Muay Thai is a deadly martial art and one of the key arts used in MMA fighting. And when you’re away from a dojo, it’s a great idea to use a punching bag at home to hone your game. But what is the best freestanding punching bag for Muay Thai?
The first thing is to determine where your training will take place; the space available.
The main difference between a freestanding bag and a traditional heavy bag or a banana bag is that the former can be easily moved around, and you don’t have to hang it up. A boxing bag belongs to the latter category.
So, freestanding punching bags are great for home gyms.
In this review, I focused on the best models so that you can choose the best option. I teased out their key features, pros, and cons.
As you would expect, these bags come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are expensive, while others are relatively inexpensive. The best models have commonalities that we’ll get into.
Let’s dive right into my . . .
21 Best Freestanding Punching Bags for Muay Thai
Then at the bottom, I’ll list my #1 overall pick and my #1 budget pick!
1. Century Wavemaster XXL Punching Bag – Under $400
The Century Wavemaster XXL is great for a serious martial arts practitioner of any skill level who wants a tall bag with a heavy base that can take a beating. This model offers much space and would last a long time. In fact, twice the area offered by the original Wavemaster.
Its exterior is hand-sewn and is made of tear-resistant durable vinyl over high-density foam.
It employs a proprietary stem stabilization system for striking feedback. It is 69 inches tall, measures 18 x 52 inches, and is 270 pounds when filled up. You can fill it with water or sand. And it’s easy to move, simply tilt it and move it.
Pros:
- It has enough space. It measures 52 inches tall and 18 inches in diameter
- Its low-profile base distributes the base evenly
- It’s made with durable high-density foam and is covered with vinyl
Cons:
- It is expensive
- Some folks think it’s not very stable
- Its height is not adjustable
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
2. FITVEN Free Standing Punching Bag – Under $200
FITVEN is designed in such a way that it saves space while packing a lot of power.
It has absorbers and springs that deliver fast rebound and provides full shock and noise absorption.
It has 12 strong suction cups to keep it in place on smooth and even floors and a round base that makes it easy to roll it around.
FITVEN is a great choice because of its features, such as a stainless steel core, around which a multi-layer body made of high-density foam and fabric is used, and its exterior is made with tear-resistant synthetic leather.
It weighs 205 pounds and is almost 6 feet in height.
Pros:
- It is relatively light yet stable because of its 12 suction cups
- It is tall
- It’s made with durable high-density foam and fabric
- 360 degrees shock and noise absorption
- Comes with free boxing gloves
- It is affordable and easy to set up and install.
Cons:
- Some folks think the suction cups make it less mobile
- Its height is not adjustable
- It can only be used on a smooth surface
- The punching surface is relatively small
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
3. Everlast Power Core Bag – Under $150
Everlast Power Core Bag’s air-foam chamber is one of the best punching bags. It is adjustable from 54 inches to 65 inches. It has a power transfer ring that absorbs the impact of the hits and prevents the base from sliding down.
Pros:
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- Its compact, round design makes it easy to use
- It is tall and its height is adjustable from 54″ to 65″
- It’s made with durable high-density foam and fabric
- Easily absorbs impact and reduces sliding
- Ultra-stable when filled with sand (weighs 370 pounds)
- It is affordable
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Cons:
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- Some folks think it’s not ideal for “heavy hitters”
- Some folks think it’s a tad hard to set up
- It is not recommended for outside use
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CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
Based on your experience, would you say that Muay Thai is difficult to learn? This is the theme of a recent article I published.
In it, I looked at how long it will take to learn Muay Thai and whether a beginner can learn Muay Thai. And I explored how many moves Muay Thai has and whether it is harder than BJJ. But I also get into whether it is worth it to even learn it.
Just click the link to read it on my site. (By the way, I also revealed something vital about Muay Thai’s effects that one must know).
4. Dripex Freestanding Punching Bag – Under $160
Dripex freestanding punching bag’s core is a stainless-steel tube with multi-layer construction. It has a rounded ABS base that makes it a breeze to move around.
It has 12 suction cups that keep it stable, and it’s about 69 inches tall. For maximum stability, fill with sand. It’s 205 lbs. when filled with sand.
Pros:
- It is easy to set up
- It’s strong and stable because of its suction cups
- It has a shock absorption system
- It’s compact so it does not take much space
- It comes with a free pair of boxing gloves
- Works on any even floor
- Ultra-stable when filled with sand (weighs 205 pounds)
- It is affordable
Cons:
- It has a high center of mass (it could tip over if you hit it too hard)
- The hole for filling the base is small
- Some users say the suction cups are not as effective as they ought to be
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
5. RORALA Punching Bag – Under $160
RORALA punching bag employs multi-layered construction. It has a stainless-steel core, PU leather, and dense foam. It can be easily moved around.
