What is it and how to train with the Speedball

The speed ball is an indispensable tool for improving boxing technique, because it allows you to optimize speed, coordination, reflexes and the rhythm and precision with which the blows are carried.

The speed ball is a type of tool that does not replace the others, for example the punching bag, with which the power of the blows is mainly trained, rather it joins them, going to complete the training.

It may seem like an easy tool to use, but it requires a lot of practice to be useful and effective. Furthermore, without a basic knowledge of boxing techniques, there is a risk of injuries to the shoulders and arm joints. This is why we recommend its use to those who already know the rudiments of the noble art.

How speed ball works

The operation of the speed ball is very simple: its mechanism is based on the rebound of the ball between the boxer's hands and the platform from which it is hung. The more agile the boxer will be to hit the pear with precision and regularity, the more effective the exercise will be.

How a speed ball is made

The speed ball is made up of two parts: an internal air chamber, which you will need to inflate before use, and an external covering, in leather or imitation leather, which has the function of protecting the air chamber. There are some must-have accessories to buy with the pear, but we will see them later.

How the boxing pear inflates

Before using the speed ball you will need to inflate the air chamber inside with the help of a pump or compressor. At the base of the pear you will find a valve through which to inject the air.

You may be wondering how swollen the speed ball needs to be. Imagine the pear as a balloon: it is important to dose the right amount of air. If the air chamber is too swollen it could explode, while if it is not enough, the pear will not respond adequately to your blows and will not bounce off the platform.

Accessories (indispensable) of the speed ball

When buying a fast boxing pear you have to take into account two accessories without which the pear will not work properly.

The first accessory is the speed ball platform. It is a structure composed of a base, generally in polished and painted wood, and by metal brackets that support it. The platform allows the pear to bounce, returning a fluid and dynamic movement.

The second essential accessory is the joint attachment, a hook that allows the pear to rotate 360 ​​degrees.

How to assemble the ball

First of all it is essential to fix the platform to the wall or ceiling. Make sure you purchase proper hooks and dowels for the weight of the platform (these are generally provided when you buy the platform), considering the movement of the pear. The articulated joint is screwed to the platform, to which the already inflated speed ball is then attached.

Do I need to protect my hands during use?

As we have seen, the boxing pear is not used to train the power of the blows, rather their speed and accuracy. Therefore, the use of gloves would not only be useless, but even counterproductive, because on the one hand they would take up space during the exercise, on the other hand they would limit the perception of the pear when in contact with the hands.

We therefore recommend the use of a simple bandage or under gloves, or at most 4 Oz gloves (mma gloves to be clear).

How to use the speed ball

An article would not be sufficient to explain the correct use of this tool. We invite you to contact a qualified instructor, or to search among the numerous video tutorials available on the net. Remember that it is a tool that requires a lot of practice and a little patience before being able to give optimal results.