Home Martial Arts 9 Best UK Free Standing Punching Bags – No Installation, No Chains

9 Best UK Free Standing Punching Bags – No Installation, No Chains

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Best Free Standing Punchbags UK

In this guide, we’re taking a look at some of the best free standing punching bags you can get for your cash in the UK today. We’re huge fans of boxing and martial arts training at Home Gym Experts, a sport that was going HIIT long before it was even invented!

If you’re training for a combat sport, martial arts, or just looking for a viciously exhausting cardio workout, a sturdy boxing dummy is a great way to practice punches, kicks and your footwork too.

Simple to set up and relatively easy to use, a these bags don’t require a stand ad are much easier to store in your home. There are a lot of reasons to choose one of these bags, rather than the more traditional hanging kind.

Best Overall
"Durable, stable, and comprehensive boxing set with high-quality materials."
  1. Brand: LEKÄRO
  2. Weight: 20 kg
  3. Material: Faux Leather, PU, Steel, EPE foam
  4. Size: 52W x 178H cm
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Amazon UK
Runner Up
"Durable, robust, and perfect for rigorous training sessions."
  1. Brand: RDX
  2. Weight: 150 kg
  3. Material: Maya Hide Leather, Anti-rip PU lining, EPE Foam
  4. Size: 65W x 181H cm
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Amazon UK
"Robust, stable, and perfect for MMA training."
  1. Brand: VIPER
  2. Size: 5.5 feet
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Amazon UK
"Robust, versatile, and exceptional for home workouts."
  1. Brand: Mytra Fusion
  2. Weight: 122.47 kg
  3. Material: Faux Leather
  4. Size: 6 feet
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Amazon UK
"Durable, easy assembly, excellent impact training."
  1. Brand: Gallant
  2. Weight: 16kg (bag) + 5.6kg (base)
  3. Material: Faux Leather, EPE foam, Microfiber
  4. Size: 90W x 160H cm
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Amazon UK
"Sturdy, versatile, and ideal for home training."
  1. Brand: Century
  2. Weight: 10 kg
  3. Material: Vinyl, Canvas, Nylon Coated
  4. Size: 121.9W x 61H cm
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Amazon UK
"Robust design, shock-absorbent, easy assembly, superb stability."
  1. Brand: Gallant
  2. Weight: 21.5 kg
  3. Material: High-grade dura leather, EPE foam padding
  4. Size: 2W x 1.94H metres
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Amazon UK
"Durable, easy to set up, versatile, and prompt delivery."
  1. Brand: Wolfx
  2. Weight: 82.55 kg
  3. Material: PU Leather, Stainless Steel
  4. Size: 50W x 180H cm
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Durable, versatile, stable, adjustable, and great value."
  1. Brand: UFC
  2. Weight: 17 kg
  3. Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
  4. Size: 64.5 x 34.5 cm
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Amazon UK

The 9 Best Free-standing Punchbags to buy in 2024

How we test and rank products. We like to think our methodology for evaluating and ranking products is one of the best in the industry and is spearheaded by our team of fitness experts who boast extensive experience in using and reviewing gym equipment. Our approach to identifying the top products in a specific category, such as 'Free Standing Punch Bags', begins with establishing key performance indicators like number user reviews, weight, and quality. We then meticulously compile our product roundup, focusing on how each item aligns with the user's needs. To ensure absolute impartiality, our final rankings are determined by an advanced AI algorithm that objectively analyzes the data collected during our testing phase. We trust that you will find this roundup insightful and valuable.
Top Pick
LekÄro Free Standing Punch Bag

LekÄro Free Standing Punch Bag

Essential gear for passionate boxers.

Sturdy, reliable, and inclusive of accessories—ideal for adult teens and kickboxing enthusiasts seeking a professional boxing experience at home.

