Choosing a fitball - an effective exercise machine accessible to everyone

Fitball (from the English “Fit” - healthy, “Ball” - ball) is an impressive size rubber ball with which you can perform various physical exercises. It would seem, what is so interesting about such a simple subject? However, despite its ordinary appearance, fitball has its advantages. It allows you to achieve impressive results with relatively little physical activity.

Choosing such a simulator is not so easy. Especially when the purchase is made in an online store. Many people are accustomed, when purchasing, to focus mainly only on the appearance of the product, although this does not play the most key role. Therefore, before ordering a fitball, be sure to take into account the practical tips from this article.

Types of fitballs.

In order to exercise on exercise equipment, you can join a fitness club, but it is much easier and more enjoyable to train at home. But what if exercise machines are very expensive and, moreover, take up a lot of space? An alternative way out of the situation could be a fitball, since it is inexpensive and takes up little space. It is for this reason that these gymnastic balls are very popular. In addition, a fitball can be used in activities with babies. Moreover, this unit is perfect for entertaining children or can even be a replacement for a regular chair.

There are several types of gymnastic ball:

Classic fitball (prices from 10 to 56 dollars). In the classic version, a fitball is a smooth rubber ball without any additional devices. This exercise machine is ideal for any age, including small children. This ball can withstand a load of 150-300 kg. Its size varies from 45 to 100 cm in diameter.

Oval fitball ($20-$56). This fitball differs from the classic model only in shape. In addition, it has one advantage - stability, which makes it more convenient. As a rule, an oval fitball can withstand a load of 100 to 140 kilograms.

Fitball with handles (price from 8 to 25 dollars). This type of fitball looks the same as the classic model, but has additional devices - “handles” that help you stay on the ball. Such fitballs will be convenient for pregnant women, children and beginners. A gym ball with handles can also be used as a regular chair or stool.

Massage fitball ($14-$56). Such fitballs, in addition to the necessary load on the muscles, also provide a massage effect. The uneven surface of the ball (usually spikes or bumps) helps improve blood circulation.

Types of fitness balls

Before buying a fitball, you need to determine for what purposes it will be used - the type you need and its price depend on this. Exercise machines differ in shape, weight and purpose:

Fitball is a classic inflatable fitness ball. Designed for home exercises and training in the gym. This ball is light, even a child can lift it. Made from high-quality rubber or latex, it is easy to inflate at home. Some balls come with small pumps. The fitness ball is ideal to use at home.
Medicine ball or medicine ball - often has a round shape. Unlike a fitball, it is very heavy - its weight can reach 50 kg. The medicine ball allows you to apply professional loads to different muscle groups and is used primarily in physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Bosu ball - unlike a round fitball, has the shape of a hemisphere on a solid base. Due to its shape, the bosu is more stable and therefore safer than a classic fitness ball. The domed side of the hemisphere is used for strength and aerobic exercises and development of flexibility. If you turn the boss upside down, you get the perfect balance platform.

Fitball size.

Of course, you can exercise on a fitball of any size. But if the gymnastic ball is too big or small for you, then, firstly, it will simply be uncomfortable, and secondly, you risk getting some kind of injury. Therefore, choosing the right ball size is very important. There are two ways to do this: measure your own height or arm length.

Selecting a fitball by height:

For a height of 155-169 cm, a ball with a diameter of 55 cm is suitable.
If your height is up to 185 centimeters, choose a fitball with a diameter of 65 cm.
If your height exceeds 185 centimeters, you should choose balls with a diameter of 75-95 cm.
Well, for children and those whose height is very small, balls of 45 cm are suitable.

If you are going to choose a gymnastic ball using the second method, then measure the length of your arm from your fingertips to your shoulder.

If the result is less than 55 cm, choose a fitball measuring 45 centimeters.
With an arm length of 56-65 cm, a 55-centimeter simulator is perfect.
A gymnastic ball with a diameter of 65 centimeters will be suitable for those with an arm length of 66-70 cm.
And those whose arms are much longer than the previous indicators should take a closer look at larger fitballs.

The best fitness balls

Cheap balls from little-known manufacturers are not always bad; among them there are models worthy of attention, available for any wallet. But in order not to take risks, it is better to be confident in the brand from the very beginning. Top best manufacturers:

Green Hill (England);
Torneo (Italy);
Bradex (Israel);
Torres (France);
Ledragomma (Italy);
Reebok (USA);
Togu (Germany).

Fitball-65 BRADEX

The Bradex inflatable ball is an ideal choice for both simple home exercises and physical therapy. It is suitable for sports activities for the whole family. Thanks to its convenient shape and universal size, it can be used for activities with infants. More details:

Price – 800-900 rubles.
Characteristics: made of environmentally friendly material with the addition of silicone, thanks to which the anti-puncture system is activated. Recommended for pregnant women in preparation for childbirth. Withstands loads of up to 150 kg. With the help of this fitball, you train your abs, hips, and gluteal muscles.
Pros: low cost, versatility, good quality.
Cons: weight restrictions, low stability compared to platform balls.

Fitball TORRES

The exercise machine is perfect for daily fitness classes at home and in the gym. Available in diameters 55, 65 and 75 cm.

Helps correct posture, relax intervertebral discs, and train the vestibular apparatus.

Classes provide an even load on all muscle groups. More details:

Price: 600-900 rubles.
Features: Some TORRES models are equipped with handles. The handles help maintain balance and make the ball safer when playing with your child. The ball with a diameter of 75 cm can withstand weight up to 300 kg.
Pros: affordable price, ability to exercise for people with large weights, handles for children.
Cons: some buyers note that the fitness ball deflates air too quickly.

