Combat sports involving martial arts require high levels of athleticism that need to be specifically trained. Punch/kick bags are staples of training spaces as they allow athletes to independently hone their striking techniques with contact. This may be great for developing technique but the lack of feedback and interactivity limits how informative this method of training can be. A common issue with existing products is that bases can be too lightweight and cause excessive movement, disrupting usage and scratching floors. Likewise, poor materials, manufacture and design see defects such as early wear, cracks and potentially leaks. High end “smart” products are usually large and static – unideal for moving about shared environments like homes, gyms and dojos. Finally, training with a bag is sometimes less favourable than with an opponent as it lacks the same degree of realism.

Prevail is a freestanding punching bag that solves these issues. It modernises an existing product with the inclusion of technology, exploiting a rising trend of smart products and fitness tracking. A performance orientated user is then able to train sports specific attributes and receive feedback in real time, enabling independent training at an elite level. Responsive targets embedded with sensors and LEDs are used to measure and communicate training data. Likewise, these can be viewed on the screen at the base of the product, also used to select training modes. Due to portability and stability in mind, it is viable for use in communal spaces or at home and is adapted for use in these varied environments. The bag’s humanoid form and adjustability suits a range of users and is proportioned for realistic striking. Several flex points, in the head and torso, simulate motion of the body in response to strikes building realism too.