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Brand: LEKÄRO
Weight: 20 kg
Material: Faux Leather, PU, Steel, EPE foam
Size: 52W x 178H cm
Why this made our roundup: Includes a pair of 12OZ boxing gloves for optimal hand protection during intense workouts.
When it comes to home gym equipment, the Free Standing Punch Bag is a popular choice for those looking for a versatile and effective way to improve their fitness and boxing skills. We found that this product offers great value for money, as it is affordable compared to its competitors. The easy assembly process, with clear instructions, makes it accessible to most users. Additionally, the stability of this punch bag is commendable, as it can hold up to 65kg of sand, providing excellent support during workouts. The quality of construction and materials is also impressive, ensuring durability and long-term use. With dimensions of approximately 178cm, it is suitable for most users without taking up too much space.

What we liked about the Free Standing Punch Bag is its great value for money, easy assembly, stability, quality construction, and suitable size for most users.

However, there are some drawbacks worth considering. Mobility can be an issue, as moving the punch bag without risking damage to the suction cups can be challenging. Filling the base with sand, especially if the sand is wet, may also pose a difficulty. While the suction cups are necessary for stability, they may not firmly fix the bag to the floor. Additionally, the limited height adjustment may not be ideal for taller users or those who need to kick at higher levels.

How does it compare to similar products in this category? While the Free Standing Punch Bag offers great value for money, easy assembly, and stability, its mobility and base filling challenges should be taken into account before making a purchase decision.

50 word summary of this product and who should buy it. About 50 words. The Free Standing Punch Bag from LEKÄRO offers great value for money, easy assembly, and impressive stability. It is suitable for most users and provides an effective way to improve boxing skills and overall fitness. However, potential buyers should consider its mobility and base filling challenges.

Pros
  • Value for Money: Priced affordably in comparison to its competitors.
  • Easy Assembly: Simple to put together with straightforward instructions.
  • Stability: Can be filled with sand for added heft, ensuring excellent stability.
  • Quality: Constructed with superior materials for durability and longevity.
  • Compact Size: Occupies minimal space while accommodating a wide range of users.
Cons
  • Mobility Issues: Challenging to move without compromising the suction cups' integrity.
  • Base Filling: Filling the base with sand can be cumbersome and difficult when the sand is moist.
  • Suction Cups: Although necessary for stability, they might not always secure the bag firmly to the floor.
Runner up
Rdx XXL 150KG 6ft Free Standing Punch Bag

Rdx XXL 150KG 6ft Free Standing Punch Bag

Essential gear for combat sports enthusiasts.

Sturdy, reliable, and weather-resistant, ideal for martial artists and boxing aficionados seeking a durable home training apparatus.

Save £7.00 TodayRRP £146.97
£139.97 at Amazon UK

Prices checked: 8th December, 01:40:36

Brand: RDX
Weight: 150 kg
Material: Maya Hide Leather, Anti-rip PU lining, EPE Foam
Size: 65W x 181H cm
Why this made our roundup: The RDX Free Standing Punch Bag is designed with a jolt-dampening base for enhanced stability during intense workouts.
The Free Standing Punch Bag from RDX is designed to meet the needs of home fitness enthusiasts and boxing practitioners. It features a sturdy construction, fast delivery, and weather-resistant materials, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. This punch bag is easy to assemble, providing a convenient training tool for tight spaces and offering a reliable punching experience.

What we liked:

The RDX Free Standing Punch Bag impresses with its fast delivery, easy assembly, and weather-resistant durability. Its sturdy construction and compact design make it ideal for home workouts, providing a convenient and effective training tool. This punch bag is also suitable for releasing stress and tension through intense workouts and boxing sessions.

What we didn't like:

While the punch bag offers many advantages, there are some concerns regarding quality control issues, inconsistent product quality, and limited stability. Users may encounter challenges related to missing or incorrect parts, as well as the need to fill the base with additional weight for improved stability.

How does it compare to similar products?

