Boxing Accessories for Training

Whether you're an amateur, semi-pro or professional, there's a lot of equipment out there for boxers to train with, with a wide range of options for various budgets.

And you don't have to necessarily buy them in a store. You could just make your own.

1. Boxing Gloves: Padded gloves worn on the hands for protection and striking during training and sparring sessions.
2. Hand Wraps: Elastic or cloth wraps worn around the hands and wrists to provide support, stability, and protection against injuries.
3. Punching Bag: Heavy bag filled with sand, fabric, or other materials, used for practicing punching, kicking, and striking techniques.
4. Speed Bag: Small, air-filled bag attached to a rebound platform, used for improving hand-eye coordination, rhythm, and speed.
5. Double-End Bag: Small, air-filled bag suspended from both the ceiling and the floor, used for developing timing, accuracy, and reflexes.
6. Focus Mitts/Pad: Padded targets held by a coach or training partner, used for practicing combinations, accuracy, and power punches.
7. Thai Pads/Kicking Shields: Thick, padded targets held by a coach or training partner, used for practicing kicks, knees, and elbow strikes.
8. Medicine Ball: Weighted ball used for strength training, core exercises, and dynamic movements to improve power and explosiveness.
9. Jump Rope: Cardiovascular exercise tool used for improving footwork, agility, coordination, and endurance.
10. Headgear: Protective gear worn on the head and face to reduce the risk of cuts, bruises, and concussions during sparring sessions.
11. Mouthguard: Moldable mouthpiece worn over the teeth to protect against dental injuries and absorb impact during training and competition.
12. Boxing Shoes: Lightweight, high-top shoes with ankle support and a non-slip sole for traction and mobility in the ring.
13. Boxing Ring Timer: Electronic timer used to track round durations, rest intervals, and workout sessions during boxing training.
14. Heavy Bag Gloves: Padded gloves with wrist support and extra padding for hitting heavy bags with greater force and impact.
15. Boxing Hand Pads: Padded mitts worn on the hands for catching and blocking punches during partner drills and pad work.
16. Boxing Groin Protector: Protective cup worn by male boxers to shield the groin area from impact and reduce the risk of injury.
17. Boxing Timer App: Smartphone or tablet application with customizable round lengths, rest intervals, and audio cues for timing boxing workouts.
18. Reflex Ball: Ball attached to an elastic band or headband, used for improving hand-eye coordination, reaction time, and accuracy.
19. Boxing Tape: Adhesive tape used to secure hand wraps, protect skin, and provide additional support to joints and injuries.
20. Body Protector: Padded vest worn by coaches or training partners to absorb punches and body shots during sparring sessions.
21. Boxing Ring/Cage: Enclosed space with ropes or barriers, used for sparring, training, and competitive bouts in boxing gyms and arenas.
22. Boxing Target Stick: Long, padded stick with targets or pads on each end, used for practicing striking and defensive techniques.
23. Speed and Agility Ladder: Flat ladder-like device placed on the floor for footwork drills, agility training, and improving coordination.
24. Boxing Mitts Stabilizer: Adjustable strap or hook-and-loop closure system used to secure focus mitts and prevent them from shifting during pad work.
25. Boxing Water Bottle: Portable, reusable bottle for staying hydrated during boxing workouts, training sessions, and competitions.

Swimming Accessories

Going on vacation this winter? Maybe someplace sunny where you can swim? Consider your options when it comes to swimming accessories.

