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Best Workout Sandbags
More people have started incorporating workout sandbags in their routines, and the benefits are astounding. You will improve your body’s metabolic conditioning, increase lean muscle mass, build upper and lower body strength activate stabilizer muscles, and so much more.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Weight
Only purchase what you can handle.
Sandbags have different weight capacities. Each brand sells its own individually chosen capacities. One may offer their smallest sandbag at a 6lb capacity while another brand may provide theirs at a 25lb capacity. The same applies to large sandbags; brands don’t standardize their sizes. It is important to have this knowledge because you might have a brand you prefer, however, they may lack the sandbag you need.
For instance, you may want to purchase a 25lb sandbag and find that they only have 100lb options available. Do not insist on buying from such a brand just because they have good ratings. Move on and find a reasonable brand that will meet your needs. Also, the worst thing you could do would be to purchase a specific weight just because someone you know is using the same.
We can’t all handle lifting the same weights, that is why you will set yourself up for injury if you forcefully take on more than you can handle. If it is your first time using a sandbag, you can just start small and gradually work your way up. There is no harm in starting with lightweight alternatives. On the contrary, you will have a better idea of what your limit is and still gain from the workouts using such sandbags.
Durability
A long lasting option is ideal.
Sandbags are subjected to so much, during workouts and training sessions. That’s why it is logical to get one that can effectively withstand force. If you get a low-quality option, the chances are that it's going to get torn or ripped apart after a short while. Quality is everything when it comes to these workout tools. Before you make a purchase take time and do your research on the type of materials used. By doing so, you will get to know whether they are substandard or not. Some bags have undergone military grade construction, with quality stitching, using tear proof materials. Other even have damp proof fabric, durable straps, in addition to tough zippers. All in all, you should always keep in mind that only a durable sandbag can let you make the most out of your training.
Versatility
It is worth buying if you can train more.
When you choose a versatile sandbag, you give yourself more variety in terms of strength training options. Taking on various training exercises will not be an issue. Such kinds of sandbags often have several filler bags, to make their weight adjustable. They also come with handles to give you multiple grip options during your functional strength training. You will be able to approach your routines from different angles and adjust for flexibility as needed. You stand to gain more by purchasing such sandbags, regardless of your skill level.
Features
Learn what makes it valuable.
Some sandbag features are essential to ensure that your functional strength training goes accordingly. Not all sandbags come with filler bags, but they play an important part in the process. With filler bags, you adjust your bag’s weight as mentioned earlier. Switching up from one work out to another will also be easy since all you have to do is add or remove them. Make sure your bag also has a handle or two, especially if you are a beginner. Most importantly, ensure the sandbag has a leak-proof design so that you don’t have to deal with sand particles every now and then. Other important features include warranty and handle protection.
Top 10 Best Workout Sandbags
1. Brute Force Sandbags
Brute Force Sandbags is one of the original workout sandbag manufacturers. The company is reliable and supplies to; Fire Departments, Department of Homeland Security, Division I Athletic Programs, Law Enforcement, and The FBI, to mention a few. What this proves is that their sandbags have what it takes to help you meet your fitness goals. The fact that they supply some of the top organizations in the U.S should give you a sense of the kind of quality they offer.
Read moreWeight
You can adjust the weight of this sandbag from 25 to 75 pounds. The company advises that users avoid filling it to its maximum capacity and use it 60 pounds instead. Reason being, when it’s filled out too much, the sand won’t have much shifting load. When filled to the recommended weight, there’s a better balance between the maximum shift and the maximum weight. The result is an efficient sandbag that can help you carry out your training as needed.
Durability
The company uses 1000D Military-Spec Cordura, YKK Zippers, Military Grade Velcro, and 5 Panel Seatbelt Webbing, to create this sandbag. That is what makes them able to withstand brute force during training sessions. The entire bag is handmade and handcrafted to make it as durable as it needs to be. High-quality materials were used to make the sandbag, unlike those of brands that like to cut corners to save on cost. You won’t regret this investment.
Versatility
The bag is strong enough to handle any kind of use when training. You can drag it, slam it, beat it, and even toss it, among other activities during your functional training. Most people use it for cross fit workouts, especially since it also comes with eight grip handles.
