To know how to punch harder, especially if you are in the field of boxing and other fight sports, is a must. You don’t want your hand to get crushed while you throw a punch. A wrong technique can result in more damage being caused to you than your opponent. 

This guide will help you understand the technique of how you can punch harder.

Understanding the theories behind punching hard

There are five key elements that you should keep in mind while you are working on the craft of mastering a hard punch.

1. Understand your range

It is a common misconception that stretching your hand to a maximum length will help you knock your opponent hard. When actually, your punch will hit with a harder impact if your range is shorter than the full range. The key is to not reach but reduce the range. 

2. Power is not in speed

By applying the simple logic of physics, power can be expanded as a product of acceleration and mass. This means along with speed, you need to put force in your punch to actually put some impact. A fast punch will have minimum effect unless some bodyweight is delivered to it. 

3. Use of legs

It might appear a bit quizzical as to why legs are important for a perfect punch. The leg has the biggest and strongest muscles. The force generated by these muscles can generate more power. If you restrict your punch only to your arms, it will lack power. 

4. Movement of the body is necessary

By moving your entire body for throwing a punch, you gather more power. Keep moving your body at the same time instead of just your arm and legs. 

5. Use angles while punching

Don’t stick to your best side while punching. If you keep changing angles, you increase your opportunities to punch, and you can cause more damage. 

Channelizing your energy flow 

As mentioned earlier, punching is not about just moving your hands. You are required to put your entire body into action. It is, therefore, necessary to know where you should focus your energy and how strong you should be in that flow. 

Arms

Your arms should be in a relaxed state before hitting a punch. When you spring forward to throw a punch, don’t extend your hand completely. Extend it enough to hit your opponent. An overextension of your punch will be met with a counter.

Another important thing to remember is, don’t telegraph, Telegraphing is the act of pulling your wrist backward before punching. An experienced fighter will understand your intention and see the punch coming. As a result, your blow will get blocked. 

Hands 

Your hands should also be in a relaxed state before you punch. Don’t clench them really tight, keep your fist loose. The fist will transform into a rock-hard punch the moment you spring your arms for it.

Feet 

Your feet are also an essential power source for a hard punch. Before you get in action, your feet should be on the ground, open a little wider than your shoulder. As you get in position to punch, the heel of the back foot will, and you will pivot as you throw a punch.

The movement continues till you keep punching. The movement of hand and feet are synchronized when it comes to punching. Unlike walking, where your left-hand goes up when the right foot is forward, in punching, right feet and right-hand work together. 

Legs

Your legs will support your entire body weight, especially the knee. While punching, the knees should be slightly bent. This will transfer the whole-body weight to the knees, and your upper body will be light to move freely. 

How to improve your punching

Once you have mastered the five elements of how to punch hard and understood the flow of energy, you are ready for the action. It is necessary to practice a few exercises and drills to keep your punching strong and powerful.

Swimming 

Swimming allows you to use your entire body while exercising. It is one of the best ways to master the energy flow across the entire body. You can work on whole-body endurance with swimming. It is the perfect way to strengthen your power. 

Slow punching 

By now, you must have understood that delivering a hard punch has nothing to do with speed. A slower punch delivered with power does more damage than a fast punch. 

If you punch fast, your arms will finish the action by the time your entire body realizes what has happened. As a result, you will never be able to manage the flow of energy throughout your body, and your punches will not get strong. 

By slow punching, you can focus on the entire body and master the power dynamics of your punch. 

Practice isometric training

Isometric training is practicing your punch with a wall. All you have to do is lean at a wall and push your fist like it is stuck as you throw a punch. Apply a force for about 10 seconds, and repeat with the other hand. 

Isometric training is an excellent way of learning the art of storing energy. Once you have mastered this, you will be like a rubber band, ready to hit with a powerful force whenever released.

To sum it up

Mastering a strong and powerful punch is like an art of meditation. The more focused you are in the right spots, the better results you will be able to generate. 

Keep your focus on throwing a powerful punch and not a fast punch. Become an expert in controlling the energy flow across your body and how to store it during a fight. 

If you can master these few things, your opponent will never understand what hit them so hard!

The post How To Punch Harder: Top 5 Tips To Explosive Punches appeared first on CruBoxing.

Not only that, punching bags are the most compatible fitness accessory to possess, as well. Punching bags can be hanged anywhere easily with the help of suitable tools and proper following of steps.

The punching bag satisfies various purposes and needs to give physical results. Those physical results include endurance, reduction of fat, and improved strength. Improvement in muscle fitness and explosiveness can also be incorporated with the help of these.

Things to Take into Consideration

Heavy punching bags can be installed in a different way in your homes as well as gyms. However, before doing that, certain things need to be taken into consideration. One is about the weight of the bag when it is filled. The other thing is about the kind of ceiling you have in the area that you want to hang your punching bag in.

