It depends on the model. I've seen really solid ones that were harder than most hard bags, and I've seen the standard ones that most of the people are mentioning here. The upside to using it is that it gives you a rough idea of how to hit the correct spots on a real person and gets you used to the idea of hitting a person more than a bag does. The downsides is that some of the models are much to soft, and the base allows for too much movement the punching bob. I would say go for it if you can find it cheap, but it's not really worth buying new because it can get pretty pricey.
No, they aren't worth it. They aren't very well made and the reason they're so expensive is because they look like humans. You should consider punching heavy bags and then move on to hitting harder stuff outside on walls/wood/trees with pillows on them if you're serious about conditioning your hands. A better solution would be to print out pictures of the human body from all perspectives (front,back,side) and tape that to a heavy swinging bag. Always make sure to never ever hit with your pinky and go easy on the bag at first, unless you like have broken hands. You should also spar, because it will get you used to attacking someone who is moving.
I thought it was a piece of crap. The one I used, the base was full of water and when I was at 140 lbs it slid back from body shots. Head strikes weren't any better as it would fall over after a few hits.
It wasn't any good for conditioning striking surfaces (fists, elbows, knees, legs...) as the foam was too soft.
I think it would be fine for a self defense class where you don't want the participants to get hurt. It might be OK for kids to play with.
Unless they have seriously changed the design (the one in your link looked just like the one I used) it is completely worthless for martial arts training.
I have. I think they're good for getting used to hitting someone.
If you can find a used one in decent shape at a good price then go for it. But personally I think they're expensive new and not worth the money. I found that a standard heavy bad was much more useful for my needs.
Your needs may be different so talk to your sensei.
I have used the Bob the green one.
I don't like them for me, but it is okay for children IMO. It give you are better target than just punching a bag. You met to target the head, chin temple, rib, neck, etc.
That is the advantage I see in using one.
Is that some kind of new blow up doll?
Dang, people have got to stop using them.
its like punchbag. but only feels like a real person
What do you think of it? Worth buying?