Pros:
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- It is easy to set up
- It’s made with high-quality materials
- It has a shock absorption system (4 springs and 2 absorbers)
- Springs can be removed for less vibration
- It’s very tall ( 70 inches)
- It comes with a free pair of boxing gloves
- It comes with 12 sucking cups to keep it stable
- Ultra-stable when filled with sand (weighs 203 pounds)
- It is affordable
- One year warranty
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Cons:
- Some users say it is a tad hard to set up
- Some users say the suction cups fall off
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
Seeing as you’ve been doing Muay Thai for a while, you’ve probably wondered if it’s effective in MMA. You have, right?
Interestingly, that’s the theme of a recent article I published.
In it, I looked at whether it’s worth it to learn Muay Thai. I shared info on how many MMA fighters know Muay Thai and if Muay Thai is the best for MMA. But I also revealed whether Muay Thai is effective in street fights and why Muay Thai is so effective in MMA.
Just click the link to read it on my site.
6. Century Original Wavemaster Punching Bag – Under $200
Century Original Wavemaster provides strong resistance and rebounding. It is a good option relative to other Century models. It has an adjustable height, so it’s great for any practitioner. Low kicks and high kicks are a breeze.
Pros:
- It is easy to set up
- Its interior is high-density foam, exterior is durable vinyl
- It is easy to move around (simply tilt and roll)
- Its height is adjustable
- It’s very tall (68 inches)
- It comes with a free pair of boxing gloves
- It comes with 12 sucking cups to keep it stable
- Ultra-stable when filled with sand (weighs 270 pounds)
Cons:
- Some users say the base is not very stable
- Some users say it’s not sturdy enough for “heavy hitters”
- The hole in the base is small
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
7. Century Uppercut Wavemaster Punching Bag – Under $300
The Century Uppercut Wavemaster Punching Bag has a unique shape: it’s slightly conical.
This makes it ideal for all kinds of kicks. Its height is adjustable from 47 inches to 68 inches in 7 increments.
Pros:
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- It is easy to set up
- Its interior is high-impact foam, exterior is durable vinyl
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
- Its height is adjustable
- It’s very tall ( 68 inches)
- It comes with a one-year warranty
- Ultra-stable when filled with sand (weighs 270 pounds)
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Cons:
- It’s difficult to fill the base
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
8. Ringside Elite Freestanding Bag – Under $450
The Ringside Elite freestanding bag is built to take strong hits. It is made of shock-absorbing foam encased in a durable vinyl shell. Its plastic base tank can be filled with 240 lbs. of sand or 150 lbs. of water. It offers a full 15” x 56” striking surface.
Pros:
- It can take strong hits
- It absorbs shock easily
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
- Padding offers protection when you kick
- Removable foam collar increases/decreases movement
Cons:
- It’s difficult to fill the base
- Its height is not adjustable
- It’s expensive
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
9. Century Versys Fight Simulator – Under $300
The Century Versys Fight Simulator is a superb freestanding bag that is arguably the most versatile on the market.
It’s a freestanding bag and a grappling dummy in one package.
As such, it’s great for both standup and ground training. It has a durable vinyl shell and a pre-filled base.
It’s an Amazon’s choice product.
Pros:
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- Great for standup and ground fighting
- It has a large striking surface
- It is super easy to move around
- It’s got handles that make kicks easier
- Provides natural rebounds
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Cons:
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- Some folks felt it tilts too easily
- Its height is not adjustable
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- It’s very expensive
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
10. PEXMORE Free Standing Punching Bag – Under $180
PEXMORE freestanding bag’s features include a suction cup base, noise and shock reduction properties, and the use of eco-friendly materials.
Pros:
- Durable high-density foam and thick PU leather
- It has 12 suction cups for added grip on the floor
- It is super easy to move around
- It’s got 2 absorbers and 4 springs for noise and shock absorption
Cons:
- Even flooring is needed for the suction cups to work properly
- Its height is not adjustable
- The base’s fill hole is very small
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
11. Xsport Pro Free Standing Punching Bag – Under $180
Xsport Pro Free Standing Punching Bag is built to last.
It consists of multiple layers and is made with eco-friendly materials.
It has 12 suction cups to keep it stable and has noise and shock-absorbing properties.
Pros:
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- 12 suction cups to keep it stable
- It has noise and shock absorption properties
- It is super easy to move around
- Multilayer construction that ensures durability and prevents injuries
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Cons:
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- Some folks felt that the suction cups are not effective
- Its height is not adjustable
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CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
12. Ringside Tornado Freestanding Punching Bag – Under $325
The Ringside Tornado freestanding bag has a durable nylon cover. Its plastic base tank can be filled with 140 lbs. of water for extra stability.