Preventing Mishaps

It is important to know how much your punching bag weighs. Knowing that would enable you to know the weight of the support it needs. Support refers to the mounts that you decide to use. An average punching bag weighs from 70 pounds and goes to 100 pounds. There are heavier bags than that weighing more. Those heavy-duty bags can weigh up to 200 pounds as well.

When you punch the bag, multiple forces come into play. There is the force with which the bag is punched. There is the force with which the bag comes back to its position. All the swinging and moving also adds the centrifugal force with the others. All the forces together can weigh more than what the bag weighs. This is why the bag needs proper support.

It is best to say that the support should be of twice the bag weight. For a bag weighing 100 pounds, it is best to have the support of the bag weighing 200 pounds.

How to Hang a Punching Bag

Punching bags are best suited in a gym or a home. They can be hung anywhere, from a joist in the ceiling to a punching bag hanger as well. There are wall mounts available and preferred as well for accommodating the bag in various places.

Using the Ceiling Joint

The best place to hang the punching bag is through a ceiling joist. The weight of the ceiling joist supports the ceiling. Hence it will support the bag as well properly. Regularly, the ceiling joint is a 2 x 6 board that is placed every 16 inches. The size and the space of the board may be more depending on different areas and ceilings.

After finding the ceiling joist for your punching bag, it is necessary to find the center of it. Hanging the bag in the center of the joist is the best option. For this, certain tools such as the power drill, eyebolt, wrench, and S-hooks will be required.

Drilling a hole in the joist will be the first step in the process. This will be followed by twisting in an eyebolt using the wrench. The bag will then be connected to the chains. The chains will be hooked up to the S-hook. The S-hook, along with the attached bag, will then get hung up to the eyebolt. Ensure the success of the process by testing the bag with a few punches.

Mounting the Bag to the Ceiling

The process of mounting the punching bag on the ceiling is the same as that of using the ceiling joint. Here, the mount needs to be placed on the ceiling to mark the spots for drilling. After drilling the points marked, the mount will have to be screwed up to the ceiling. Then the chains and the S-hook will be attached to the bag. The S-hook, along with the bag, will then be hanged to the mount attached to the ceiling. Again, remember to test the bag with a few punches to be sure about the mount.

Mounting the Bag to the Wall

Some people prefer to have their punching bags hanged on the wall instead of the ceiling. For this case as well, an amount will be needed. The mount for hanging the punching bag by the wall can be bought from any hardware store. The tools needed to install the mount to the wall include the same as that of the other two mounting methods. The process of mounting the bag to the wall is the same as that of mounting it to the ceiling.

The only thing that needs to be taken into consideration is that of the type of wall. Be sure to never install a wall mount in drywall for a heavy bag. Mounting bags on the walls is best suitable for masonry walls. Remember to test the bag with a few punches to see if it is placed properly or not.

Using a Heavy Bag Stand

In case you do not want to drill holes in walls or the ceiling, a freestyle heavy bag stand is the solution. These stands are considered to be the last resort to install a punching bag as they are not very stable. These stands might not be able to withstand the force and the weight of the bag. They might need weights or support to hold them down.

 If not, they may move, wobble or even tip over. In the case of these stands, the punching bags just need to be attached to the chains and the S-hook. The S-hook, along with the bag, is then hung up on the stand.

Summing Up

Punching bags are considered to be one of the best fitness equipment. Hanging the punching bags are easy to do if you follow the proper steps with the proper tools. The steps to hang the bag are almost the same regardless of the place you decide to hang the bag. 

The best place to hang the bag is to the ceiling, as the support is provided the most by the ceiling. The least suitable way to use a punching bag is by using a heavy freestyle bag stand.

The post How To Hang A Punching Bag: Easy Installation Tips appeared first on CruBoxing.

This is subjective, and others would argue Jiu Jitsu or Karate to be the best. But Kickboxing and Muay Thai are an integral component of MMA nevertheless. But these are more same than different. 

Concept of Muay Thai

Muay Thai, as known as Thai boxing, is an aggressive form of fighting. The fighters are tasked with delivering powerful blows with punches, knees, feet, and other parts. The blows are so powerful that the fighters intentionally try to damage the calves and thigh muscles of their opponent. 

Elbow shots are aimed at cutting through an opponent’s face, and clinches are used to control a fight. So Muay Thai is an aggressive form of fight that is offensive in nature, but there are crucial defensive tactics too.

Concept of Kickboxing

Kickboxing is a relatively gentler fighting sport. The opponent doesn’t come into the right to tear your muscles, nor to make you unconscious (at least intentionally). The rules regarding what can and cannot be used are stricter. 

