I just purchased a 60# punching bag and was wondering if anyone used one for cardio and/or building upper body strength. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance

Punkin...I'm copying my reply that I posted on the "diet & nutrition" forum for you. Sorry for the repeat, but this will also help to bounce your question back to the top of the list for now.

I used to train on the "heavy" bag (what you have), as well as the "speed" bag, until I had my first back surgery four years ago. In fact, both bags are still hanging...just not being used. My opinion is that the workout you get from either bag, is beneficial. But that of course depends on what benefit you are hoping to derive from using it/them. I never viewed either as being much of a cardio workout, although you can definately work up a good sweat. If you are looking at purely increasing your shoulder strength, stamina and punching power, the heavy bag will do the trick. Don't get too carried away with it in the beginning, or else you will lose interest very quickly. If you are not used to hitting the heavy bag (mine is a tough canvas 75 lb bag), it can be quite unforgiving to your fists, even wearing gloves. I'd recommend that you begin, just as you would with any physical activity. Start slow...and gradually increase the length of workout as well as intensity, over a pre-designated timeframe. Also, in the beginning, allow a day of rest in between each workout. But if you want to build your wind, which will improve your ability to hit the bag for longer sessions, you still need to run, bike, stairs etc...

Set up my bag today. Worked with it for about 10 minutes and I think I'm gonna like it. Will let you know how it goes.

Wanna take it slow so I don't do something stupid, like hurt myself................

Hi Punkin...How's the bag banging going? I'm sort of surprised that more people haven't gotten in on this topic. Maybe we don't have any boxers here.

Out of curiosity, what type gloves are you using? Are they quality and properly fitted? If not, you'll find that you'll easily skin your knuckles, which can make it very uncomfortable to keep going until they've healed. Starting with 10 minutes is a good beginning. I'll bet that even that 10 minutes seemed like an eternity for you. Are you using any sort of disciplined routine? Or are you just punching away at the bag? How are your wrists feeling? They can tend to get pretty tender, until you've been at it for a while. Just be careful! And remember...don't get to over anxcious! Take your time. You'll last a lot longer; and benefit a lot more in the longrun.

I'm not a boxer but I love doing it. So does it build muscle??? The original question was whether or not it builds uppper body strength. And is having wrist weights ok and does it help alot more???I know it works as a cardio because when I would punch my heavy bag for 2 or 3 minutes I would feel like I have been running.

Thanks for the replies. Sorry I am so late was out of town today.

I am using the free gloves that came with it. They are very thin bag gloves with a small type dowel in the palm inside the leather. I will be getting better ones, just wanted to try these first. I purchased wrist band supporters as they recommended I do. I can see why.

I really enjoy it and it does do a good cardio workout in a short period of time. Will let you know how I enjoy it as time goes by.

I am just sort of punching, no real routine. Hope to learn more about a routine as time goes on.

Thanks again for the replies.

i have been boxing for five years now and it is a great cardio work out. It wont really build muscle mass it will just make the muscles tighter and firmer giving a good ripped appearance.

Boy do I love my punching bag. I am just starting so I am taking it slow. I do 10 minutes or so on the treadmill then 5 to 10 minutes at a faily fast pace with the punching bad (doing the Ali shuffle all the while) then go back to the treadmill for another 10 to 15 minutes then a slow cool down for a few minutes. I feel great.

Have lost a little over 2 pounds since Monday. WOOHOO!!!