Features
Your sandbag purchase will come with a Brute Force Shield Warranty. The purchase will also include; End Cap Grips, Suitcase Grips, Barbell Grips, and the previously mentioned grip handles. Buyers also get a 30 and 50lb double Velcro filler bags in the kit.
The sandbag also has eight handles in total; a pair of barbell grips, suitcase grips, neutral grips, and end grips. They are all Cordura wrapped for longevity
Overall
The company has varieties in terms of sandbag weight and colors. The other sandbag weights they offer are; 50 to 125lbs, 50 to 200lbs, 100 to 200lbs, 100 to 400lbs, 25lbs, 30lbs, and 50lbs. So, if the brand meets your standards, you can easily get an additional sandbag or two.
2. Rep Fitness
Rep caters to both experienced and new sandbag trainers. They offer training solutions to people who want to take their training to the next level. Rep is not just a random fitness company; they are reputable for both their excellent gear and the fact that they also use their products. Because of this, they know both the strengths and weaknesses of their products. That is why they are always improving their gear and offering the best.
Read moreWeight
The sandbag can hold about 50 to 125lbs. You can adjust it as you please, however, you should note that it has an ideal weight range. You should use it at a range of 70 to 110lbs, to get the most out of your workouts. Rep also offers sandbags with; 5 to 25lbs, 25 to 75lbs, and 125 to 200lbs capacities.
Durability
To make them durable, Rep uses 1000D Cordura for the sandbags and filler bags as well. The nylon used in the process is heavy-duty. They cross-stitch it and triple stitch it to ensure that the bag doesn’t unravel any time soon. The zippers will also stay in place since they are heavy-duty YKK zippers. You might fail to notice them at first since the sandbag has a hideaway flap.
Versatility
This is exactly the kind of sandbag you need if you feel as if you want to challenge yourself. The sandbag will come in handy for exercises such as; lunges, presses, squats, carries, and deadlifts, among others. You will find it more effective compared to free weight workouts.
Features
The bags will not leak, compared to some of the low-quality options in the market. Their design is double Velcro, to help avoid such incidents. You will have a ton of grip options when using this sandbag. It has six handles that will eliminate the possibility of awkward contact points. Buyers also get 3 filler bags with their purchase.
Overall
The sandbag’s performance has helped skyrocket its popularity. It is easy to use; however, the company offers buyers some advice for better product experience. The maximum you should fill the inner bags is ¾ of their capacity. They are at a high risk of bursting if they get filled to the brim.
3. Radien Sports
Most people who have owned Raiden Sport’s sandbags can attest to the fact that they have one of the most unique designs in the market. They feature innovative designs, allowing their sandbags to cater to different people’s needs. This particular option has straps, but will also come in handy to people who are looking for a strapless design. Reason being, the straps are easily foldable for different sets of exercises.
Read moreWeight
The sandbag can handle anywhere from 50 to 165lbs of sand. You can get it in two other capacities of 100 to 300lbs and 75 to 225lbs. Make sure you only fill it up to the weight you can comfortably handle.
Durability
It is highly likely that will be your go-to sandbag because of its ability to withstand wear. The chances are that it will outlast most of your other sandbags. The 1000D nylon used to make it is tougher than most materials.
Versatility
Part of why the sandbag is versatile is because it has several crisscrossed nylon bands. As a result, you will have 36 different ways that you can grip it. It’s rare to get sandbags with such gripping options. You can use it for squats, keg lifts, kettlebell swings, overhead presses and so much more.
Features
If this is your first sandbag, you probably won’t notice its uniqueness right away. However, for people who have used a variety of sandbags, the company’s design makes a huge difference in their workouts. They don’t use any cords, zippers, or strings, like other brands.
Raiden sports works just like a kayaker’s dry bag. No fillers are required for the process. All you will need to do is roll down the sandbag top till it’s snug. Afterward, use the strong metal buckle to secure it. With such a design, you can rest assured that you won’t be dealing with leakages anytime soon.
Overall
No one likes getting calluses, but at times, they come about as a result of our workouts. To prevent that from happening to your hands, Radien Sports incorporated three very soft, protective handle covers.
