then return to the wrist.
- Crisscross between fingers for added stability.
- Finish by securing the wrap with Velcro.
Pro Tip: Invest in brands like Ringside or Hayabusa for durable and comfortable hand wraps.
Recommended Clothing and Footwear
Wearing the right clothing and footwear ensures freedom of movement and reduces the risk of injury.
Clothing:
- Top: Wear a breathable T-shirt, tank top, or moisture-wicking compression shirt to stay cool during intense workouts.
- Bottoms: Opt for flexible shorts, sweatpants, or athletic leggings that allow a full range of motion.
- Support: Women should wear a supportive sports bra for comfort.
Footwear:
- Boxing Shoes: Designed with ankle support and non-slip soles for quick lateral movements. Ideal for advanced training.
- Cross-Trainers: Great for beginners or those using freestanding bags in home gyms. They provide general stability and comfort.
- Barefoot or Socks: Some prefer to train barefoot or in socks, especially for kickboxing or martial arts styles, as it improves ground connection.
Accessories:
- Sweatbands or headbands to keep sweat out of your eyes.
- A towel nearby to wipe down during breaks.
Why the Right Gear Matters?
Using the correct gear minimizes the risk of:
- Hand Injuries: Proper gloves and wraps absorb impact and stabilize joints.
- Wrist Strains: Hand wraps provide crucial wrist support.
- Skin Abrasions: Gloves and wraps prevent chafing and blisters.
- Overheating or Restriction: Comfortable clothing and proper footwear keep you focused on your workout, not your discomfort.
Punching bag training can be intense, but with the right gear, it becomes safer, more enjoyable, and effective.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, investing in high-quality gloves, wraps, and appropriate clothing ensures you stay protected while reaching your fitness goals.