It offers a full 24” x 11” striking surface, and its total height is 68 inches.
Pros:
- It can take strong hits
- Fast rebounds make for realistic hits
- It absorbs shock easily
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
- It is compact, so it doesn’t take much space
- Foam interior and vinyl cover provide resistance and protection
Cons:
- Its striking area is a bit smaller than others
- Height adjustments are not possible
- It’s a bit expensive
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
13. Century Powerline Extra Large Wavemaster – Under $250
The Century Powerline Wavemaster extra-large has twice as much high-density foam as the original Wavemaster.
As such, it’s more durable and can absorb greater shock. It’s got the largest striking area of any freestanding bag.
It is 52 inches tall and 18 inches wide.
The total dimension of the bag, including its base, is 69 inches tall and has a diameter of 28 inches. Its base can be filled with water or sand for a maximum weight of 270 pounds to keep it stable.
Pros:
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- It can take strong hits (twice as much high-density foam than the original model)
- It’s got adjustable height (from 47 to 68 inches in 7 increments)
- It’s got a large striking area
- It absorbs shock easily
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
- Foam interior and vinyl cover provide resistance and protectio
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Cons:
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- Some folks complained that the striking surface slips on occasions
- It seemed to move too easily
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CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
14. RDX Free Standing Punching Bag – Under $200
The RDX Freestanding Punching Bag is made with durable Maya leather and has dense foam padding. It has 17 suction cups to keep it stable.
The base also has 8 extensible legs that can extend the base area.
Pros:
- It can take strong hits
- It provides a wide striking area (height 185 cm, diameter 35 cm)
- It’s got a large striking area
- High-density foam padding makes it comfortable and ensures noise and shock absorption
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
Cons:
- Some folks complained that the base is not sturdy enough
- Some folks complained that the suction cups came off
- Its height is not adjustable
CLICK HERE to see the current price on their site.
15. GIKPAL Freestanding Punching Bag – Under $150
The GIKPAL Freestanding Punching Bag is an Amazon choice’s product.
As such, it is an ideal choice when you’re considering free standing punch bags.
It has a shock-absorbing system in place.
And it even has a noise absorption rubber to reduce the sound emitted as you train so that others are not disturbed.
Multi-layer construction is employed to make it durable. Its core is a stainless-steel tube with high-density EPE foam and tear-resistant leather.
It’s got 12 suction cups to keep it stable, and its base can be filled with water or sand.
Pros:
- It can take strong hits
- It’s tall (67 inches)
- It’s very stable
- High-density foam padding makes it comfortable and ensures noise and shock absorption
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
Cons:
- Some folks complained that it feels rather heavy when they want to move it
- Its height is not adjustable
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
16. Century Body Opponent Bag – Under $350
The Century body opponent bag offers a more realistic training scenario because the bag (mannequin) is shaped to resemble the head and the torso of a man. It’s a more realistic simulation of actually punching a human being.
Its height is adjustable from 60 to 78 inches in 7 increments. It can weigh up to 270 pounds when filled with water or sand.
Pros:
- It can take strong hits
- It is sturdy and resistant
- Adjustable height
- One-year limited warranty
- High-density foam padding makes it comfortable and ensures noise and shock absorption
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
Cons:
- Not ideal for low body techniques
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
17. Century BOB XL – Under $450
The Century body opponent bag offers a more realistic training scenario because the bag (mannequin) is shaped to resemble the head and the torso of a man. This is a bigger version of the one we explored in the preceding section.
It’s a more realistic simulation of actually punching a human being. Its height is adjustable from 60 to 78 inches in 7 increments.
It can weigh up to 270 pounds when filled with water or sand.
You have a bigger striking area to practice all manner of deadly hits. An important factor in making a good choice is that it should be approximately half your weight. Century BOB XL definitely fits the bill.
Pros:
- It can take strong hits
- It is sturdy and resistant
- Adjustable height
- One-year limited warranty
- High-density foam padding makes it comfortable and ensures noise and shock absorption
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
Cons:
- Not ideal for low body techniques
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
18. Ringside Cobra Reflex Bag – Under $250
The Ringside Cobra reflex bag is great for improving your timing and technique, as it offers rapid rebounds. It will help you improve your hand-eye coordination. It has a ballast rating for up to 140 pounds of water, it’s sturdy and powerful. It has a height adjustment range between 60 to 84 inches.
So you can prepare for any opponent. It is made entirely with foam, so no need to worry about leaks or burst air bladders. Reflex bags help you improve your reflexes. They are effective speed bags.