4. Cerus Fitness
Made in the USA, Cerus fitness sandbags took the market by storm. Their quality is exceptional, and they are quickly gaining popularity. The brand has done well for itself despite competing with players who are more established. They claim their sandbag will ensure that buyers get a handle on functional training. Accomplishing some positions and movements will be easier than ever, compared to if you were using weights.
Read moreWeight
It has a 35 to 75pound capacity. The company does not have a lot of variety in terms of sandbag capacities, but you will find this particular option as beneficial as any other would be.
Durability
They used military-grade material to make the sandbags. Even the Velcro has military strength. The sandbag also has high test stitching and a four-panel seatbelt webbing. The zipper will also last you for a while since it is heavy duty. All the bags have double reinforcement and sealed webbing. The company also carries out three quality checks before releasing the sandbags into the market.
Versatility
The number of drills and lifts you could do with the sandbag are countless. You can also use it for Obstacle course race training, Martial arts and combat training, strength and endurance training, and cross fit training, among other workouts.
Features
It has four sets of handles; horizontal, barbell, neutral, and end caps. Their design is such that they will offer you an easy grip while being gentle on your hands. You will also get three filler bags made of double Velcro. All of them also have handles and have a 25-pound capacity.
Overall
You can carry out tough training, as long as you are cautious around asphalt and concrete. The company advises against dragging or slamming the bag on such surfaces.
5. Garage Fit
Garage fit offers more sandbag variety than any other brand in this guide. They are basically a one-stop shop since they have products for beginners and pros. You can also get them in seven different colors ranging from; blue, black, green, camouflage, tan, red, and military green. Garage fit also offers sandbags with handles and those without.
Read moreWeight
This particular can hold 25lbs to 75lbs of sand. As mentioned earlier, the company has other sandbags that you can choose from. The different bag capacities the brand offers are; 0 to 30lbs, 5 to 25lbs, 5 to 30lbs, 25 to 75lbs, 50 to 125lbs, 125 to 200lbs, and 80 to 120lbs.
Durability
Strong Velcro is used when double sealing the filler bags inner liners. As a result, they have effective containment of the sand, so that there’s no leaking. The zipper is durable, and the nylon material is water resistant. They also have nylon stitching reinforcement that makes them stronger. Users push and press the sandbag all the time, and it still remains intact.
Versatility
More gripping options translate to more ways of exercising. This bag has about seven handles around it. You will be able to take on plenty of workouts. In fact, it’s not an exaggeration to say that hundreds of effective exercises can be performed with the provided handles.
Features
Some users remove the filler bags to lessen the resistance level when training. If you feel, you’ve hit a plateau, and you want to challenge yourself even further, then you could opt to remove them as well.
Overall
Garage Fit considered maintenance when making the bags. They used convenient colors to camouflage dirt, making them re-usable for some time before the need for cleaning arises.
6. Fullbore Fitness
Fullbore prides itself in the quality of their fitness sandbags. The brand aims to provide users with affordable high-grade alternatives. Of course, the price may still be high for some; however, most of their customers claim that the sandbags are every bit as good as they are described to be.
Read moreWeight
The training bag can handle 20 to 60 pounds of sand weight. It comes with three filler bags, each with a 20lbs capacity.
Durability
The bag’s high-grade nature is from the 1680D oxford material used to make it. The bag’s outer shell will not tear, rip and is not prone to abrasion. It also has reinforced webbing, and the zipper is equally as sturdy.
Versatility
You can use the bag when cross training, at fitness camp, and for various workouts in your home gym. The adjustable weights are excellent for entry-level use as well. So beginners can incorporate them into their workouts after some time.
Features
Each side of the workout bag has a handle. They are for helping users lift when in proper form. The handles are also comfortable and heavy duty. You will no longer have issues with contact points.
Overall
The zipper will not get scratched since it's hidden away. Its constitution ensures that it will stay presentable for longer.
7. Pseudois
The sandbag is a good fit for people who want to develop power and explosiveness. There is no doubt that you are going to build overall body strength by training with it. Adding it to your workout equipment will definitely help you attain your training goals.
Read moreWeight
You’ll be able to adjust it between 10 to 60lbs. Users find it extremely useful since it comes in handy even at different fitness levels. Feel free to adjust the routine by adding or taking out the filler bags.
Durability
The sandbag consists of Oxford material. Compared to Nylon, it lasts longer and is damp resistant. It also has Velcro to make sure that it doesn’t burst easily.
Versatility
This cross fit sandbag is designed to take on multiple workout routines. It has several gripping options, which will be useful when finding your force, stability, and power in your movements.
Features
The bag has liners that are double sealed, to prevent leakage. They have a secure Velcro fitting that helps re-enforce the liners. It also has four handles in total.
Overall
Pseudois has done okay for itself when it comes to their military bags. You can also get one in black, green and blue.
8. Bulgarian Bag
The Bulgarian Bag is an excellent fit for people who prefer high-end options. The sandbag is made of genuine leather of the highest quality. It is handmade and has an appealing design. However, it has a lot more to offer than just its looks and leather material. You will also get the full body work out you desire among other benefits.
Read moreWeight
The company offers several sandbag weight capacities. Buyers can choose from 6lbs, 11lbs, 13lbs, 33lbs, 37lbs, 42lbs, 44lbs, 50lbs, 58lbs, 66lbs, 75lbs, and 84lbs bags.
Durability
Unlike other brands, the company uses quality leather to ensure the sandbag’s durability. It is undoubtedly going to last longer than Nylon and Oxford materials.
Versatility
You can use it for wrestling, as a weight bag, training bag, sandbag, in MMA, for functional training, judo, grappling, and cross fit among other fitness activities.
Features
The bag’s high demand has given rise to knock offs. Buyers should make sure that they inspect their purchase on delivery, to confirm that it has the Suples logo on it. For gripping options, it comes with three different handles. What makes it unique is its ability to cover all movement planes under load.
Overall
Aside from the bag, you will also get a free instructional DVD. The company also has training systems and active social media accounts that their customers can follow.
9. Ultra Fitness Gear
This is the kind of sandbag an aspiring athlete needs to take their game up a notch. With the five comfort grips, you will have a variety of workouts at your disposal. It’s a high-quality option, and the manufacturer gives you a 1-year warranty covering wear and tear.
Read moreWeight
The brand offers three distinct sizes. The small size can handle 25 lbs., medium 25 to 50 lbs., and the large 50 to 125 lbs. The weights are also easy to adjust.
Durability
The shell has diamondback cross-stitching. The 5-panel webbing combined with a heavy-duty YKK zipper is double stitched for unparalleled strength. It also has a PVC coating to improve on its durability.
Versatility
With the various weight alternatives, coupled with five grip options, you can do many routines with the Ultra Fitness Gear sandbag.
Features
The company constantly innovates to stay ahead of the pack. Because of incorporating high-quality materials and the best techniques, they are then able to produce such great bags.
Overall
With advancements in tech, this manufacturer can keep the quality high and prices low. These bags will hardly break, leak or burst.
10. OneFitWonder
OneFitWonder currently has one of the best sandbags in the market. They are heavy duty with a focus on durability and versatility. Everything from the military grade YKK zipper and stitching improve on those two aspects. The manufacturer also gives you a full year guarantee.
Read moreWeight
You can get one with a capacity of 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, and 100 pounds. All the bags have various assortments of filler bags with capacities of 20 and 10 lbs.
Durability
It is made of heavy-duty Cordura construction. The materials are the same as those in military racks. Even the zipper, which usually yields first, is protected by a Velcro closure. The seams are double and box stitched at all points.
Versatility
It will withstand anything that you throw at it. The smallest bag (30 lbs.) has two top handles measuring 7.5 inches, and two tab handles measuring 4 inches. The largest (100 lbs.), has two top handles measuring 8 inches and two side handles measuring 4.5 inches long.
Features
This sandbag is somewhat longer than average, so the sand shifts more than usual. However, you have to be mindful of your hands while lifting it, since the strings aren’t that thick. A good workaround would be to use a piece of cloth around the lifting point, to reduce abrasion.
Overall
To reduce the cost, the bag comes empty, and you can request for sand at your local hardware store cheaply.
Sources
- , The Total-Body Sandbag Workout, Guide
- , The Ultimate Sandbag Workout, Guide
- , How to Build Your Own Sand Bag in 30 Minutes, Guide
- , Sandbags for Flood Control - 8 Things you Need To Know, Answered question