Furthermore, there are different types of kickboxing like Japanese kickboxing, Chinese kickboxing, Dutch kickboxing, among others. Japanese or K-1 kickboxing is the most popular form nowadays that is greatly influenced by Muay Thai. So you’re going to find more similarities in there.

Difference between Muay Thai and Kickboxing

But there are a lot of similarities kickboxing shares with Muay Thai, which make both look like sister sports. But when looked closely, you’ll see the glaring difference. If you’re serious about MMA or either kickboxing or Muay Thai, then you must know about these distinctions.

Kicks to Punches Ratio

The first difference you’re going to notice is in the kicks to punches ratio. In Muay Thai, kicks and kneeing are the primary weapons, with punches being used to set up the kicks. But in a kickboxing fight, you’ll notice the fighters delivering much more punches than kicks. The punches are often longer in duration and feature a combination of punches.

This difference is because of how the scoring system works in both sports. In Muay Thai, you’re not going to win unless you kick or knock down your opponent. Going by the traditional Muay Thai rules, middle kicks have the highest reputation, followed by knees, elbows, and punches in that order. So fighters are encouraged to deliver more kicks than punches to win a game.

In kickboxing, you have a comparatively even scoring system. So kickboxers do not prioritize kicks over punches or knees to win the game. Since people find it easy and faster to deliver the punches, by doing so, they accumulate more points and win the fight.

Moves, Attacks, and Stance

There are differences in how the players move, attack, and stand inside the ring. Clinching is an integral part of MMA. And many have this misconception that it is now allowed in Muay Thai, but that’s not true. Clinching is allowed, but only for a short period of time. Therefore, it’s not seen as often as in kickboxing.

Sweeps and Dumps are often glamorized in MMA. While that’s allowed in Muay Thai, it’s not in kickboxing. Similarly, you’re not allowed to catch kick either.

With moves and attacks, there are also certain differences in the way the fighters take their stance.

In Muay Thai, you’ll notice more number of fighters to have their elbow placed outwards. While in kickboxing, then the elbow is around the ribs area. This also can be attributed to the higher number of punches received in a kickboxing fight.

To protect themselves from the punches, kickboxers glue their arms around the rib area. Also, since elbows are not allowed in kickboxing, they never have to worry about elbowing their opponent. 

In Muay Thai, however, fighters try to strike more number of punches. Hence by keeping it outwards, they are better able to deliver them.

Although stance varies from fighter to fighter, you’ll more often than not notice these differences.

Defense

Like already mentioned, Muay Thai is an offensive favored sport. This means fighters are less concerned about defense not until they’ve been nominated.

Professional Muay Thai is inherently more dangerous, and fighters are aggressive. Therefore, fighters in Muay Thai take active measures for kicks. But in kickboxing, players usually do not shin-check the kicks because they’re infrequent.

So when comparing fights, you’ll notice kickboxers do not block the kick with shins, but Muay Thai fighters do so at will.

Speed

Another major difference between kickboxing and Muay Thai is the speed at which the match progresses.

In Muay Thai, you have five rounds of a fight. This is two rounds extra when compared to kickboxing, which lasts for three rounds.

In the first two rounds, Muay Thai fighters tend to take the game slow and play it safe. This is to avoid losing the first two sets early and coming under pressure. The last three rounds are quite intense, and you’ll notice aggressiveness from both fighters.

In kickboxing, all the rounds are played at an equal pace.

Each round lasts for about three minutes. So Muay Thai will take longer to complete.

Cultural Difference

Last but not least, there are cultural differences between the two sports. Muay Thai has its origins in Thailand and is the national sport of the country. You’ll notice more number of rituals in a traditional Muay Thai match. You may also hear cultural music in the background. These are absent in kickboxing, and the fighters directly get into the action. In terms of coverage, both sports are covered heavily in the media.

To Sum up

Both sports offer entertainment and largely depends on how you view it and with what expectations. Learning the differences will help you in analyzing MMA better. If you’re looking to get started professionally, these will help you in picking your niche.

The post Kickboxing vs Muay Thai: Are they Similar or Different? appeared first on CruBoxing.

To be successful in boxing, you are not just supposed to be big and bulky. Boxing is about carefully balancing power, speed, endurance, and strength. The best way to achieve this balance is with the help of weight training. 

Here are a few exercises that you can master to make your boxing better and more impactful. 

Clean pull 

The clean pull is one of the best exercises to develop explosive strength. Since a lot of muscles get activated with the exercise, it teaches you “explosive movements” while training. This training is beneficial for any sport that requires jumping, running, striking, or throwing. 

With a clean pull, you are able to channelize the flow of energy through your body in a perfect fashion. For instance, in boxing, you require the energy to flow from the lower body to the upper body and then finally to your arm. 

