Boxing machine decathlon review: the coach's verdict!

Introduction

The "Boxing Machine 100 inflatable" from Decathlon is much more than just an inflatable punching bag. It's a training solution that's accessible to anyone who wants to learn or perfect the art of boxing, without the constraints of traditional equipment. For me, as a coach and combat sports enthusiast, this tool immediately aroused my curiosity. And why was that? Because it promises simplicity, versatility and value for money. The idea of being able to install it quickly at home, without the need for major materials or building work, is a thought-provoking point. But what is this product really worth in the field? That's what I'm going to explain here, after testing it thoroughly, from assembly to the most demanding sequences.

Our opinion

What strikes you as soon as you open the box is how easy it is to access the product. No need to be a DIY expert: everything is designed so that the user can assemble it in just a few minutes. It's not just a gadget, far from it. For beginners or amateurs who want to train at home, this 'Boxing Machine 100' does the job very well. Once set up and stabilised, it provides a responsive surface for practising punches and kicks. What I really appreciated was the balance between lightness and robustness. Of course, it won't replace a professional hanging bag, but that's not its objective. Its aim is to make boxing accessible, and that's what it excels at. One weak point, however: experienced boxers will find that it lacks resistance to very powerful strikes. That said, for such an affordable budget, it's a compromise that many will accept without hesitation.

How does the Boxing Machine 100 work?

The principle of this machine is simple, and that's its appeal. You start by inflating the upper part, which is the "air chamber". punching bag "This takes less than a minute with a standard pump (not included in the pack). This takes less than a minute with a standard pump (not included in the pack). Once this is done, the base needs to be filled with water or sand. Personally, I opted for sand, as it provides greater stability, especially when you start to string together fast or powerful shots. Once everything is assembled, the result is a self-supporting device that requires no external support. The height of 1.60 metres is perfect: neither too high nor too low, it allows you to work with different angles and types of shot. What really appealed to me was the bounce. Neither too hard nor too soft, it delivers just enough to encourage you to hone your accuracy and speed. It's a good base for cardio-boxing sessions or for perfecting your foot-fist combinations.

Who is the Boxing Machine 100 designed for?

This inflatable punching bag has been designed with a wide audience in mind. head. Whether you're a beginner, an amateur or just someone looking for a fun way to burn calories, you'll find something to suit you with this equipment. The children will also love it, thanks in particular to its cushioning and flexible structure, which reduces the risk of injury. During my tests, I used it with a range of different people: teenagers curious to discover boxing, adults looking to unwind after a hard day's work, and even senior citizens looking for coordination and cardio exercises. The result? An almost unanimous enthusiasm. However, if you're a professional boxer or looking to work on your raw power, this product won't meet your requirements. It's clearly aimed at leisure and beginners. And that's precisely its charm: it makes boxing accessible to everyone.

Technical specifications

The Boxing Machine 100 is made from carefully selected materials that combine lightness and durability. Its base, which can hold up to 28 litres of water or 38 kg of sand, provides sufficient stability for moderate sequences. I tested both options: water is ideal for a quick set-up, but sand is undeniably more effective in preventing the machine from moving during intense strikes. The inflatable part is made of polyethylene, a flexible but tough material, reinforced with layers of polyester to minimise the risk of punctures. One aspect I really appreciated was the ease of maintenance. Even after several sessions, a simple wipe with a damp cloth is enough to restore it to its original shine. It's also a product that's suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, as long as you store it in a cool place to prevent the internal pressure from fluctuating.

How is the Boxing Machine 100 positioned in the market?

Compared with other options on the market, this machine is clearly an economical and practical solution. Top-of-the-range freestanding punching bags, such as those from Century, offer superior stability and durability, but are often three or four times more expensive. For regular, fun use, the Boxing Machine 100 does the job without breaking your budget. Compared with hanging punching bags, it has an undeniable advantage: there's no need to drill through walls or look for a suitable support. What's more, its inflatable design makes it quick and easy to store, which is great for small spaces. Admittedly, it's not perfect: its slight lack of resistance to powerful strikes limits it to amateur use. But it excels in its category, offering an attractive compromise.

Benefits

The first strong point of this machine is its stability. When the base is properly filled, it stays firmly in place, even during intense sessions. I was also impressed by the cushioning. It's enough to protect your joints, while offering good resistance to the return of blows. For beginners, this is crucial, as it means you can practice without the risk of injury. Another notable advantage is its mobility. Unlike a hanging bag or a heavy freestanding punching bag, this one can be moved easily from one room to another, or even outside for an outdoor session. Finally, it's child's play to assemble and dismantle, making it perfect for those who don't have the time or inclination to make life complicated.

Disadvantages

Despite its qualities, the Boxing Machine 100 has a few limitations. The first is its relative lightness. If you're an advanced practitioner and you hit with a lot of power, you may find that the machine moves slightly, even with a well-filled base. This isn't a problem for recreational use, but it can be frustrating for those looking to simulate intensive training. Another drawback is the lack of a pump in the package. This may seem like a minor detail, but it means an extra purchase for those who don't already have one. Finally, although the material is hard-wearing, it remains sensitive to sharp objects or prolonged use outdoors.

Directions for use

To maximise the effectiveness of your "Boxing Machine 100", a few tips are in order. First of all, choose a flat place to install it. It may not seem like much, but an uneven surface could compromise its stability. Next, choose sand rather than water to fill the base: it offers better grip and avoids splashes if you move. If you're a beginner, start with moderate strokes to familiarise yourself with the resistance of the material. Finally, always store the machine away from temperature variations and sharp objects to prolong its life. With these precautions, you'll be able to enjoy a practical, long-lasting tool.

Conclusion

All in all, Decathlon's "Boxing Machine 100 inflatable" is an excellent option for anyone wanting to take up boxing or simply add a fun tool to their sports routine. It stands out for its ease of use, attractive price and versatility. Although it's not suitable for professionals or intensive training enthusiasts, it's a smart choice for recreational use. If you're looking for a simple and effective way to work on your strokes at home, while having fun, then this is the machine for you.

Sources :

• https://decathlon.fr/

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