1. Swim Cap: Helps to keep hair out of the face and reduces drag in the water, improving hydrodynamics and comfort during swimming.
2. Goggles Case: Protective case for storing goggles, preventing scratches, and prolonging their lifespan.
3. Swim Towel: Absorbent towel for drying off after swimming, available in various sizes and materials for added comfort and convenience.
4. Waterproof Phone Case: Protective case for keeping smartphones dry and safe while swimming or near water, allowing for music playback or emergency communication.
5. Swim Bag: Durable bag for carrying swim gear, towels, and personal belongings to and from the pool or beach.
6. Kickboard: Buoyant foam or plastic board used for flotation and upper body isolation exercises during swim training.
7. Swim Fins: Short fins worn on the feet to increase propulsion and speed, improving leg strength and technique.
8. Pull Buoy: Flotation device placed between the legs to elevate the hips and legs during swim training, isolating the upper body muscles for improved strength and technique.
9. Hand Paddles: Plastic or silicone paddles worn on the hands to increase resistance and propulsion, enhancing upper body strength and stroke efficiency.
10. Nose Clip: Small clip worn over the nostrils to prevent water from entering the nose during swimming, reducing the risk of discomfort or sinus issues.
11. Ear Plugs: Soft silicone plugs inserted into the ears to prevent water from entering, reducing the risk of ear infections and discomfort.
12. Swim Snorkel: Breathing apparatus worn over the face to allow swimmers to breathe continuously while keeping their face submerged, improving body position and stroke technique.
13. Waterproof Watch: Timekeeping device designed to withstand water exposure, allowing swimmers to track workout duration and monitor performance metrics.
14. Swim Shirt/Rash Guard: Lightweight, quick-drying shirt worn for sun protection, reducing the risk of sunburn and skin damage during outdoor swimming.
15. Swim Cap Ear Guards: Soft silicone attachments that fit under the swim cap to protect the ears from pressure and discomfort during extended swim sessions.
16. Swim Goggles Anti-Fog Spray: Solution applied to the inner surface of goggles to prevent fogging and maintain clear vision while swimming.
17. Swim Parka: Insulated, water-resistant jacket worn before and after swimming to keep warm and dry in cold weather conditions.
18. Waterproof MP3 Player: Portable music player designed for underwater use, providing entertainment and motivation during swim workouts.
19. Swim Training Log: Journal or notebook for tracking swim workouts, goals, and progress over time, facilitating accountability and motivation.
20. Swim Training Equipment Bag: Compact bag for storing swim training tools such as fins, paddles, and snorkels, keeping gear organized and easily accessible.

Archery Equipment Accessories

 

1. Bow Sling: A strap that attaches to the bow, allowing the archer to carry the bow comfortably and securely when not in use.
2. Bow Stand: A device used to prop up the bow while the archer takes a break or waits for their turn to shoot.
3. Arrow Puller: A tool designed to grip and remove arrows from targets more easily, reducing strain on the hands and fingers.
4. Bow String Wax: Wax applied to the bowstring to lubricate and protect it from fraying or wearing out prematurely.
5. String Silencers: Dampeners attached to the bowstring to reduce noise and vibration upon release, making the shooting experience quieter and more comfortable.
6. Bow Sock/Cover: Fabric sleeve or cover designed to protect the bow from scratches, dust, and moisture during storage or transportation.
7. Arm Guard: Protective gear worn on the forearm to prevent the bowstring from slapping against the arm during the release, reducing the risk of bruising or injury.
8. Finger Tab/Glove: Protective gear worn on the fingers to shield them from friction and pressure during the release, enhancing comfort and consistency.
9. Bow Quiver: A container attached to the bow to hold arrows while shooting or moving between shooting locations, providing convenient access to arrows during practice or competitions.
10. Bow Case: Protective case or bag designed to store and transport the bow and accessories safely, shielding them from damage or weather elements.
11. Bowstring Finger Saver: Rubber or silicone attachments placed on the bowstring to protect the fingers from discomfort or pinching during the release.
12. Arrow Tube/Case: Container for storing and transporting arrows safely, preventing them from bending, breaking, or getting lost.
13. Bowstringer: Tool used to string or de-string a recurve bow safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of damaging the bow or injuring oneself.
14. Bow Square: Measuring tool used to check and adjust the brace height, nocking point, and other key parameters of the bow setup for optimal performance.
15. Peep Sight Tubing: Flexible tubing attached to the bowstring to protect the peep sight from damage and ensure consistent alignment with the archer's eye.
16. Dampening Accessories: Various dampening devices such as limb dampeners, string leeches, and bowstring dampeners designed to reduce noise and vibration, improving shooting comfort and minimizing fatigue.
17. Bow Hanger: Hook or bracket attached to the bow for hanging it securely on a tree stand, shooting range, or other suitable surface.
18. Bowstring Finger Guard: Thin strip of material attached to the bowstring to protect the fingers from abrasion and discomfort during prolonged shooting sessions.
19. Bowstring Wax Applicator: Tool designed to apply bowstring wax evenly and efficiently, ensuring proper maintenance and longevity of the bowstring.
20. Bowstring Separator: Tool used to separate strands of the bowstring for serving or maintenance purposes, facilitating repairs and adjustments as needed.

 

Sign up for archery lessons in Toronto by contacting cardiotrek@gmail.com. Don't wait, prebook your archery lessons today!      

