The Best Speed Bag Platform

Speed bags are one of the most recognizable gear for boxing, MMA, and a manner of other combat sports. And the workout of any good fighter isn’t complete without one.

However, most speed bags don’t come with a platform. There are a lot of options out there, and some are much better than others. So, how can you tell what the good ones are?

Well, have no fear! Read on, and find out what is the best speed bag platform for you!

Table of Contents

Everlast Speed Bag Platform (EA)
XMark Adjustable Speed Bag Platform XM-2811
Valor Fitness Boxing Speed Bag Platform with Wheel Crank
Everlast 6-Piece Speed Bag Set
MaxxMMA Heavy Duty Adjustable Speed Bag Platform Kit
1. What You Need to Look For
2. Conclusion

Everlast Speed Bag Platform (EA)

Everlast was founded over a hundred years ago, and they’ve been making boxing equipment since 1917. Since then, they’ve gone on to become one of the most recognizable boxing brands in the world.

Their EA Speed Bag Platform has a 24’’ diameter, and can be used with both large and small speed bags. Its height is adjustable by up to 8’’, which really helps when it comes to installing it. 

Its platform is made of a particle board with a wood laminate, and can provide a good rebound.

It’s oriented toward users on a tighter budget, and as such there are some compromises. For one, the platform itself is relatively thin.

This means that it doesn’t absorb as much vibrations, compared to other models, and it can generate quite a lot of noise. 

This is why we suggest putting some sandbags on top of it. Not only can they improve the rebound, but they can also greatly reduce the noise and vibrations generated by an intense workout.

Another thing you should keep in mind is that you’ll need about some space above where you want to mount it – some users even say as much as 2 feet (about 60 cm). 

If you don’t have that kind of space, we suggest you flip over the support bars of the circle section, and effectively mount that part upside down.

Overall, the Everlast Speed Bag Platform is a good speed bag platform, and if you’re looking for something more affordable, it’s a great value for money.

Pros:

• Good rebound. Bags can reach higher speeds
• Very solid, once mounted properly.
• Good product if you’re on a budget

Cons:

• The platform is on the light side, so it can make quite a lot of noise
• Instructions for installation aren’t very good

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XMark Adjustable Speed Bag Platform XM-2811

XMark position themselves as a maker of high-quality home fitness equipment. Their XM-2811 Adjustable Speed Bag Platform tries to do just that, but does it succeed?

For starters, the frame is made of 11-gauge steel, while the drum uses thick 1.5 ‘’ inch (3.8 cm) oak hardwood. What this means is that the platform absorbs a lot of vibrations, and can provide a good speed and rebound.

The only component that some users found lacking was the swivel included with the platform. Some people said it left a lot to be desired. Another issue they found with it was the non-standard bolt pattern, which makes changing the swivel a bit harder than it needs to be.

Another criticism people have is about the instructions for installation, which many users found not detailed enough.

All these flaws notwithstanding, the XM-2811 is a good platform for home use. Its price is more in the mid-range, but after all, you get what you pay for. And in this case, we believe that it’s well worth it for the quality you’re getting.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty frame. Good for intensive use
• Thick drum. Very stable, absorbs noise
• Absorbs vibrations well
• Can get very good rebounds

Cons:

• The included swivel rattles isn’t the best
• Swivel uses non-standard bolt pattern. Needs drilling to change
• Installation instructions aren’t detailed enough

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Valor Fitness Boxing Speed Bag Platform with Wheel Crank

This speed bag platform by Valor Fitness has a heavy-duty frame that can withstand a high amount of vibrations. It also comes equipped with a speed bag.

It also has a crank you can use to adjust the platform’s height. So, if you’re one of those people who like training alongside friends and family, then this platform could be a good choice, as adjustment is quite easy.

Many users had trouble mounting it, due to the unclear installation instructions.

Although it’s a good overall platform, I don’t think it’s as good as the XMark XM-2811. Valor’s product does the job well enough.

Pros:

• Solid, high-quality frame. Can last you a long time
• Very good at absorbing vibrations
• Height is very easy to adjust

Cons:

• Unclear installation instructions
• The speed bag it comes with is of relatively low quality

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Everlast 6-Piece Speed Bag Set

This 6-piece set by Everlast includes an adjustable platform, speed bag, swivel, boxing gloves, hand wraps, and a nylon jump rope.

The platform itself is 24’’ (or 61 cm) wide, and is made of ¾ inch-thick wood (about 2 cm). For the low asking price, it does a pretty good job. It’s also relatively easy to set up.

Although it’s adjustable, changing the height isn’t as easy as some of the other platforms covered here, so if you plan on having a lot of people use it often, then be prepared for some amount of annoyance, as you change it each time it needs to be used by another fighter.

The bag is made of synthetic leather, so if you’re the type of person who likes to go to town during your speed bag training, you should consider swapping it out for something more durable, as several users said the bag burst after intense use.

That being said, as long as you don’t over-inflate it, and use it properly, it should hold up for quite a while.

Many people report the gloves not being of lower quality, but if you’re just looking for a bit of fun, then that shouldn’t be a huge issue.

In general, this is a good starter set for people new to boxing, or ones who just want to enhance their cardio workouts. It comes at a very affordable price, and comes with everything a beginner might need.

If you’re considering buying this set, then bear in mind that it doesn’t come with all the screws you’ll need for installation. So, be prepared for a trip to your local hardware store.

