Keeping your gut in check – The Everlast Reflex Bag

Everlast Freestanding Reflex Bag – $59.54

Because it’s all about fit, and your clothes fit better when you fit in your clothes.

Eating right is only part of the equation.  Exercise is key.  And if you’re looking for something to add onto your cardio routine that’s not ten more monotonous minutes on the treadmill, give this a shot.

This is the grown ups version of those old inflatable bobo the clown punching bags.  You hit it and Newton’s third law takes over.  There’s a big industrial sized spring at the base that flexes, the bag and metal post go backwards, and then it comes right back at you.  Punch it again, throw in a combination, or practice dipping and dodging the bag as it works off that energy you unloaded on it.
.

It’s free-standing so unlike a heavy bag you don’t need to anchor it to the ceiling.  They claim you can fill it with sand, but the way the base is designed that route would take a funnel and a few hours.  Fill it with water instead.  The few criticisms levied against it on Amazon have yet to turn up for me, and I’ve been using mine for about a month.  Just 10 – 20 minutes after my Tues./Thurs./Sat. morning runs, and it’s completely broken up my cardio rut.

Feeling extra worn out?  Let it hit you.  Seriously.  Not in the face or anything, but give it a good strong cross and let it come back and catch you in the shoulder or chest.  Do that two or three times and you’ll perk up.

Look in your local sporting goods store if you don’t want to wait on shipping.  Adjustable for height, but if you’re super tall it might not go high enough.  You’ll need gloves too.  Even though the UFC logos are a little hokey, these will do nicely and come with a supportive wrist wrap strap.

Got any other ways to break up the standard cardio and strength training?  Leave it in the comments below…