Measuring speedbag strike force

I'm starting a PIC microcontroller project to measure:

1) the force that a speedbag is hit (pounds);
2) the speed (beats per minute);

and perhaps drive some leds for the strobe effects.

I've been looking at this piezoresistive force sensor: SparkFun Electronics - Flexiforce Pressure Sensor - 100lbs.

Anyone familure with this sensor? Would it be able to cope with repetitive pounding from a leather covered speedbag, and provide accurate readings?

(I've sent an email to the company that makes them, but haven't received a response.)

Your post is very old, but I have great familiarity with these sensors. They are indeed very rugged and can handle lots of roughhousing. They perform well when embedded in elastomers, too.