Benefits 

The primary benefit of this weight training is that it teaches you “explosive movements” that can help you throw powerful punches on your opponent. The activation of every muscle in the process allows you to gain better and more effective control of your body. 

With a clean pull, you can develop an effective mass due to appropriate muscle extensions. It also helps develop the ability to absorb force so that the effect of damage caused is less. 

Apart from that, the technique is a good way of improving posture, mobility and help reduce the risk of any injury during the fight or training. 

Practice time 

In the beginning, you can start with three to five sets, each with three to five reps. You can increase the number of reps gradually as you start gaining better strength. 

Trap bar deadlift 

In boxing, your entire body is in movement. If you have understood energy flow dynamics, then you must be aware that the lower body is the beginning point of energy generation. The power flows from the lower body to the upper body. That is why you need to strengthen the muscle in the lower body as well. 

In simple words, the higher you are able to jump, the stronger punch you will be able to deliver. Therefore, this type of strength training can improve the power of your punch significantly.

Benefits

Trap bar deadlifts require a large amount of concentric force that can help in increasing the rate by which force develops in your lower body. This is the best way to help the body muscles to physiologically adapt to explosiveness, strength, and speed. 

It helps in improving the strength of your glutes, hamstrings along with the lower back and the core muscles. Trap bar deadlifts are pretty versatile as they are preparing the body to handle multiple types of injuries that it may encounter in a fight.

Practice time 

If you are starting with trap bar deadlift, three to five sets of three to five repetitions will help you get in the zone of this exercise. You can increase the number of repetitions once you have mastered the energy flow. 

MB Core Training

Core training is one of the most important parts of a boxer’s training session. A stronger core helps in throwing a harder punch at the opponent. Since your core is the link between the lower and upper body, you need it to be strong for a proper transfer of energy. 

The better is your stretch-shortening cycle of the core, the better you will be able to deliver a powerful punch. Your core should be able to absorb and reproduce force at a fast pace in order to create impactful actions. 

Benefits

The key benefit of MB core training is increasing the strength of your core. The improvement in the stretch-shortening cycle of the core muscles can do wonders for your boxing game. 

With a strong core, your hooks and combination punching action become better and more effective. 

Apart from that, this particular strength training also reduces the chances of suffering an injury. This is because a strong core will be stable even at high speed and force actions. Your lower back will be protected from any kind of overload or overuse injuries. 

Practice time 

To see a visible improvement with MB core training, it is advisable to practice around three to four sets of six to eight reps in every session. When you start feeling the change in strength, you can gradually increase the number of reps or sets as per your convenience.

Other weight lifting training

Apart from above mentioned three, you can include the following in your training session for the improvement of your skills. 

Land mine punches 

• Three to four sets of three to five reps. 
• Helps in mastering force transfer from arms to hands. 

 DB Chest press 

• Three to five sets of three to six reps.
• It helps in improving the shoulder strength for better force transfer. 

Squats 

• Three to four sets with five to six reps. 
• It helps in strengthening the glutes and hamstrings and makes the lower body stronger and more powerful. 

Endnote

To think that boxing is just a game of your arms and hands, then you are highly mistaken. You need to build an overall strong body to be able to display a great performance in the arena. 

Focus on increasing the strength of every part of your body. Your lower body needs to be strong to deliver the extra power that you need for a hard punch. Your core needs to be strong to deliver the strength generated in the lower body. Your upper body needs to be strong to finally throw that power to the opponent in the form of a strong punch. 

Coordination and equalized energy dynamics throughout the body will help you be a better boxer and up your game to the next level. 

Practice hard to ensure a better performance.

The post Weight Lifting For Boxers: Get Ready for the Big Fight appeared first on CruBoxing.

If you’re on a hunt for some virtually perfect boxing exercises, you are at the right place. As you read ahead, you will develop an insight into some of the best boxing exercises. These will help you evolve, challenge, and maintain your endurance, agility, and strength. 

The Best Boxing Exercises: Prepare For An Effective Training Session

On average, boxing is a 20% aerobic and 80% anaerobic activity. It will help if your boxing training involves interval training in addition to weight training and cardio. Your goal is to emerge as a well-balanced and coordinated fighter. 

With this in mind, here are the best boxing exercises:

Jumping Rope 

Jumping rope is a famous ritual in cardio. It offers an intense yet versatile and enjoyable workout, simultaneously reducing body fat. Jumping rope can sharpen your footwork, coordination, endurance, and dexterity. 

There are several variations and styles that you can adopt when jumping rope. Below are some of the most popular types that are intrinsic to boxing. 

On-The-Spot Running 

Running in place is the fundamental style of jumping rope. Make sure you lift your knees high with each jump. 

Double Turns 

Double turns are also called ‘double unders.’ It is more challenging than stationary jumping- you have to turn your rope twice with every jump. 