Compared to traditional heavy bags, the Free Standing Punch Bag offers the advantage of being suitable for tight spaces and outdoor use. However, users should consider the potential quality control issues and stability limitations when making a purchase decision.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The RDX Free Standing Punch Bag is a suitable option for individuals looking for a convenient and space-saving training solution for home workouts. However, potential quality control issues and stability concerns should be taken into account when considering this product.

Pros
  • Fast delivery: Exceeds expectations with prompt arrival.
  • Simple assembly: Effortless to set up, ready for use in no time.
  • Weather-resistant: Perfect for outdoor use, resilient against the elements.
  • Sturdy build: Robust construction ensures a solid and stable punching experience.
  • Quality materials: Durable Maya Hide leather for a lasting and functional punch bag.
Cons
  • Quality control issues: Some batches have had missing or incorrect parts.
  • Inconsistent quality: Occasional stitching flaws and absent bolts raise concerns.
  • Stability requirements: May need extra weighting for better stability.
Viper 5.5 FT Free Standing Boxing Filled Punch Bag Set MMA Kick Sports Fitness (5pcs)

Viper 5.5 FT Free Standing Boxing Filled Punch Bag Set MMA Kick Sports Fitness (5pcs)

Top choice for martial arts enthusiasts.

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for all levels of MMA practitioners. Offers excellent stability and durability for a comprehensive workout.

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Brand: VIPER
Size: 5.5 feet
Why this made our roundup: Includes a strong base that can be filled with sand for enhanced stability.
As professional gym gear reviewers, we know the importance of a reliable Free Standing Punch Bag for an effective training session. The VIPER 5.5 FT Free Standing Boxing Filled Punch Bag Set offers several impressive features that cater to the needs of users.

What we liked:

This punch bag is easy to set up, receiving positive feedback for its simple assembly process without any complications. Additionally, customers appreciated the great customer support, noting the helpful and responsive assistance provided. The durable construction and stable base offer users a long-lasting and stable training experience. Moreover, the product is considered to offer good value for its price point.

What we didn't like:

However, there were minor cons such as slight delivery issues and limited color options. Some users also noted size constraints and potential noise during intense usage. A small number of users desired more options for adjusting the height.

How does it compare to similar products?

Compared to other Free Standing Punch Bags, the VIPER 5.5 FT stands out with its durable construction, stable base, and responsive customer support, making it a favorable choice for those seeking reliable training equipment.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The VIPER 5.5 FT Free Standing Boxing Filled Punch Bag Set is an excellent choice for individuals looking for a durable and stable training experience. With its easy setup and good value, it caters to the needs of both beginners and experienced users.

Pros
  • Easy Assembly: Simple setup process, no complications.
  • Customer Support: Responsive and helpful assistance.
  • Durable: Sturdy build quality for longevity.
  • Stable Base: Allows for effective training without wobble.
  • Value for Money: High-quality product at a reasonable price point.
Cons
  • Delivery Issues: Minor delays and issues reported.
  • Limited Customisation: Restricted range of colours and sizes.
  • Potential Noise: Noise could be an issue during intense sessions.
Mytra Fusion Pedestal 6ft Boxing Bag Free Standing Punching Target Boxing Stand (Black Gold)

Mytra Fusion Pedestal 6ft Boxing Bag Free Standing Punching Target Boxing Stand (Black Gold)

Essential gear for comprehensive boxing training.

Sturdy, reliable, and affordable. Ideal for home gyms and boxing enthusiasts. Its durable construction offers long-lasting performance and supports various workout levels.

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Brand: Mytra Fusion
Weight: 122.47 kg
Material: Faux Leather
Size: 6 feet
Why this made our roundup: Features twelve punch patterns to enhance rhythm and focus during training.
Upon reviewing the 6 Feet Free Standing Punching Target, we found that it offers good quality and value for money. The affordable yet high-quality construction makes it an excellent investment for those seeking a versatile workout option for their home gym. Its solid and tall design caters well to taller individuals, allowing for a range of cardio and boxing workouts. The easy assembly process adds to its convenience, while the sturdiness of the materials ensures long-term durability. Furthermore, the responsive customer service and prompt delivery exceed expectations.