Pros:

• The frame is very solid for the price
• The set includes everything you need.
• Quick to set up
• Great option for beginners

Cons:

• The bag is made of synthetic leather. Very likely won’t last as long as a leather bag
• Swivel and gloves aren’t the best
• Difficult to adjust height 
• Doesn’t include all the screws needed for set up

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MaxxMMA Heavy Duty Adjustable Speed Bag Platform Kit

This platform by MaxxMMA is 24’’ (61cm) in diameter, and has a wooden drum that’s 1.5’’ (3.8cm) thick. It also comes with a speed bag.

The platform itself is very well made, and provides a very good rebound. This can help you reach a very high speed for your workout.

The speed bag it comes with is made of synthetic leather. While it isn’t the best, it does an adequate job, as long as you don’t over-inflate it or hit it too hard.

One thing you should also keep in mind is that while it does come with a good swivel, it uses a non-standard bolt pattern. So, if you aren’t happy with it, and want to change it, you’ll need to do some drilling. 

Even taking that into account, this is an overall good option, especially for more advanced fighters who like having high-intensity workout sessions.

Pros:

• Sturdy platform. Overall good quality
• Thick drum. Good rebound and speed
• Comes with speed bag
• Easy to install

Cons:

• Bag is made of synthetic leather.
• Swivel uses non-standard bolt pattern. Swivel change is a hassle
• Doesn’t come with all the screws needed for set up

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1. What You Need to Look For

1.1. Size

The first thing to look at is the size of the platform. It needs to be at least as big as the speed bag you’ll be using. It’s OK if the platform is larger – it means you can use it with bigger bags, as well. 

But if your speed bag is longer than your platform, you risk the bag hitting the platform’s edge. This could lead to serious damage to your speed bag.

1.2. Frame

The frame is what holds up the parts that make up the platform. Frames are either free-standing or attached to the wall. The type you go for will, of course, depend on your particular set up, and what is the most convenient. 

What you generally want to look for is a frame made of either iron or steel, so it can withstand all the pressure of a training session.

1.3. Mounting Capabilities/Options

The mounting should be the strongest part of the platform. It bears the brunt of the force during a workout. Ideally, it needs to be made from sturdy, high quality steel, so that it can keep the platform in place without too much shaking or vibrations.

1.4. Adjustability

The best speed bags have a degree of adjustability. Everybody is different, and if your bag is going to be used by more than one person, then you need a platform that can be adjusted.

Some of the better speed bag platforms can be adjusted to such a degree, that they can be used both by adults and children.

Fixed Platforms

Fixed platforms come with a set height that can’t be adjusted. If you plan on buying one, make sure you can install it in a place where you’ll be comfortable using it.

Adjustable Platforms

Adjustable platforms can offer you a lot more flexibility, because they have a range of heights they can be adjusted to. They’re ideal if you plan on letting other people use your speed bag.

1.5. Weight

In addition to the weight of the platform itself, you also need to consider how much weight your speed bag platform can carry. 

This is especially important if you’re a beginner. If you’re just starting out, you’ll need a bigger speed bag, because it’ll be slower and easier to hit. Naturally, bigger bags are also heavier, so you need to make sure the platform you buy will be able carry that weight. But don’t fret – manufacturers are always very clear when it comes to these things. Just make sure you read the specs before you buy!

1.6. Durability

Speed bag platforms are made with endurance in mind. However, there are many platforms made using shoddy materials, and they quickly fall apart. Platforms often have specifications about how durable they are, but it’s still a good idea to read some reviews, and see what people say about a given platform’s durability. 

This is something we’ve paid very close attention to while compiling this list. 

1.7. Material/Drum Material

A platform’s material can give you an idea about how durable it’s going to be. Usually, speed bag platforms use steel or some other metal for the frame, and either steel or wood for the rest of its components.

In essence, the more high quality the materials, the more durable the platform will be. This is especially important if you have a heavier bag or if you want to have more intense workouts.

1.8. Thickness

Thickness determines how good a speed bag platform is at absorbing vibrations, and how good of a rebound they can give you. Platforms differ in their thickness, but generally 1 to 2 inches (3-5 cm) is enough to do the job.

1.9. Swivel Holes

Most high-end speed bag platforms come with pre-drilled holes where you can attach your swivel. While this isn’t a vitally important component, it’s a nice quality-of-life feature. It also saves you the trouble of trying to figure out if you can mount the swivel of your speed bag.

1.10. Price Point

At the end of the day, the main determining factor is your budget. Most of the time, like with everything else, the more money you pay, the better the product. So if the price is looking a little steep, then there’s probably a good reason for that.

When it comes to something important, like working out, it’s not a good idea to be stingy with equipment. Better quality speed bags from a reputable company are going to last you a long time. If you weigh what you’re going to pay against how long you’re going to use it for, then it’s well worth it.

Going for cheaper speed bags will probably make you spend more money in the long run anyway. You’re going to have to keep replacing them and of course that’s going to add up.

2. Conclusion

No matter your level of skill, a speed bag is the perfect addition to any workout regimen. However, a speed bag is only as good as the platform it’s mounted on! 

Without a good platform, not only will you not be able to use your bag, but its speed will suffer for it, and so will your workout.

If you’re a beginner, or just have a tighter budget, we think the best option is the Everlast 6-Piece Bag set. It gives you all the needed equipment at a very affordable price. 

The quality may not be premium, but it’ll get the job done, until you’re ready to graduate to something more heavy-duty.

For more experienced fighters, we think the best choice is the XMark XM-2811 – its thick drum and solid frame provide excellent rebound, and are strong enough to withstand a high-intensity workout.

If you’re still looking for a good speed bag to mount on your platform, check out my speed bag review.

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