Criss-Cross Jumping 

Criss-cross is one of the more advanced styles of jumping rope. To do this, you have to cross your elbows while descending the swing- and then jump through the loop that forms. The following descending swing will see you uncross your arms, and so on. 

Training With Weights

When you talk about the best boxing exercises, weight training should be a concrete mention. It builds up strength and muscle. The ideal weight training regime should include a right blend of compound movements such as pull-ups and shoulder presses. 

Here are some suitable weight training exercises for boxers:

• Crunches: Crunches exercise your upper abs 
• Barbell Deadlifts: Barbell deadlifts work your entire body, including lower back, abs, traps, quads, and more
• Barbell Bench Press: If you want to ensure plenty of exercise for your triceps, pecs, and front deltoids, barbell bench presses are ideal
• Barbell Squats: You can work your quads, glutes, hamstrings, lower back, and abs via barbell squats
• Reverse Barbell Curls: As a boxer, the strength of your wrists is vital- and this exercise ensures that
• Dumbbell Shoulder Presses: Dumbell shoulder presses challenge your side and front deltoids
• Pull-Ups: With aid from your brachioradialis and biceps, this exercise works your lats 
• Hanging Leg-Raises: Hanging leg-raises work your abs 

How many sets should you do?

When it comes to weight training for a boxer, the intensity is an essential factor to consider. Typically, you will be good to go with three sets, with five to eight reps of each compound exercise. You can do two sets for the other activities. 

Shadow Boxing 

Training with the heavy bag is naturally one of the best boxing exercises. However, shadow boxing should ideally precede it as a warm-up. 

The name of shadow boxing speaks for itself- you must use your own shadow or reflection as your opponent. Punch in the air and carry out a few rotation exercises for your joints. 

Heavy Bag Training 

When you have a heavy bag, you do not need a partner to test and enhance your skills. A heavy bag prepares you for sparring. There are multiple advantages of using the heavy bag:

• Increases overall aerobic endurance 
• Boosts power of punching 
• Enhances coordination and agility 
• Helps in perfecting stance, posture, and technique of boxing
• Assists in burning away excess fat
• Improves footwork 

When you are working out with a heavy bag, there are specific punches you should focus on. These include jabs, cross punches, hooks, and uppercuts. You should exercise and practice your bolo punches too. 

In addition to punches, another critical element of exercising with a heavy bag is defence. It will benefit you to practice slips, parries, and weaving. These are the best boxing exercises for defence. 

Training With A Speed Bag

As you already know, coordination and your speed of punching are at the core of boxing. You can exercise these with the help of a speed bag. You should be able to maintain a steady and stable rhythm for a couple of minutes- ideally in sets of five minutes.

Sparring 

An integral part of the best boxing exercises is sparring with an opponent or partner. It is an excellent- and also the only- way of realizing your progress. Make sure you try to use all your techniques and punches and defences during a sparring match. 

The best way to spar is to divide your sessions into rounds that last about three to five minutes. 

Running and Athletics 

Running and athletics boost your anaerobic and aerobic endurance proficiencies. HIIT is capable of burning far more calories than any other embodiment of cardio. Interval training involves some of the best boxing exercises. 

Stretching 

You cannot overlook the importance of flexibility when it comes to boxing. It is best to include exercises that contribute to flexibility in your workout regimen. Make sure you stretch in each of your workouts since it will minimize the risk of injuries. 

Here are some stretching exercises:

• Toe touches
• Arm circles
• Wrist rotations 
• Seated butterfly stretches 
• Neck rotations 
• Elbow circles 
• Ankle and leg circles or rotations 

To Sum Up 

Boxing is a sport that demands proficiency in several skills. On this note, you have to push yourself to achieve greater heights, especially while training. Involve a blend of exercises that test your speed, endurance, and strength- with adequate rest. 

In addition to engaging in the best boxing exercises, you must sharpen your mind as well! 

The post The Best Boxing Exercises That Will Bring Out Your Best Form appeared first on CruBoxing.

When your training exercise is paired with the best training equipment, you will be quicker to reach new heights. 

The best boxing gloves will offer safe training by allowing you to use boxing techniques. If you are a beginner, you need to know which types of boxing gloves are specifically designed for you. 

Sparring gloves are ideal when you are training with a partner. However, these gloves come with thin padding, which makes them inappropriate for heavy bags. You may end up hurting your hands while using sparring gloves for heavy bag fighting.

Heavy bag training calls for dense foam or gel-infused gloves that will protect your fists. These boxing gloves will provide a cushion to your hands against the impact. However, these types of boxing gloves lack enough resilience and are not ideal for partner training. 

Top 3 Best Boxing Gloves For Training on Heavy Bags

Heavy bag training puts substantial pressure on your fists, forearms, and wrists. Invest in the ideal boxing gloves to save yourself from injuries. 