What we liked:

The 6 Feet Free Standing Punching Target offers excellent value for money with its sturdy construction and versatility for various workouts. It is suitable for family use and caters to multiple fitness levels, making it a versatile option.

Additionally, the stable design when filled with sand and its compact, space-saving build make it a practical choice for home gyms or workout spaces.

What we didn't like:

However, users may encounter challenges during assembly, particularly when filling the base. The bag may also exhibit limited stability when filled with water, impacting intense workout sessions.

Furthermore, individuals engaging in powerful kicking exercises may find the bag less suitable due to limited stability.

How does it compare to similar Free Standing Punch Bags?

Compared to similar options, the 6 Feet Free Standing Punching Target stands out for its affordable yet high-quality build, making it suitable for various workouts and family use. However, it may exhibit limitations in stability for certain workout intensities.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The freestanding punch bag offers excellent value for money with its sturdy construction and versatility for various workouts, making it suitable for family use. However, users may encounter challenges during assembly and may find limitations in stability for certain workout intensities, particularly with the base filled with water.

Pros
  • Quality and Value: High-quality materials at an affordable price point.
  • Height and Versatility: Tall enough for diverse workouts, catering to all heights.
  • Easy Assembly: Simple setup process for a hassle-free start.
  • Durable Construction: Constructed with robust materials for extended use.
  • Customer Service: Exceptional support with responsive assistance.
Cons
  • Assembly Challenges: Filling the base can be intricate and may need adjustments.
  • Water Stability Issues: Using water for the base may lead to instability with vigorous training.
  • Disassembly Difficulty: Disassembling for relocation or refilling is cumbersome.
Gallant 5.5ft Free Standing Punch Bag

Gallant 5.5ft Free Standing Punch Bag

Stellar choice for impactful boxing training.

Sturdy, reliable, and suitable for users of all ages, the Gallant punch bag is a stellar investment for honing boxing skills and improving physical fitness.

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Brand: Gallant
Weight: 16kg (bag) + 5.6kg (base)
Material: Faux Leather, EPE foam, Microfiber
Size: 90W x 160H cm
Why this made our roundup: Quick and easy to assemble, you'll be ready to train in minutes with Gallant's free-standing punch bag.
As a team of professional gym gear reviewers and experts, we have carefully evaluated the Free Standing Punch Bag from Gallant. This punch bag impresses with its sturdy construction, making it a durable and reliable option for impactful training. It is easy to assemble, ensuring immediate use without hassle. The high-quality materials used in its construction offer excellent value for money, exceeding expectations in terms of durability and reliability.

What we liked:

This punch bag's sturdy build and quality provide a reliable surface for serious impact training. Additionally, its well-designed narrow base and tilt mechanism enable easy movement and footwork, catering to a versatile range of users, including both kids and adults.

What we didn't like:

While the punch bag offers exceptional value, some concerns have been raised regarding its stability due to the narrow base design. Additionally, a persistent chemical smell and limited height may affect the overall user experience for certain individuals.

How does it compare to similar products in this category?

Compared to other free standing punch bags, the Gallant Punch Bag stands out for its solid construction, providing excellent value for money. However, its narrow base design may pose stability issues compared to other models.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Gallant Free Standing Punch Bag offers excellent value for both beginners and experienced users seeking a reliable and versatile training option. Despite some minor drawbacks, its durable construction and customer service make it a worthy investment for impactful boxing practice.