The 30 Most Popular Exercise Equipment Essentials for your Home

What are the most popular items you can get for exercising in the comfort of your own home? These are especially important if you don't want to go outside during the winter... And yes, going to the gym 5 blocks away counts as going outside.

So why not stay inside instead? Here's a few of the things you could get:

1. Exercise Mat: Provides cushioning and support for various floor exercises like yoga, Pilates, or bodyweight workouts.
2. Dumbbells: Versatile weights for strength training exercises targeting different muscle groups.
3. Resistance Bands: Elastic bands of varying resistance levels for strength training, stretching, and rehabilitation exercises.
4. Kettlebells: Cast-iron weights with a handle for dynamic strength and cardio workouts like swings, squats, and lunges.
5. Jump Rope: Cardiovascular exercise tool for improving agility, coordination, and endurance.
6. Stability Ball: Large inflatable ball used for core strengthening, balance exercises, and stretching.
7. Foam Roller: Self-massage tool for relieving muscle tension, improving flexibility, and aiding in post-workout recovery.
8. Yoga Blocks: Supportive blocks used in yoga practice to assist with proper alignment and deepen stretches.
9. Pull-Up Bar: Mountable bar for performing pull-ups, chin-ups, and other upper body exercises.
10. Push-Up Bars: Handles that elevate the hands during push-up exercises, allowing for greater range of motion and reduced wrist strain.
11. Medicine Ball: Weighted ball for dynamic strength and power exercises, throwing drills, and core workouts.
12. Adjustable Weight Bench: Versatile bench for performing various exercises, including chest presses, tricep dips, and seated rows.
13. Suspension Trainer: Portable straps or ropes that leverage body weight for resistance training exercises targeting multiple muscle groups.
14. Ankle Weights: Weighted cuffs worn around the ankles to increase resistance during leg lifts, kicks, and lower body exercises.
15. Exercise Bike: Stationary bicycle for cardiovascular workouts, interval training, and low-impact cycling.
16. Treadmill: Motorized or manual machine for walking, jogging, or running indoors, offering customizable speed and incline settings.
17. Rowing Machine: Indoor rower for full-body cardiovascular and strength training workouts, simulating the motion of rowing on water.
18. Stepper: Compact exercise machine that simulates stair climbing for cardiovascular fitness and lower body toning.
19. Yoga Mat Towel: Absorbent towel designed to cover yoga mats, providing slip-resistant and hygienic surface during sweaty workouts.
20. Hand Grippers: Handheld devices with springs or resistance bands for strengthening grip, hand, and forearm muscles.
21. Balance Board: Platform or disc for improving balance, coordination, and stability through various exercises and drills.
22. Skipping Rope: Lightweight and portable cardio equipment for jumping rope exercises to enhance cardiovascular fitness and agility.
23. Push-Up Handles: Elevated handles that reduce wrist strain during push-up exercises and allow for deeper range of motion.
24. Stepper: Compact machine for aerobic workouts that simulate climbing stairs, aiding in cardiovascular fitness and lower body strength.
25. Ab Wheel: Wheel with handles for engaging core muscles and improving abdominal strength and stability.
26. Resistance Tubes: Flexible tubes with handles for resistance training exercises targeting the upper and lower body.
27. Yoga Strap: Adjustable strap used to deepen stretches, improve flexibility, and assist with yoga poses.
28. Exercise Ball Chair: Stability ball integrated into a chair frame for ergonomic seating and active sitting to improve posture and core strength.
29. Balance Pad: Foam cushion designed to challenge balance and stability during exercises like squats, lunges, and standing poses.
30. Pull-Up Assist Band: Elastic band that provides assistance during pull-up exercises for individuals working towards their first unassisted pull-up.

 

Expensive Exercise Equipment Ideas

Thinking of buying a loved one (or yourself) some expensive exercise equipment for Christmas this year? Well, maybe you should think again.

Are these actually worth the cost? Or are they overpriced? There are less expensive alternatives that offer the same or similar benefits.

Some of the options below (like the mirror) are really rather silly, but appeal to people who are vain about their appearances.

1. Peloton Bike: High-end stationary exercise bike with a built-in screen for streaming live and on-demand workouts. Price: Starting at $1,495 for the bike, plus a monthly subscription fee for classes.

2. Mirror Home Gym: Interactive mirror with embedded technology for streaming fitness classes and providing real-time feedback. Price: Starting at $1,495 for the mirror, plus a monthly subscription fee for classes.

