Punch bags (boxing) - anyone knowledgeable?

[JustBeingJobless]

13yo ds is asking for a decent punch bag. We got him a cheap inflatable one last year, thinking it wouldn’t get used, but he uses it regularly. However, it’s pretty crap and he’s taken to walloping walks and door frames (briefly, until I yell to him to stop!).

I’m looking to get him something better but need a bit of advice from someone who knows what they’re talking about really!

Which is better - freestanding or a ceiling mounted one? Will be going up on the loft room so either is doable.

Which will make least noise? I’m going stir crazy hearing thud thud thud from the little inflatable one, but I imagine a proper heavy one won’t move around as much so might actually be quieter.

Are there any that are easy to fill with sand? Been reading reviews on Amazon from people saying it takes hours with a funnel and would like to think it could be emptied again in the future if need be!

Many thanks! :)

Anybody?

I box.

Ceiling mounted is absolutely the way to go.

Best fillings to use are rags as sand tends to balloon and swell at the bottom. An ideal combo is a rag centre with a foam outer to protect his hands.

Whilst they are expensive, leather is definitely the way to go, or canvas - avoid vinyl, they will eventually crack and degrade.

Don't rule out second hand, plenty on eBay / Gumtree.

Bags suspended by chains will rattle and be noisy so if that is a factor, try to get one with straps rather than chains.

Hang the bag higher than you think it should be - the middle of the bag should be level with his chest.

One thing to be aware of, punching a proper bag is nothing like punching an inflatable - there is far more resistance and striking a proper bag can damage your hands if they are not well protected.

If he is serious and punches with any power, it is essential to ensure he wraps his hands properly and uses quality well padded gloves with strong writ support - the bag will feel like hitting a wall in comparison to an inflatable.

Thanks Groundfloor. He spends half his life punching walls anyway, so he’ll be ok He’s got decent gloves as I bought him those a few months ago. I keep trying to get him to do some classes or something, but he’s not the most sociable child!