Pros:
- Fast rebound speeds
- Adjustable height
- A solid steel body makes it strong
- No leaks or air bladder busts
- High-density foam padding
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
Cons:
- It is expensive
- It might be too fast for some folks
- Fit and finish could be improved
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
19. Everlast Omniflex Freestanding Bag – Under $175
The Everlast Omniflex is relatively easier to move around as it is only 130 pounds.
It’s intuitive to use. You can easily set it up. Its omniflex neck allows for maximum impact absorption and reduced base movement.
It’s made with high-grade shock-absorbing foam.
Pros:
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- Easy to set up and use
- Adjustable height
- Lightweight and compact
- Nevatear outer shell enhances durability
- High-density foam padding
- Its rounded base makes it easy to move around
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Cons:
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- Some folks thought it was too springy
- It might be too fast for folks who aren’t heavy hitters
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CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
20. Mytra Fusion Pedestal Free Standing Punching Bag – Under $300
The Mytra Fusion Pedestal freestanding punching bag is sexy and powerful. It is made with high-grade synthetic PU leather and is stitched using a RAW triple-needle Pico thread, making it durable. It’s about 6 feet, with the target area marked with different scores.
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use
- Made of high-quality materials
- Enhanced precision and accuracy (because it is marked)
- It is tall (6 feet)
- The design of the base makes it stable
Cons:
- Some heavy hitters thought it was not sturdy enough
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
21. XDDIAS Freestanding Punching Bag with Suction Cup Base – Under $160
The Gallant 6 feet freestanding bag is made with soft EPE foam and is filled with microfibre pieces.
Its exterior is strong PU-grade textured leather.
Pros:
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- Easy to set up and use
- Made of high-quality materials
- A narrow base makes it easy to move around
- shock absorbing capability (EPE foam padding)
- It is tall (6 feet)
- It is attractive
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- Some heavy hitters thought it was not sturdy enough
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CLICK HERE to see the current price on their site.
Say you had to choose between Kickboxing or Muay Thai; which one would you pick? In a recent article I published, I compared both martial arts to find out if Kickboxing is better.
I shared info on whether Kickboxing and Muay Thai are the same. And I get into whether the former is safer than Muay Thai and if Kickboxing is the best fighting style. But I also revealed which one is better for fitness and for self-defense.
Just click the link to read it on my site.
Overall Best Muay Thai punching bag:
FITVEN Free Standing Punching Bag – Under $200
FITVEN is designed in such a way that it saves space while packing a lot of power.
It has absorbers and springs that deliver fast rebound and provides full shock and noise absorption.
It has 12 strong suction cups to keep it in place on smooth and even floors and a round base that makes it easy to roll it around.
FITVEN is a great choice because of its features, such as a stainless steel core, around which a multi-layer body made of high-density foam and fabric is used, and its exterior is made with tear-resistant synthetic leather.
It weighs 205 pounds and is almost 6 feet in height.
Pros:
- It is relatively light yet stable because of its 12 suction cups
- It is tall
- It’s made with durable high-density foam and fabric
- 360 degrees shock and noise absorption
- Comes with free boxing gloves
- It is affordable and easy to set up and install.
Cons:
- Some folks think the suction cups make it less mobile
- Its height is not adjustable
- It can only be used on a smooth surface
- The punching surface is relatively small
CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.
Overall Best Budget Muay Thai punching bag:
XDDIAS Freestanding Punching Bag with Suction Cup Base – Under $160
The Gallant 6 feet freestanding bag is made with soft EPE foam and is filled with microfibre pieces.
Its exterior is strong PU-grade textured leather.
Pros:
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- Easy to set up and use
- Made of high-quality materials
- A narrow base makes it easy to move around
- shock absorbing capability (EPE foam padding)
- It is tall (6 feet)
- It is attractive
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- Some heavy hitters thought it was not sturdy enough
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CLICK HERE to see the current price on their site.
Conclusion
Muay Thai practitioners and other martial artists know that a freestanding bag is a vital accessory in their arsenal. They are a better option relative to a hanging bag. In the article, we reviewed the best freestanding punching bags that are ideal for Muay Thai.
To help you select the best option, we explored 21 models and teased out their key features, pros, and cons. All of them offer similar value and come in a variety of colors and sizes. All are made of high-quality materials.
Naturally, some are more expensive than others, but what’s heartwarming is that there’s something for every budget. Some of the top brands we reviewed include Century, Xsport, Ringside, Pexmore, Everlast, RDX, and Dripex.
It’s no accident that we recommended several models by Century. You noticed, right? Why? The freestanding bag was actually invented by Century. So, they know a thing or two about free-standing punching bags. On the whole, the models we reviewed are good, a few cons notwithstanding.
Image by Jo Tomas from Pixabay
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