Heavy Bag

A cylindrical bag, typically 4-6 feet tall and 80-150 pounds, hung from a ceiling beam or freestanding stand. The heavy bag is the foundation of every gym. Filled with sand, cloth, or water (water bags are softer on the joints), it absorbs the boxer's power punches and provides resistance for combination work. A 100-lb bag is the standard for an amateur or club boxer; pros often work on 150-200 lb bags for power-punching practice.

Key features

• ▸80-150 lbs for most use cases (200 lb for heavyweights)
• ▸Leather (premium, $500+) or synthetic (durable, $150-300)
• ▸Standard 4 chains + swivel for ceiling mount
• ▸Freestanding bases with weighted base (sand or water) are an alternative
• ▸Water-filled "Aqua" bags reduce wrist impact

Buying guide

Home use: a freestanding bag ($200-400) is easiest. Gym/garage with ceiling beam: hung leather bag ($300-600). Avoid the cheapest synthetic bags — they split at the seams after 6 months. Pair with a stand or ceiling mount that is rated for the bag's weight + 100 lbs to allow for swing force.