Here are the top 3 boxing gloves that are specifically suited to heavy bag training –

Title Boxing Gel World Bag Gloves

Established in 1998, Title Boxing is a leading name in the boxing industry. Their equipment design, business integrity, and top-notch quality make them an authority in boxing gloves. 

There is no substitute for Title Boxing when it comes to superior boxing equipment. Title Boxing allows you to be at the top of your boxing game with their exclusive range of punching bags, boxing gloves, and MMA gear. 

Title Boxing introduces another masterpiece in the range of boxing gloves for heavy bags. This boxing glove comes with a gel enforced lining that offers the ultimate protection for your knuckles. 

The multi-layered cushiony foam padding offers the best performance, power, and style. 

These gloves provide the best fit and comfort to maintain your training efficiency and safety. It also offers unbeatable impact resistance and is ideal for taking out your aggression. 

The all-leather outer design comes with a customized hand compartment to keep your hands cool and dry. 

To deliver a snug fit, the boxing glove also comes with an adjustable wrist strap and hook-and-loop fixtures. These gloves are ideal for all sessions and safeguard your hands from injuries. 

People weighing near 180 lbs. should opt for these gel-infused gloves by Title Boxing. These are available in multiple fits to securely fit the hands of different individuals. 

Pros

• Thick gel-infused padding to keep your fists safe from injuries
• Durable all-leather outer fabric
• Adjustable straps and D-ring for a secure fit
• Hugs your wrists snugly

Cons

• No inner vents for quick drying of the gloves

Everlast Pro Style Training Boxing Gloves

Everlast is an internationally renowned manufacturer of boxing gloves. Founded in 1910, Everlast was originally introduced as a swimwear brand. Jacob Golomb started this brand when he was only 17 years old. 

In 1917, Jack Dempsey, a young fighter, introduced boxing to Everlast. Everlast is still the undefeated boxing gloves champion with 90-years of industry experience. 

If you are looking for a heavy bag pounding gloves that are affordable, then for this one. The high-quality neoprene material and durable foam material will provide the optimum value for money. The thick padding will shield your fists from the impact.

These gloves are made of lightweight construction to boost your boxing speed. Everlast boxing gloves boast of enhanced flexibility and value-added comfort. 

This glove will protect your hands against hyperflexion during high-impact punches. 

The pre-curved foam offers extraordinary protection for heavy bag training. It comes with a moisture-repellent inner lining to keep your hands dry and comfortable. 

Pros

• The padded palm grip allows you to incorporate the right boxing technique without injuring your hands
• Elastic wrist wrap offers a custom fit for every boxer
• The inner lining eliminates moisture build-up
• Affordable

Cons

• No variations in size
• The wrist support may seem inconvenient for power punching

Venum Impact Heavy-Bag Boxing Gloves

Founded in 2008, Venum has been leading the MMA industry for years now. It is one of the best brands for boxing gloves. They have an exclusive range of boxing gloves ranging from mid-range to scaling costs. 

They have sponsored many MMA fighters over the past years, which made them a global figure. If you are interested in serious fight training, then opt for the Venum impact boxing gloves. 

These boxing gloves come with a triple-density durable foam to offer enhanced absorption. The fully attached thumb feature ensures better protection to your hands and wrists. 

These gloves are available in various edition colors to fit different personalities. 

Venum manufactures these boxing gloves in Thailand under rigid quality control. These gloves are super comfortable and ideal for heavy bag boxing. 

Pros

• The ergonomic design reduces the possibility of a thumb injury
• High-quality Velcro wrist closure allows enhanced protection
• Triple density foam provides unparalleled shock absorption
• The semi-leather structure offers durability and flexibility
• Reinforced seams and longer cuffs deliver the greatest comfort

Cons

• The inner lining may seem flimsy
• It may run a bit tight for people with larger hands

Buying Guide For The Best Boxing Gloves

Size

Size is the main factor to consider while buying the best boxing gloves. The size and shape of your hands must blend perfectly with the size of the gloves. However, you must also consider your body weight. 

Comfort and Material

Boxing gloves must offer comfort and flexibility. Stay away from stiff gloves as they will restrict your movement and lead to injuries. 

You must also opt for heavy padding gloves with neoprene or leather outer shells. It will withstand rough usage and promote longevity.

Secure Enclosure and Wrist Support

Some gloves come with adjustable straps and splints to keep your wrists protected. Opt for gloves that offer a secure fit to reduce the risk of injuries. 

Final Thoughts

Best boxing gloves are one that blends protection with comfort. It must also offer a snug fit while meeting your budget. 

Consider our top 3 listed gloves to find the best gloves for heavy bag training. Every glove in our list will fit the needs of all hard hitters and beginners.

