A reflex bag is a circular, padded punching bag on a spring-loaded base used in boxing and martial arts to improve hand-eye coordination, timing, and defensive moves. It differs from a heavy bag, and proper techniques and accessories are important to avoid injury. It is easy to set up and store.
A reflex bag is a piece of exercise equipment used specifically in sports such as boxing and martial arts. It consists of a round, padded, circular bag on a spring loaded attached to a weighted base. To use this equipment, one hits the bag, which folds back on the spring and returns towards the point of impact. Therefore, many athletes use this type of punching bag to improve hand-eye coordination, timing, and perfect defensive moves.
Depending on how hard you hit the bag, the spring allows a backwards flexing motion that can even cause the bag to hit the floor. The bag can then mimic an opponent’s punch by returning to the user in a swift motion. In this way, an SLR bag tests the accuracy and timing of the user.
One can choose to pierce the bag when he returns. Another option is to practice swinging and weaving, as if dodging blows. This is done with quick footwork, shoving, and quick head movements. Blocking the bag with your arm or body is another way to train using the unique movements of this piece of equipment.
A reflex bag differs from a heavy bag, also commonly used by boxers and for strength training. A heavy bag generally allows the user to perform more powerful punches, punch combinations, and kicks. Those who attempt to use the reflex bag for these purposes often find the equipment to be of no use. Some complain that the smaller, lighter bag only works the arms, while a heavy bag promotes a full-body workout. Reflex bag believers, however, point out that using the equipment as if fighting a real opponent should require a wide variety of maneuvers that result in a challenging cardio workout.
Proper punching techniques and boxing accessories are important to avoid injury while using this equipment. One can wrap a long strip of cotton around the hands and wrists to help stabilize the joints. Boxing gloves that offer padding along the knuckles and reinforced wrists may also be beneficial for this workout. One should practice correct form by hitting the bag across the knuckles of the index and middle fingers, keeping the wrist straight and placing the body weight behind each strike.
Many people find the reflex bag not only useful, but also easy to set up around the home. Its relatively light base, which supports up to 60 pounds (27.3 kilograms), is less of a problem to move than much heavier punching bags. The equipment’s slim build also lends itself to its ease of storage.
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