3. Technogym Kinesis Personal: Multi-functional fitness station with adjustable cables for resistance training exercises. Price: Starting at $7,000.

4. Hydrow Rower: High-end rowing machine with a built-in screen for streaming live and on-demand rowing workouts. Price: Starting at $2,495 for the rower, plus a monthly subscription fee for classes.

5. Tonal Smart Home Gym: Wall-mounted resistance training system with built-in AI technology for personalized workouts. Price: Starting at $2,995, plus a monthly subscription fee for classes.

6. Woodway Curve Treadmill: Self-powered treadmill with a curved design for a more natural running experience. Price: Starting at $7,000.

7. NordicTrack Incline Trainer: Treadmill with adjustable incline levels for simulating uphill running. Price: Starting at $1,999.

8. Bowflex Max Trainer: Hybrid elliptical and stair climber machine for high-intensity interval training. Price: Starting at $999.

9. WaterRower Rowing Machine: Wooden rowing machine with a water resistance system for a smooth and realistic rowing motion. Price: Starting at $1,160.

10. TrueForm Runner Treadmill: Non-motorized treadmill with a curved design for a more natural running gait. Price: Starting at $4,495.

11. Precor Elliptical Trainer: Commercial-grade elliptical trainer with advanced features and durability. Price: Starting at $2,000.

12. Assault AirBike: Fan-powered exercise bike with unlimited resistance for intense cardio workouts. Price: Starting at $699.

13. Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle: Commercial-grade indoor cycling bike with magnetic resistance and Bluetooth connectivity. Price: Starting at $1,995.

14. Rogue Fitness Monster Rack: Heavy-duty power rack for strength training exercises like squats, bench presses, and pull-ups. Price: Starting at $1,000.

15. Concept2 SkiErg: Skiing machine for full-body cardio and strength workouts. Price: Starting at $815.

16. TRX Suspension Trainer: Portable suspension training system for bodyweight exercises targeting multiple muscle groups. Price: Starting at $169.95.

17. Technogym Skillmill: Self-powered treadmill with a curved deck for high-intensity interval training and speed work. Price: Starting at $12,000.

18. Precor AMT (Adaptive Motion Trainer): Adaptive elliptical cross-trainer with adjustable stride length and resistance levels. Price: Starting at $7,395.

19. Hoist Fitness ROC-IT Selectorized Machines: Selectorized strength training machines with dynamic movement patterns for improved muscle activation. Price: Starting at $3,000 per machine.

20. Body-Solid Functional Training Center: Multi-station functional training machine for full-body workouts. Price: Starting at $3,000.

While these exercise equipment options may offer advanced features, durability, and high-quality construction, their high price tags may not always align with the needs and preferences of all users, leading to debates about their overall value for money. Additionally, more affordable alternatives may provide similar workout experiences without the hefty investment.

Inexpensive Gift Ideas for Exercise Equipment

Looking to buy something for a family member who is into exercising?

Here's a list of inexpensive exercise equipment that can make great Christmas gifts:

1. Resistance Bands: These versatile bands are great for strength training, stretching, and rehabilitation exercises. They come in various resistance levels and are compact for easy storage.

2. Jump Rope: An affordable and effective cardio workout tool that can be used virtually anywhere, indoors or outdoors.

3. Yoga Mat: Perfect for yoga, Pilates, stretching, and floor exercises. Look for a durable and non-slip mat for added safety.

4. Dumbbells: Hand weights are essential for strength training exercises. Opt for adjustable dumbbells or a set of fixed-weight dumbbells depending on your budget.

5. Stability Ball: Also known as a Swiss ball, it's excellent for core strengthening, balance exercises, and improving posture.

6. Foam Roller: Ideal for self-myofascial release and relieving muscle tension. It's a great gift for anyone who's into fitness or suffers from muscle tightness.

7. Kettlebell: A versatile piece of equipment that can be used for strength, endurance, and functional training exercises.

8. Exercise Mat Puzzle Tiles: These interlocking foam tiles provide cushioning and support for floor exercises and can be easily assembled and disassembled.

9. Pull-Up Bar: A doorway pull-up bar is an inexpensive way to work the upper body and can be easily installed without any drilling.

10. Ankle Weights: Great for adding resistance to lower body exercises like leg lifts, kicks, and squats, helping to increase strength and endurance.

     

    See also: Expensive Exercise Equipment Ideas
    

    Merry Christmas!