Pros
  • Sturdy build: The punch bag's high-quality materials ensure it's both durable and reliable.
  • Impact absorption: Heavy padding and design cater to effective strike absorption.
  • Design for movement: The base and tilt mechanism promote easy movement and footwork.
  • Excellent service: Gallant is noted for their prompt and efficient customer service.
  • Great for beginners: An ideal starting point for those new to boxing, accommodating a range of skills.
Cons
  • Stability issue: The narrow base may compromise stability when struck with force.
  • Chemical odour: Some users report an unpleasant persistent chemical smell from the bag.
Century Wavemaster. Freestanding Punch Bag

Century Wavemaster. Freestanding Punch Bag

Unleash your potential with Century Wavemaster.

Sturdy, reliable and ideal for practitioners of all heights. The Century Wavemaster is a worthy investment for enhancing your training at home.

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Brand: Century
Weight: 10 kg
Material: Vinyl, Canvas, Nylon Coated
Size: 121.9W x 61H cm
Why this made our roundup: Its adjustable height accommodates various training preferences and body statures.
The Free Standing Punch Bag offers a convenient indoor workout solution, eliminating the need for ceiling installation. Its easy assembly and adjustable height cater to various users' preferences, making it suitable for the whole family. The durable and stable construction provides an effective shock absorption for a realistic boxing experience.

What we liked:

We appreciated the easy assembly, adjustable height, and durable, stable design that offers a realistic boxing experience. The fast delivery and lightweight nature make it convenient for different workout arrangements.

What we didn't like:

However, the excessive noise, large base, and unattractive appearance may pose challenges for some users, particularly those in apartments with poor sound insulation. Additionally, the limited indoor use and size-related disappointments may deter potential buyers.

How does it compare to similar products?

Compared to traditional hanging punch bags, the Free Standing Punch Bag offers the advantage of indoor use without the need for ceiling installation. However, it may produce more noise and occupy more space, making it less suitable for certain environments.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

In summary, the Free Standing Punch Bag is a convenient and adjustable option for indoor boxing workouts, suitable for the whole family. However, its potential noise issues and size-related disappointments should be considered before purchase.

Pros
  • Perfect for indoor use: Optimal for home workouts, eliminating the need for ceiling fixtures.
  • Easy assembly: Quick set-up process, offering hassle-free preparation for training.
  • Adjustable height: Customisable for users of varying statures, enhancing workout versatility.
  • Durable and stable: Provides a lifelike boxing experience with efficient shock absorption.
  • No water leakage: Well-constructed to prevent seepage, ensuring longevity and cleanliness.
Cons
  • Excessive noise: Generates significant noise which may disrupt others, particularly in poorly soundproofed living spaces.
  • Difficulty returning: Restrictive return policy requiring original packaging can inconvenience dissatisfied customers.
  • Unappealing design: Bulky base and lacklustre aesthetic could detract from your living space.
Gallant 6ft Max Strike 360 Free Standing Punch Bag

Gallant 6ft Max Strike 360 Free Standing Punch Bag

Enhance your boxing with Gallant's 6ft excellence.

Sturdy, shock-absorbent and portable, Gallant's Free Standing Punch Bag suits boxers and martial artists, offering a reliable practice companion at a reasonable cost.

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Brand: Gallant
Weight: 21.5 kg
Material: High-grade dura leather, EPE foam padding
Size: 2W x 1.94H metres
Why this made our roundup: With its 5cm thick EPE foam padding, the Gallant Punch Bag provides a shock-absorbent experience, reducing the risk of injury during training.
As professional gym gear reviewers and experts, we are always on the lookout for top-quality equipment to enhance our training sessions. Today, we are excited to share our insights on the Gallant 6ft Max Strike 360 Free Standing Punch Bag. This freestanding punch bag presents a great alternative to traditional hanging bags, boasting a small base chassis, 6ft height, good resistance, and targets for strike points.

What we liked:

This punch bag offers an excellent alternative to traditional hanging bags, with its small base chassis, sturdy construction, and targets for strike points. The 6ft height and good resistance make it ideal for a variety of combat sports and fitness training.

What we didn't like:

However, we found that the product is marred by delivery issues, with reports of delayed and problematic delivery, as well as potential durability concerns. Some users have experienced issues with the bag rocking when filled with water and have noted material prone to denting, affecting its long-term usability.

How does it compare to similar Free Standing Punch Bags?

Compared to other free standing punch bags, the Gallant 6ft Max Strike 360 offers a good balance of features and quality. While it excels in providing a sturdy and versatile training tool, potential delivery and durability issues could impact its long-term value.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

This free standing bag is a solid investment for those seeking a versatile and durable training tool. However, potential delivery and durability concerns should be taken into account before making a purchase decision.

Pros
  • Sturdy build: Stands 6ft tall with a narrow, stable base, ensuring a solid and steady experience.
  • Quality material: Constructed with high-grade dura leather and thick foam padding for durability.
  • Easy to set up: Simple assembly with no equipment required, promoting convenience and portability.
  • Indoor/Outdoor use: Designed for versatility, suitable for both indoor and outdoor training sessions.
  • Value for money: Offers excellent quality at an affordable price, making it a cost-effective training tool.
Cons
  • Delivery concerns: Potential for delayed shipments and issues upon arrival, affecting customer satisfaction.
  • Durability questions: Some users found the material prone to denting, raising long-term durability questions.
Wolfx Adult Free Standing Boxing Punch Bag

Wolfx Adult Free Standing Boxing Punch Bag

Durable and versatile punching solution.

Sturdy, reliable, and suitable for a diverse user base, this free standing punch bag is a worthwhile investment for home workouts.

Save £30.00 TodayRRP £169.97
£139.97 at Amazon UK

Prices checked: 8th December, 01:40:36

Brand: Wolfx
Weight: 82.55 kg
Material: PU Leather, Stainless Steel
Size: 50W x 180H cm
Why this made our roundup: The punch bag's base ensures stability for consistent training sessions.
Upon reviewing the Wolfx Adult Free Standing Boxing Punch Bag, we found that it offers a sturdy and reliable option for home workouts. This punch bag is well-made and durable, withstanding powerful punches, providing excellent performance. The package includes all necessary components for quick and simple assembly, ensuring easy setup. Additionally, the bag can effectively absorb impact and withstand heavy use, catering to both adults and kids, thus offering versatile use. What we liked about the Free Standing Punch Bag: The sturdy construction and durable build make it suitable for intense workouts and heavy use. The easy setup with all necessary components included ensures a hassle-free assembly, saving time and effort. This punch bag's excellent performance in absorbing impact caters to a wide range of users, making it suitable for both adults and kids. What we didn't like about the Free Standing Punch Bag: While the punch bag offers exceptional features, the limited accessories included may require users to purchase additional boxing gloves separately for optimal use. Furthermore, initial confusion regarding the contents of the delivered packages caused frustration, highlighting the need for clearer packaging information. How does it compare to similar Free Standing Punch Bags? Compared to similar free-standing punch bags, the punch bag offers reliable durability and versatile use. However, the need for additional accessories and initial packaging confusion may impact the overall user experience. Verdict: Is it worth a buy? In summary, the free standing bag provides a sturdy and reliable home workout option with convenient setup and efficient performance. However, the need for additional accessories and initial confusion regarding the packaging were noted as drawbacks. A 50-word summary of this product is that it caters to a wide range of users and offers a durable and efficient option for home workouts.
Pros
  • Sturdy construction: Well-crafted design ensures durability and resilience.
  • Easy setup: Comes with all necessary components, allowing for a quick assembly.
  • Excellent performance: Capable of absorbing high impacts and suitable for heavy-duty use.
  • Versatile use: Designed for a broad demographic, including both adults and children.
  • Convenient delivery: Arrives promptly in two manageable boxes.
Cons
  • Limited accessories: Boxing gloves must be bought separately.
  • Misleading packaging: The packaging initially causes confusion, which can be frustrating.
Ufc Contender Free Standing Punch Bag

Ufc Contender Free Standing Punch Bag

Professional-grade punch bag for home use.

Sturdy, reliable, and adjustable for users of all heights, the UFC Free Standing Punch Bag enhances home workouts, making it a smart purchase for fitness enthusiasts.

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Brand: UFC
Weight: 17 kg
Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Size: 64.5 x 34.5 cm
Why this made our roundup: Height-adjustable up to 180cm, catering to athletes of various statures.
The free-standing punch bag is a versatile and durable piece of equipment, suitable for various types of martial arts and workouts. Its sturdy construction ensures stability during intense training sessions, while the adjustable height makes it suitable for users of all sizes. The bag's shock absorption capabilities effectively reduce strain on joints, providing a comfortable and professional-grade workout experience.

What we liked:

We found the durability and stability of the punch bag impressive, providing a gym-quality experience at home. Its versatility and ease of assembly make it suitable for all ages and skill levels.

What we didn't like:

While the punch bag offers great value for money, it does produce some noise during intense strikes and requires a significant amount of space. Some users also experienced slight movement due to base stability.

How does it compare to similar gym equipment?

Compared to traditional hanging punch bags, the free-standing punch bag offers greater mobility and convenience, making it suitable for home use. However, it may not be ideal for pivoting or moving target training.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The free-standing punch bag offers durability, versatility, and stability for a professional-grade workout. While it may produce some noise and require ample space, its value, portability, and shock absorption make it a worthwhile investment for home or gym use.

Pros
  • Durable: Robust construction ensures longevity.
  • Versatile: Appropriate for diverse martial arts and fitness routines.
  • Stable: Maintains its position even under vigorous use.
  • Adjustable: Height settings accommodate different users comfortably.
  • Shock absorption: Reduces joint strain effectively.
Cons
  • Noise: May generate sound during intense use which could be disruptive.
  • Space requirement: Occupies a considerable amount of room.

What’s the difference between free-standing and hanging punch bags?

difference between Free Standing vs Hanging Punch Bags

There are two general types of free-standing boxing bag; hanging bags and free-standing bags.

Hanging bags, also called heavy bags, are easy to recognise. Anyone who’s ever trained in a boxing gym (or seen Rocky) will recognise them on sight. A hanging bag is attached to a metal brace that’s anchored into a wall or ceiling, with the attachment point at the top.

Heavy bags need a lot of space, and also need a structurally sound wall or ceiling to hang it from, as bags like these generally weigh anywhere from 60 to way over 100lbs. If you’d like to try boxing without splashing out on a full-size bag, see our guide on HIIT boxing at home.

Free-standing bags, on the other hand, can go almost anywhere. They’re much simpler to use indoors, because you don’t need to anchor them anywhere, meaning you don’t have to drill into a wall, and their weight is spread across a large, stable area.

This gives you a lot more freedom with your bag. You can move a big if you decide that you don’t like it in a certain space or need it somewhere different, and in general, they just take up a lot less room, especially in a home gym.

A standing punchbag also feels different from a heavy bag when it’s hit. The fact that it’s free-standing rather than hanging means that it flexes from the bottom, with the top half moving back further than the bottom.

Another good option if you’re upgrading your home gym is to pick up a multigym that comes with a boxing station. These gyms are super heavy which makes for a sturdy base to hang your bag from.

Sizing your punching bag

One of the biggest things that affect the performance of a free standing bag is how big and tall it is. Bags sized for adults tend to run from 5 to over 6 feet tall, sometimes with adjustable height, and weigh anywhere from 40 to upwards of 100lbs unfilled.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a bag that’s around half your total weight and at around the same height as you at maximum extension. This should give the bag enough solidity that it’s going to react to strikes without flailing wildly or toppling, even if you seriously lay into it.


Final thoughts

The market for fight gear is immense, and making the right choice can be tough. Making sure that you’ve got the best free standing option, even after reading a guide like this, is difficult, so if you’ve got any questions or recommendations of your own, get in touch and leave us a comment below!