Learning to punch properly requires a feeder. A feeder requires punching pads. This allows the striker to hit the pads at maximum 
force, learn what it feels to throw punches & combos which aids in training and helps protect the feeders arm as well as enhances reflexes by learning to catch punches.
Pads are highly recommended to anyone who uses boxing/mma gloves or their own hands and needs to learn fighting drills whether it be from boxing, MMA and even Kali.
If you have boxing gloves and/or MMA gloves and a partner, you’ll need focus mitts to help both of you complete martial arts workouts.
Safety tips: Everything you need to know about punching mitts is in this video below: