Double ended bag

[STORMCROW34]

I have a heavy and double ended bag set up in my garage. I spend plenty of time on the heavy bag and a little on the double ended bag. But I would like to incorporate more time on the double ended bag to improve my timing and precision in punch combinations in absence of a trainer with mits.

So any advice with reference to working out using a double ended bag would be great.

[ezzthetic]

Hi Micheal,

What type of double end bag do you have set up (manufacturer, model name) and do you keep it loose or stretched?

[STORMCROW34]

Hi Micheal,

What type of double end bag do you have set up (manufacturer, model name) and do you keep it loose or stretched?

Thanks for the reply Dadi. It's a generic bag I purchased on Ebay so I couldn't accurately tell you the brand name. It's the single ball type, leather, approximately 8"-12" diameter. Set up at chin height. The chords are a bit loose. I've knotted them many times but can't seem to get them much tighter. I may need to replace the bungee chords. The action is a bit erratic, but because they are somewhat loose, I get a fraction of a second longer to react. I was thinking about getting some smaller weighted bag gloves because the Everlast ones that I use on my heavy bag are bit bulky. So typically when I work the double ended bag, I do it bare fisted.

[ezzthetic]

First things first, as I don't know how much time you've spent on the bag before. I'd start with doing a simple LOA (Line Of Attack) drill. Get used to the idea of your centerline is directly facing the double end bag's centerline (the cord) and that when you fire your straight punches (mostly jabs) you are driving them into that opposite centerline. Get used to this idea even when you're on the move and practice stepping off the centerline with a step directly to your left or right (non-circling) before reengaging. This is a lot less obvious skill than it seems and will form a base for all other DEB skills.

[STORMCROW34]

I've spent some time on the double end bag, but it has been years since I've spent serious time working it. I'm familiar with straight punches and the proper basic technique in throwing them. Visualize a direct line from my centerline to the bags centerline, and when punching, follow that line from point "A" to point "B" with your fist followed by your arm and then quickly retract your arm on that very same line. I'm not quite sure what you mean about the body movement though. You mean while in the boxing stance? Or squared up with the bag? I understand basic foot movement, but I'm not quite sure why I would move off line without circling. For proper body alignment?

Thanks for your time EZZ.

[ezzthetic]

:) When you are facing the opponent's (DEB cord) centerline with your own, you are as open to attack as the opponent is. By practicing disengagement off the centerline, you learn to internalize the principle of controlling when the line is engaged. You'll only want it exposed when you have the initiative and while you are dropping leather on the bag (opponent). Practice stepping off the centerline by stepping directly to the sides and then turning on the front leg to reengage at will, all the while mindful of punching opportunities. Remember you can jab effectively even if you are disengaged.

[STORMCROW34]

Practice stepping off the centerline by stepping directly to the sides and then turning on the front leg to reengage at will, all the while mindful of punching opportunities. Remember you can jab effectively even if you are disengaged.


Ok that clears it up. Thanks Dadi, how long would you suggest working on that until moving on?

On another topic. Do you plan on interviewing Buddy McgGirt down here in Florida?

[ezzthetic]

Ok that clears it up. Thanks Dadi, how long would you suggest working on that until moving on?

Until it makes perfect sense and is completely internalized. Once that happens you'll be able to move on to other things, though you'll always be working these basic foundation skills along with them. Just let me know how you're progressing.


On another topic. Do you plan on interviewing Buddy McgGirt down here in Florida?

That's one man high on my list, and I've got some connections to possibly make that happen. Buddy McGirt is a great old school trainer who's especially good at coming up with great game plans. He's a master of style matchups and was also a great mechanic in the ring himself. Also any excuse to come to Florida (where I've only been as a fetus!) is acceptable to me! :cool:

PS I noticed you had edited your post while I was typing my previous one and posed additional questions. I'll answer them when I get back in couple of hours.

[STORMCROW34]

While you were responding, I was editing. In my mind I thought you were saying to move perpendicular to the DEB centerline without turning. But you cleared it up. I will let you know. Thanks again.

[Cameron]

Where in Florida will you be staying, Dadi?

[ezzthetic]

Where in Florida will you be staying, Dadi?

I haven't really planned that far ahead. My first trip will be to Canada to apprentice to a certain prominent Olympic level amateur coach (hopefully) and check out Vladimir Vassiliev's gym.


While you were responding, I was editing. In my mind I thought you were saying to move perpendicular to the DEB centerline without turning. But you cleared it up. I will let you know. Thanks again.

No problem. I had made a nice little diagram to explain my point, so I'll attach it anyway if it is of help to anyone else.

As you can see on the left side diagram, fighter B is facing fighter A, yet their lines are not engaged. On the right side diagram, the lines are engaged and there's a clear (equal) pathway for straight punches on both sides. The great thing about the DEB is that if you step off the line and turn onto it again by pivoting, the centerline is again facing you as if the opponent has turned toward you.