Heavy Bag/Weighted Gloves

[Mar]

Hi Cathe,

A couple of times per week I do a boxer shuffle and punch a heavy bag for about 15 minutes in addition to a cardio workout. I also use weighted gloves (2lbs) during the drills in Cardio Kicks and CTX Kickbox (if I have the energy). My question is what is the benefit? Will punching a bag and using gloves define muscles or is it endurance/strength gains. I could be mistaken, but I thought I read once that boxers only train with the bags not weightlifting. Of course, I will always lift weights, but wonder if I'm getting bonus benefits from the other activities.

Thanks for your help and Happy Spring!

Mar

 

[LadyLwyr]

I used to work out w/ a heavy bag when I practiced Tang Soo Do (karate w/ a heavier focus on punching than many other styles). I really noticed a difference in my shoulders and triceps. They became slightly larger, harder, and much more defined. I stopped working out on the bag a while back (b/c of wrist problems and interest in other things), but lately I've considered taking it up again. I've recently started lifting and noticed that my triceps and shoulders are my favorite body parts to work, which I think has a lot to do w/ my heavy-bag experience. I don't know if I would give up lifting, but if you do for a period while you work out on the bag, I think your muscles will continue to grow and develop (at least your shoulders and triceps).

Tracy