A common rule of thumb is a heavy bag around half your body weight, so it moves a little without swinging wildly. Long bags (about 5 to 6 feet) suit kickboxing and Muay Thai, while shorter bags suit boxing. Hanging bags need a solid ceiling joist, beam or stand; freestanding bags need floor space and a weighted base. Filled bags are ready to use; unfilled bags ship lighter.
The right bag fits your discipline, your body weight and your space.
Weight
| Your weight | Common bag weight |
|---|---|
| Any | About half your body weight |
Length
| Length | Best for |
|---|---|
| About 4 ft | Boxing |
| About 5 to 6 ft | Kickboxing, Muay Thai |
Mounting
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Ceiling mount | Needs a structural joist or beam |
| Bag stand | No drilling, takes floor space |
| Freestanding | Fill the base with water or sand |
Related: boxing glove size chart.
Common questions
What weight heavy bag should I get?
Many people start with a bag about half their body weight. Heavier bags move less; lighter bags swing more.
Can I hang a heavy bag from a ceiling?
Only from a structural joist or beam with a mount rated for the load and movement, or use a heavy bag stand.
Is a freestanding bag as good as a hanging bag?
Freestanding bags are easy to set up and move but can tip or slide on hard strikes. Hanging bags feel more solid.