Are you having a bad day? Punch a punching bag. You will feel better. Moreover, you get to strengthen your arms and shoulders, and also have a great aerobic workout.
With the increasing demand for punching bags, its price is increasing too. However, having a punching bag serves numerous benefits. In such a condition, it is beneficial to make a homemade punching bag with pillows or other household materials.
But you don’t know how to make one? In this article, you will be learning how you can make a punching bag out of pillows.
How to Make a Homemade Punching Bag Out of Pillows?

Items You Will Need
- Pillows
- Pillowcases
- Sand/Sawdust
- Duct tape
- Rope
- Duffel bag
- Hanging hook or stand
1. Choose a Shell
You can choose a duffel bag. Check it thoroughly. See if all the straps are removed. Examine all the stitching and seam areas and reinforce the weak areas if you find any.
While choosing one, make sure that there aren’t any hard materials that can’t be removed. It is better to use the bag made out of heavy-duty nylon or canvas.

2. Fill the Bag
Now, it’s time to start filling the punching bag. You can fill it with pillows or initially fill the pillowcases with sand.
Make sure that you position them densely and evenly in the duffel bag using duct tape. To ensure that place the stuffing elements in layers. Compress it then put the next layer. Then close the cases securely.

3. Tie a Rope
Once you are done stuffing, close the duffel bag. Then, tie a rope around it. Make sure to wrap the rope a few times and tighten it with a loop. Leave a good amount of rope to hang the punching bag.

4. Cover the Bag With Duct Tape
Wrap the duct tape around the punching bag horizontally from top to bottom. Try to cover such a way that none of the parts of the bag are seen. This procedure will give your bag some stability and even shape.
You should wear hand gloves for the safety of your hand.

5. Hang The Bag
Now that you are done with making the bag, it’s time to hang the bag!
Use the remaining part of the rope to hang it to the hanging hook or attach it to a stand. You can also use a homemade punching bag holder.

Can You Use a Pillow as a Punching Bag?
You can use a pillow as a punching bag. There are some punching pillows in the market. However, you can make them at home.
If your pillow isn’t stuffed enough, then stuff it with more pillow fillings. Then hang it against the wall. However, you won’t get the same resistance as a heavy bag. But whatever the case is, you can punch it.

What Is the Best Thing to Fill a Punching Bag With?
If you want a heavy bag, then it is best to fill it with smaller and finer materials like sand or sawdust. Stuff thinner clothes or fabrics in the middle so that the weight doesn’t become overbearing for its casing.
On the other hand, if you want a lightweight bag, fill it with towels, old clothes, or fabric strips.
What Should a Beginner Punching Bag Fill?
If you are a beginner, then start with a lightweight and soft punching bag. For fillings, you can use an old cloth or other scrap fabric, foam, water, or gel ball. The bag moves more, so you can improve your agility with it. It is better for your joints.
FAQs
Q: What are the right size and weight of a punching bag?
Ans: The size and weight of a punching bag depend on the type of training you will be having. It also depends on whether you want a heavy bag or a lightweight bag.
Generally, a heavy punching bag should be half of your weight. A lightweight punching bag weighs from 25 to 40 pounds. The 40 lbs. ones are ideal for youths or light hitters.
On the other hand, a 70 lbs bag is ideal for teenagers. Well, 80 lb. and up is for adults. However, heavier models are those weighing 100 and even 200 lbs.
Q: Is punching a heavy punching bag a good workout?
Ans: A heavy bag workout is recommended if you want to master boxing techniques. It gives an effective full-body workout, improves your strength. You get to build your endurance, enhance stability, balance, and coordination.
However, if you are a beginner, it’s better to start with a lightweight bag workout.
Q: Should I buy a filled or unfilled punching bag?
Ans: When you go to the market, you will see both types of punching bags—filled and unfilled. If you don’t want the trouble to fill the bag yourself, you should buy a filled one.
However, many people like to fill it themselves. This way, they can control the firmness and other features also. If you are buying a filled one, then check if it has an option to amend the filling.
Conclusion
There are many other substitute of a punching bag. But, it would be best if you had a punching bag as it comes with many advantages. If you have money issues, then you can always make one at your home.
While making a punching bag, take necessary safety steps. Try to avoid working with a bare hand. Make a bag that fulfills your requirements.
Don’t just go for the heavy one. Know the depth of your training and consider the level of your efficiency.
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