The punching bag is used to increase the strength and endurance of athletes. It is used by those who practice martial arts or boxing to perfect their technique. However, it is a rather expensive piece of equipment and therefore can be problematic for those who train on a tight budget. One solution to this problem is to build one yourself.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Using a PVC Pipe
Step 1. Take a PVC pipe and cut it to a length of 90 cm
Take your measurements and draw a line with a marker where you want to cut. You can use a specific cutter or a handsaw.
Step 2. Drill two holes on each end
One pair will be used to connect the tube to the base and the other to hang the bag.
Step 3. Create the base
With a compass, draw a circle on the plywood panel. Alternatively, use the bottom of a 20 L bucket as a template. With the saw cut out a disc with a diameter of 25 cm and then another 10 cm.
Step 4. Attach the 10cm disc to the PVC pipe
Insert it so that it lines up with the holes you drilled earlier. Run screws through these holes and the plywood to lock it inside the pipe.
Step 5. Connect the 25cm disc to the tube
Lay it on the end where the 10cm piece of plywood already is and fasten it to it with screws.
Step 6. Cut the carpet mat to size with a utility knife
The piece should be about the size of the pipe. In the upper part, the pipe must remain uncovered for about 10 cm, so that the holes remain exposed.
Step 7. Wrap the mat around the tube
Start by securing one edge with duct tape and then slowly roll it up until all the PVCs are covered. When you're done, block the second edge of the mat with sturdy tape as well.
Remember to wrap the rug so that it is tight and snug against the tube. The bag must be solid when you hit it
Step 8. Cover the mat with masking tape
Start from the base and work upwards, slightly overlapping each round with the previous one. This will result in a compact and tight layer of tape. You have to hide every millimeter of the mat that covers the PVC pipe.
Use as much tape as possible, but don't worry about completely covering the mat
Step 9. Thread a string through the two holes on the top of the tube
Make sure the segments coming out of the holes are the same length and then knot them together.
Step 10. Hang the bag
Find a spot where you can attack it. If you have decided to fix it to the ceiling, remember to insert the hook into a supporting beam, so that the bag does not fall and injure you.
Method 2 of 2: Using a Concrete Base
Step 1. Arrange three 5x10x20cm boards
These will form the sack pole. To create the shape you need, overlap two boards together and then place the third along the 5cm edge (which will actually be 10cm because the boards together have formed a structure twice as thick). Once glued, screw them on for added security.
Step 2. Insert long nails along the boards
You must let them protrude, so that they contribute to the stability of the structure within the concrete base.
Step 3. Attach a square piece of plywood to the planks
Nail it to the base of the planks. The square must be large enough to support the planks and keep them upright.
Step 4. Let the frame rest overnight
The glue must dry completely before proceeding with the next steps.
Step 5. Stack two tires on top of each other
Make sure they are well aligned, they will be the base of your bag.
Step 6. Pour the concrete into a wheelbarrow
Use four bags, so that you have enough to fill the inside of the tires. Place the bag on one end of the wheelbarrow and cut it with a hoe, pour the concrete and discard the bag.
- A wheelbarrow allows you to mix concrete without difficulty.
- You can use a spade or shovel instead of the hoe.
Step 7. Add water to the concrete
Now that the concrete is on one end of the wheelbarrow, add the water from the other end. Read the instructions on the bag to find out how much to use. If you overdo it, the cement will not be effective.
Keep about a quart of water on hand in case you need to add more
Step 8. Stir slowly
With the hoe, add the cement to the water. Keep stirring until all the powder is wet. As you mix, set the wet concrete aside to one side of the wheelbarrow.
Step 9. Pour the concrete into the tires
Insert the pole in the center and then completely fill the tires with concrete, making sure you don't leave any gaps. While the concrete is still fresh, check that the post is aligned and centered. Smooth the surface.
Wear safety gloves and goggles as you go through these steps. Cement can cause severe chemical burns
Step 10. Wait approximately two days for the framework to stabilize and the concrete to harden
If you proceed to the next steps when the concrete is still fresh, the post will not stay straight. In addition, as it hardens, the concrete becomes heavy; to move the structure, tilt it to one side and roll the base.
Step 11. Cut an old futon mattress in half
You will use it to stuff the bag. Place the pole on the ground. Secure one end of the mattress to the post using strong tape. Wrap the rest of the mattress around the post and close the free end with more tape. Make sure the mattress is wrapped tightly around the frame.
If you don't want to buy a futon, check the classifieds online as well to find someone who wants to get rid of theirs
Step 12. Cover the mattress with duct tape
Once securely attached to the pole, wrap the entire surface with sturdy tape. Make sure that each round slightly overlaps the previous one for compact and tight layers. You have to hide every millimeter of mattress that surrounds the structure; this way it will be stable and ready to be hit.