The post Best Boxing Gloves For Training: Detailed Comparison appeared first on CruBoxing.

Training with a heavy bag isn’t just punching at the bag or kicking it. Proper training requires a lot more discipline, scheduling, and technique. If you are wondering how to train with a punching bag, then read on.

What should you know?

Heavy bags – which are a kind of punching bag most commonly used for MMA and boxing training are a good choice to work with.

Training with such a punching bag can be used both to improve your skills as a boxer or a fighter. But if you’re neither, then it is a great way to have a full-body workout as well.

Training with a heavy bag requires a lot of concentration and movement. It also requires you to maintain stamina and is one of the best ways to improve your endurance and efficiency. 

Before you begin training with a heavy bag, it is best to choose the place of your workout. You can either train at the gym, throw a combination of cool punches and jab, and get your workout done with. Or if you’re a dedicated boxer or fighter and want to train your body better, then you could set up one at home too. 

Make sure that you choose a place with plenty of space to move around. Hanging the punching bag at a place that limits your movement can impede your training instead of building it up.

Steps for Training with a Punching Bag

Warming Up

First things first, you should warm yourself up before any kind of workout or training. Warming up is a good way to begin any training as it gets your blood flowing and raises your body temperatures. It also loosens your joints and helps you become flexible. Most importantly, it gets you in the zone and a mindset of training.

Wear Gloves or Boxing Wraps

Then, choose your boxing gloves or boxing wraps. It is essential you not train bare-knuckled. Not only can that result in injuring your knuckles or possibly even breaking them, but it can also leave them sore for days.

Punching bags aren’t lightweight, especially the ones used for training, so gloves and boxing wraps are a must. They give your wrists and knuckles enough padding to launch power punches and jabs without dreading the pain.

Time Your Training

When you’re training with a heavy bag, it is important to time your rounds and the rest periods. That keeps you motivated and disciplined. Time your training accordingly. If you’re training as a workout, it is best to have around 5-6 rounds of 3 minutes each with 1 minute rest periods. 

You can increase or decrease the number of rounds and the rest periods depending on your skills and endurance.

Proper Stances

Having a proper stance for throwing a punch or training is crucial. It gives your body and hands the support they need to land good punches, and they aid in efficient training. A wrong stance can tire you up earlier and can negate your training and your hard work.

Your feet should be comfortably set apart and should be facing the same direction as your hips and chest. 

Your core properly engages when you stand in a manner that is most efficient for your movements. So proper stances should be considered before you begin.

Hands Up

Always have your hands up and guard yourself. Your face and head are the most important parts of your body, and your opponent will not hesitate to go for them. Remember, hands down, you become the clown. For your safety, always have one hand up guarding even when you throw jabs or punches.

Footwork

Your footwork and constant movements half of your training. There will be no beneficial and efficient training if you are stationary and don’t move around much. 

A good boxing training or a good workout requires you to be constantly in motion. Moving on the balls of your feet and going around the punching bag is a good way to work with it. Your position for footwork is also important and can increase the power of your jabs.

Always Be in Motion

You should get comfortable with shuffling around the punching. Moving around also gives you an idea of your punching range when you throw empty punches at the bag. 

A real opponent will be standing still but be waiting for you to drop your defense to land their punch. That is why moving around keeps you vigilant and focused.

Punch, Not Push the Bag

You should punch the bag in a snapping manner and not use your weight to push at it. That just cancels your efforts entirely. Punch and don’t push the heavy bag, that way, it won’t be swinging around uncontrollably, and you will be able to land more punches. Using snap punches for this works well, and you can use various combinations of punches, kicks, and jabs to your liking.

After punching, move away from the bag with each punch so that when you follow up, you’re forced to move forward. This keeps you in motion and a rhythm and helps you train better. 

When throwing snap punching, don’t just focus on the top of the bag. Throw punches all around it. Use body punches and switch to head ones. Don’t keep throwing punches with only power and no technique. That will only time you and not improve your endurance, efficiency, or skills at all.

Choose Your Combination

Choose your combination of punches and movements that you prefer. You can add up combinations of punches, with jabs and hooks, body shots, and leg kicks. When beginning, using combinations of left and right punches also works well.

Jabs are very useful when you’re a beginner so use them to apply when you’re learning.

Fire Up Your Imagination

It can be drab if you don’t use your creative imagination while you train with a punching bag. It becomes more engaging and interesting when you vividly picture a worthy opponent in front of you instead of a dull punching bag. 

Fire up your imagination and envision yourself in a setting and a situation that gets you motivated. You can be having an international match or fighting as a vigilante; there is no limit to your imagination. So use it and make your training exciting and worthwhile. 

