What is an Exercise Ball? - Reasons why you need to add an exercise ball to your workouts 

What is an Exercise Ball?

An exercise ball, also known as a stability ball, Swiss ball, or yoga ball, is a large inflatable ball made of elastic PVC material. It is typically used for various fitness and rehabilitation exercises. Exercise balls come in different sizes, usually ranging from 45 to 85 centimeters in diameter, and can support different weight capacities.

Exercise balls are versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises targeting different muscle groups. They are commonly used for core strengthening exercises, as they require balance and stability, engaging the muscles of the abdomen, back, and hips. Additionally, exercise balls can be used for stretching, flexibility exercises, and improving posture.

What are the diffirent types and uses of Exercise Balls?

1. THE SWISS BALL

The Swiss Ball is an excellent tool for a comprehensive full-body workout and provides the option to increase the difficulty level of basic exercises effortlessly. Swiss Balls are available in various sizes, so it's crucial to select the appropriate size based on your height. Please refer to the chart provided at the end of this article to determine the best size for you. The Swiss Ball serves multiple purposes, primarily focusing on enhancing stability, coordination, and it is frequently employed by various healthcare professionals for injury rehabilitation, posture correction, and more.

2. THE MEDICINE BALL (OR WEIGHTED BALL)

The Medicine Ball is primarily used as a weighted prop (as depicted in the accompanying image). While it was initially utilized for abdominal muscle workouts, it has now gained popularity in fitness and sports due to its versatility in a wide range of exercises. It enables you to engage in muscle strengthening, as well as power and explosiveness training for specific exercises. By utilizing the Medicine Ball to shift your body weight, it also enhances stability and coordination.

3. THE BOSU (OR HALF BALL)

The BOSU is a practical fitness accessory that allows for utilization of both its surfaces. It offers greater stability compared to the Swiss Ball, making it an excellent introductory tool for ball exercises. The BOSU enables you to diversify your exercises, particularly targeting the abdominal and stabilizer muscles, while adjusting the difficulty level as needed. Apart from its valuable rehabilitation applications, it also aids in improving stability and coordination.

4. THE SLAM-BALL

Unlike the Medicine Ball, the Slam Ball is heavier and lacks bounce as it is predominantly filled with sand. It is highly convenient for exercises that require a forceful impact or simply as a heavy object, with weights ranging up to 50 lbs. or more. The Slam-Ball facilitates power training, coordination enhancement, and even cardiovascular endurance.

5. THE WALL-BALL

Wall-Balls are larger than Medicine Balls and are not designed for throwing. They are firmer and lighter than Slam Balls, making them suitable for throwing against appropriate surfaces. Wall-Balls typically weigh between 6 to 20 pounds, allowing for a variety of exercises. Incorporating Wall-Balls into your workout routine enhances coordination, muscular endurance, cardiovascular capacity, and various other benefits.

Reasons why you need to add an exercise ball to your workouts

1. Good back and spine health

Using an exercise ball can enhance the muscles responsible for supporting your spinal structure, leading to an improvement in posture and an increase in lower back strength.

2. Core strength

When you utilize an exercise ball, it stimulates the stabilizer muscles within your core and enhances your connection with your center of gravity. The unsteady surface of the exercise ball prompts your core muscles to exert additional force in maintaining overall body balance during exercise.

3. Flexibility is guaranteed

The exercise ball's spherical surface provides an additional stretching effect to your muscles. Additionally, it stimulates your body to accommodate the ball's shape, reposition joints, and target specific muscle groups in order to maintain balance.

4. Better balance

When utilizing the exercise ball, you engage your back and abdominal muscles to uphold balance. The challenge of maintaining correct posture while using the ball enhances both your overall balance and proprioception, enabling you to perceive the relative positions and movements of your body parts accurately.

5. It offers diversity

This versatile tool has the ability to complement various exercise routines. The exercise ball seamlessly fits into a wide range of exercise disciplines, whether it's a traditional gym workout involving sit-ups, Pilates exercises, or even resistance training. By utilizing the exercise ball as a support or prop, you can enhance resistance and introduce a variety of movements to your workout.

What to Consider When Buying Exercise Balls

There are a few things to consider when buying exercise balls, including:

• Size: Exercise balls come in a variety of sizes. Choose a size that is appropriate for your height and weight.
• Material: Exercise balls are made from a variety of materials, including PVC, vinyl, and leather. Choose a material that is durable and comfortable.
• Shape: Exercise balls come in a variety of shapes, including round, oval, and square. Choose a shape that is comfortable for you to sit on and exercise on.
• Price: Exercise balls can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping.

Top 5 Exercise Balls

Here are the top 5 exercise balls:

1. DYNAPRO Exercise Ball: This exercise ball is made of extra-thick, eco-friendly, anti-burst material that supports over 2200lbs. It is available in a variety of sizes and colors.
2. Lululemon Exercise Ball: This exercise ball is made of durable PVC and is available in a variety of sizes and colors. It comes with a carrying case and pump.
3. Togu Exercise Ball: This exercise ball is made of high-quality vinyl and is available in a variety of sizes and colors. It comes with a pump and carrying case.
4. ViPR Exercise Ball: This exercise ball is made of durable leather and is available in a variety of sizes and colors. It comes with a pump and carrying case.
5. Stamina Exercise Ball: This exercise ball is made of durable PVC and is available in a variety of sizes and colors. It comes with a pump and carrying case.

Tips for Buying Exercise Balls

Here are a few tips for buying exercise balls:

• Do your research: Read reviews and compare prices before you buy an exercise ball.
• Consider your needs: Think about what you will be using the exercise ball for and choose one that is appropriate for your needs.
• Set a budget: Exercise balls can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping.
• Buy from a reputable dealer: Make sure you buy your exercise ball from a reputable dealer. This will ensure that you get a quality product and that you have someone to turn to if you have any problems.

By following these tips, you can buy an exercise ball that is perfect for your needs and your budget.