Boxing training has changed little over the years. Training methods and tools include many variations, but the essence remains the same: A fighter must learn to punch harder, faster and more accurately, building his endurance and ability to avoid counterattacks as he does so. There are only so many ways you can train for this.
Types
The methods available to boxers have remained essentially the same over the years. Running and jumping rope take care of cardiovascular fitness. Calisthenics build muscular endurance. Weightlifting adds strength and power. Shadow boxing builds fluidity, footwork and speed. Hitting focus mitts increases speed and accuracy. Then there is bag work, where there is a great deal of variety. From the humble punch bag, we now have the heavy bag, the double-end bag, the speed ball, the floor-to-ceiling ball and the teardrop bag, allowing a fighter to work almost every aspect of boxing alone.
Features
Boxing dummies, or mannequins, are one of the newer inventions to find their way into boxing. They are built around a weighted base that stops them from moving around or toppling over and resemble a man's head and torso mounted on an upright shaft. They are typically built from plastic and high-density foam, sometimes mimicking the feel of a real body, allowing them to absorb impact and giving you the feel of striking a real target.
Benefits
You can practice on a mannequin almost anything you would normally do on a punch bag. The main advantage is the mannequin's resemblance to a live opponent, encouraging you to be more accurate in your strikes as you aim for precision as well as power. You can aim for specific areas such as the liver or the chin. They are also relatively small, and since they are freestanding, they are easier to set up than a punch bag with wall fittings.
Warning
Mannequins are usually less durable and less stable than a typical heavy bag. If you are planning to work on power punching, you may find a mannequin starts to deteriorate or fall apart. Your mannequin may also slide around as you strike it, which can be helpful if you want to develop footwork but which can also be a problem if you are in a confined space. Mannequins also can topple over if struck with enough force.
Considerations
Boxing dummies are often fairly expensive and less durable than a typical punch bag, but they can be fun and inventive ways to add spice and imagination to your training. If you are a serious boxer with every other conceivable piece of equipment, you may benefit from another tool, or you might choose it over a punch bag if you are looking for something to hit to relieve stress. But for most people, a punching dummy should be low on their list of priorities; a punch bag is more versatile, durable and affordable.
Posted in: Boxing Training