Final Thoughts

MMA heavy bag training is the best way to improve and practice your endurance skills and master your techniques. Even if you’re an amateur, a punching bag would be the best way to train. Training and practice are what take you ahead. 

Make sure you’re training properly and safely with punching bags within the watchful guidance of a trainer or coach until you’re ready to do it on your own.

The post How To Train With A Punching Bag: Expert Advice appeared first on CruBoxing.

Well, while the road to professional MMA is not easy, it is definitely not impossible. With practice, dedication, and a correct mindset, you can see yourself battling against the ripped ones you see on the TV. In this article, we explain how to get into MMA as a beginner.

How is MMA different from Other Fighting Sports?

To get into MMA, you must first understand how it differs from other types of fighting sports. This includes wrestling, boxing, kickboxing, karate, and others. If you already know the difference feel free to skip this section.

The main difference you’re going to find between MMA and other sports has to do with rules. Rules regarding what is allowed and what isn’t. For example, in boxing, you’re only allowed to hit above the belt area. But in MMA, almost everything is counted fair. That’s why you’ll see players punching, kicking, wrestling, arm locking, knee driving — almost anything you can think of. Therefore, to become an MMA fighter, you’d have to develop a wide range of skill sets.

The other noticeable difference is the location. While other boxing events take place in a right, MMA fights are organized in a cage.

Steps to Get into MMA

If you’re raring to get into MMA as a professional, then there are few steps you need to go through. Getting these steps right is the key to success. Hence, as a beginner, you’d have to go back and forth between these steps.

Develop a Mindset

Before you decide to become an MMA fighter, you must first understand what you’re getting yourself into. MMA (organized by UFC) is a professional sport in which the best of the best compete. They’ve trained for years and years to get into the cage. So you need to develop a mindset that you’re up for the challenge and are willing to commit. Because without commitment, you aren’t going anywhere in MMA.

Do you have a lifestyle that allows you to hit the gym every day? Can you religiously follow a strict diet? Are you willing to make sacrifices for MMA, which might include parties, friends, girlfriends, vacations, etc.? Proceed to the next step only if the answer is a concrete “Yes” to the above.

Select your Niche

MMA incorporates a variety of martial arts styles into one. Therefore getting started with training can be overwhelming. To help your case, you need to select a niche for yourself.

MMA fighting can essentially be broken down into three components:

• Stand-up fight
• Clinch
• Ground

In the first component, fighters fight each other, standing on their feet. They strike each other with hands, legs, elbows, knees, shoulder, etc. In Clinch, the fighters are still in a standing position but are in bodily contact. They try to dominate their opponent and gain an advantage. Finally, you have the Ground component, where players fight on the ground.

Each one of the fighting components would call for a different skill set. For stand-up fights, you’re supposed to be strong at boxing, kickboxing, Karate, Taekwondo, etc. For mastery in Clinch, you must practice Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, or wrestling.

It’s not uncommon for professional MMA fighters to dedicate the majority of their training efforts to a single type. Boxing is usually the common skill set, followed by Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. So pick your niche at the earliest.

Join an MMA Gym

A gym allows you to develop your skill for MMA. So you must join a gym and start training. It’s important to get a mentor or coach who will guide you through the process.

Also, there are different types of gyms. Some specialize in MMA, which is where you should be heading. You can also join Karate classes if that’s the niche you have chosen. Get trained in Muay Thai or Jiu-Jitsu if that’s your preference.

Get the Gears

As you might have noticed, MMA fighters wear protective gear to avoid fatal injuries. When you’re just starting out, these gears become even more important.

The gears to purchase includes, but is not limited to:

• Gloves
• Mouthguard
• Hand wraps
• Rashguard
• Athletic cup
• Tapes
• Knee pad
• Shinguard
• Headgear

You’ll also shop for shorts, pain spray, bandage, compression, among other things.

Compete in Local Events

Once you’ve trained sufficiently and felt you could knock down a guy of your range, it’s time to match up. Although you’d be competing a lot in the gym itself, competing at a league is a different ball game.

Wikipedia lists there are hundreds of MMA promotions around the world other than UFC. There are several hundred others that aren’t listed. Your job is to participate in local MMA promotion leagues and test your skills.

Chances are you’ll not get the desired result, but you should let these be your motivation to train harder. 

Practice and Improve

You’ve laid out all the necessary groundwork. Now the only thing that keeps you from entering professional MMA is an improvement. You must practice and improve to a degree where you can match up with tougher guys. 

You shouldn’t be afraid of the spar and give everything you’ve got. Only when you push yourself will you improve yourself. With continuous efforts, you’ll one day enter the MMA cage organized by UFC.

To Sum up

Most fanatics who start training never reach the professional level. And that’s a fact. To avoid being one of them, you need to give 100% both in and outside of the cage.

The post How to Get into MMA? appeared first on CruBoxing.