Boxing Pads: What you need to know

by Joost Nusselder | Updated on:  March 7 2023

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Do you ever see people hitting soft pillows someone else is holding? Those are bumpers, but what exactly do you need them for?

Punch pads are cushions that the trainer holds and uses to punch the boxer. They protect the trainer as the boxer tries to land punches on a moving surface and are an indispensable part of boxing training.

In this article I will tell you all about bumpers and how they are used.

What are boxing pads

Punch pads: an indispensable part of boxing training

What are fenders?

Punch pads are soft pads held by a trainer to cushion a boxer's punches. They are used to train the boxer to hit a moving surface and to protect the trainer from hard punches. Punch pads are an essential part of boxing training and are also used in other martial arts such as MMA.

How are fenders used?

Punches are held by a trainer who shows the boxer where to punch. The boxer can punch the pad with or without boxing gloves, depending on the intensity of the training. Some pads have loops on the back so the trainer can put them on his or her arm for a firmer grip.

Punch pads can also be used to practice kicking. There are for this special kick pads (check out the best kickboxing and boxing pads here) available that have a firm foam filling and are made of bisonyl. These are designed to absorb hard kicks and protect the trainer.

Can I train with punch pads at home?

Yes, it is possible to train at home with punch pads. Special pads are available that are smaller in size and less heavy than those used in gyms. These are ideal for home use and can be used to practice punches without a trainer present.

Discover the different types of boxing pads

Handpads

Hand pads are the most commonly used punch pads in boxing training. They serve to protect the trainer's hands while catching the boxer's punches. Hand pads are worn during training and the trainer absorbs the punches while constantly changing position. This trains the boxer's reaction and power. Hand pads have a handle where the trainer holds them and are therefore always in the desired position.

wall pad

Wall pads are cushions that are mounted on a wall. They are a combination of a punching bag and a wall bag and are static. Wall pads are an easy way to train uppercuts and angles. They are a formidable opponent and the round shape and height can be adapted to the type of boxing training.

Speed ​​pads

Speed ​​pads are small, soft pads that are worn on the trainer's hands. They are designed to teach the boxer to react quickly and get better at hitting moving targets. Speed ​​pads are effective for training the boxer's shoulders and arms and can also be used for combination training.

Focus mitts

Focus mitts are similar to hand pads, but are larger and softer. They are designed to provide the boxer with a pleasant and effective way to train. Focus mitts are often used to teach the boxer to improve his/her technique and increase his/her reaction speed. They are also useful for training combinations and improving the boxer's soured arms.

Thai pads

Thai pads are large, soft pads worn on the trainer's forearms. They are designed to train the boxer to hit moving targets and improve his/her kicking technique. Thai pads are also useful for training combinations and improving the boxer's sore arms.

Why do we train with punch cushions, kick cushions and pads?

More realistic boxing training with punches

Punch pads, kick pads and pads are essential tools during boxing training. The name says it all: fender cushions are designed to absorb and dampen impacts, while kick cushions are specially developed to absorb kicks. Pads are soft, moving surfaces used to practice combinations of punches and kicks. Using these tools makes boxing training more realistic and allows boxers to improve their techniques.

Improving footwork and position

Punch pads, kick pads and pads are not only for practicing punches and kicks, but also to improve the boxer's footwork and position. By moving himself and anticipating the partner's movements, the boxer can improve his footwork and position. This is especially important during kickboxing, where turning away after a kick or feint is of great importance.

Protect weak spots and prevent acidification

The use of bumpers, kick pads and pads can also help protect weak spots and prevent acidification. By absorbing the impact of punches and kicks, the boxer's wrists and knees are significantly less stressed. In addition, boxers can prevent acidification of the muscles by changing combinations and using different types of pillows.

Combining techniques and improving responsiveness

Punches, kick pads and pads can also be used to practice combinations of punches and kicks. By changing pillows and guiding the partner, the boxer's responsiveness can be improved. In addition, by combining techniques, boxers can improve their skills and identify their weak spots.

In short, punch cushions, kick cushions and pads are indispensable tools during boxing training. They help boxers improve their techniques, improve their footwork and position, protect weak spots and prevent acidification. By combining techniques and improving responsiveness, boxers can take their skills to the next level.

What do you pay attention to when buying fenders?

Important points to include in your search

If you are looking for fenders, there are a number of important points that you should pay attention to. We have listed these points for you below:

  • Pad hardness
  • Pad material
  • Number of pads you want to buy
  • Kind of pad you want to buy
  • Brand of the fender
  • Price of the fender

Pad hardness

The hardness of the pad is an important point to pay attention to when buying pads. If the punch pad is too hard, it can cause injury to the person throwing the punches. If the punch pad is too soft, the person throwing the punches will not get enough resistance and the workout may be less effective. It is therefore important to look at the hardness of the pad and determine what suits your training best.

Number of pads you want to buy

The number of pads you want to buy is also important to consider. If you train alone, you may only need one pad. If you train in a group, you will probably need more. It is important to determine how many pads you need before you go shopping.

If you want to buy fenders, it is important to pay attention to a number of things. For example, it is important to look at the place where you want to use the bumpers. For example, do you want to use them at home or in the gym? In addition, it is important to look at the type of fender you want to buy. Do you want a heavier pad to practice harder punches or a lighter pad to train more easily? It is also important to look at the handles of the pad. Good handles make training with punching pads a lot easier.

Are fenders suitable for beginners?

Yes, fenders are suitable for beginners. It is a good way to learn and practice basic boxing techniques. Moreover, with punch pads you can train at your own pace and you can make the punches and kicks as hard or soft as you want.

Conclusion

If you really want to get good at boxing, it is important to use punching pads and to train with them at home as well.

I hope you now have a better idea of ​​what punches are and how you can use them to get better at boxing.

Joost Nusselder, the founder of referees.eu is a content marketer, father and loves to write about all kinds of sports, and has also played a lot of sports himself for most of his life. Now since 2016, he and his team have been creating helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with their sports activities.