Massage “Fitball-75 plus” BRADEX

This type of ball differs from classic models in its special surface, which provides an additional massage effect during training. Nerve endings are stimulated, so the ball can be used for classes in speech therapy centers. More details:

Price: 950-1100 rubles.
Characteristics: thanks to the massage function, it is recommended for people with disorders of the vestibular apparatus, support and neurological disorders, and during recovery after operations. Withstands weight up to 150 kg.
Pros: massage function.
Cons: weight restrictions.

Medicine ball Green Hill, 2 kg

Weighted leather stuffed medicine ball. Designed for specialized exercises during rehabilitation after injuries or operations. Can be used in medical rehabilitation centers and in physical therapy classes. More details:

Price: 2000-2300 rubles.
Characteristics: made of high-quality genuine leather and regenerated fiber filler. Exercises with a medicine ball strengthen muscles and help you recover faster from injuries and surgeries. Actively used in various fitness programs.
Pros: natural material, wide range of applications.
Cons: high price.

Fitball-25 BRADEX

Exercise machine for Pilates, fitness, yoga. A small ball made of high-quality PVC and silicone will help diversify your sports activities and correctly distribute the load on the muscles. Can be used at home and in sports clubs and schools. More details:

Price: 600-700 rubles.
Characteristics: recommended for home training, aqua fitness. Used for physical rehabilitation, kinesiology classes. Helps to load all muscle groups evenly.
Pros: compact, affordable price.
Cons: weight restrictions – up to 120 kg.

Useful tips.

In order not to be disappointed in your purchase after purchasing a fitball, take into account the following tips. They will allow you not only to make a successful choice, but also to get the maximum effect from training with the ball.

At first glance, cheap fitballs are almost no different from expensive ones. However, there is a difference. Many inexpensive balls explode when punctured or accidentally cut. Therefore, pay attention to the product description, which should indicate the ABS marking, which stands for Anti-Burst System. This means that after damage to the surface, the ball will simply begin to gradually deflate, but will not explode. This point is especially important if the ball is bought for a child.
It is necessary to use fitballs on a flat and clean surface, then they will not be damaged. But if you do accidentally puncture the ball, you can seal the damage using special glue produced by the manufacturers of this simulator.
When buying online, it is difficult to determine the quality of the ball. But, you can see the seams of the fitball in the photo. The seam lines should not be too clearly defined. Otherwise, this indicates poor quality of the product. It will be uncomfortable to practice with such a ball.
Although fitballs are delivered in a deflated state, it is better to store them in an inflated state. For this purpose, it is worth setting aside a special place in the room. At the same time, it should be remembered that the ball should not be placed near heating devices.
The gymnastic ball can be inflated with absolutely any pump with the appropriate nipple. And if you don’t have a pump at hand, you can pump up the fitball using your mouth, although this is quite difficult to do.

How to choose a fitball for pregnant women

Which fitball to choose for pregnant women? Size also plays an important role here. You can be guided by the sizes that are listed in the tables above.

But it’s not enough to choose the size of a fitball for pregnant women, you also need to buy a genuine product. You should only shop at certified sporting goods stores.

The third important factor is strength. It should not be made of too thin material. From the models it is better to choose those balls that can withstand from 150 to 300 kg.

A gymnastic ball is very useful for childbirth and the prenatal period. And some expectant mothers even give birth on it. But such moments need to be discussed with doctors.

If you want to improve your body, choose a fitball. There are different types, and you will definitely find the option that will be optimal for your purposes. The main thing is to approach his choice correctly and seriously. Then the ball will become a good friend for you, your loved ones, and even your baby.

History of creation

The history of fitball begins in the middle of the last century. In 1960, the ball was used by Swiss physiotherapist Susan Klein-Vogelbach. At first, the simulator was used exclusively as a therapeutic tool for the rehabilitation of patients with spinal injuries. Then it began to be used to treat patients diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Later, doctors came to the conclusion that the Swiss ball can be used not only for therapy, but also for prevention. Regular exercise helped strengthen the muscular-ligamentous system and helped stabilize weight. In the 90s of the 20th century, the Swiss ball began to be widely used in gymnasiums as a means of losing weight and shaping the figure. This is how aerobics with fitball has become a popular area of fitness.

The best manufacturers of fitballs

As a result of the wide variety and options of gymnastic balls on sale, a buyer may be confused about which one to choose for himself or a relative. In sports stores, the range of fitballs differs in size, color and texture. Many manufacturers who offer this product make 1 or more lines of balls.

There are also balls on the market with different pricing policies, so you can buy an inexpensive fitball or at a very high price. Experts advise making a choice only in favor of quality products from trusted brands. The most reliable models can be considered German, American or Italian. The main companies that are in demand and users:

Reebok;
Togu;
Ledraplastic;
Bradex.

The described manufacturers can offer balls made from high quality materials, and during production the requirements are strictly observed, which makes it possible to serve the product for a long time. The main advantage is that the equipment is completely safe and does not harm human health, which is very important for expectant mothers and children.

When purchasing, you need to look for certification, which is always available if the product is of high quality. It is recommended to check the documents with the seller or independently search for information about the brand on the Internet, only after that choose and buy the right ball.

The principle of operation and the design of the fitball

To understand how to choose the right fitball, you need to understand the principle of operation of such a ball. It is used to perform gymnastic exercises, helps improve health, is often used during pregnancy and helps during childbirth. The product was created by a doctor who initially used it only for therapeutic purposes, for the treatment and rehabilitation of the body. After a while, they began to use it for sports training.

A simulator of this kind can be used by many people; the group of acceptable ones includes:

Children, some of whom may include infants.
Pregnant women.
People with a sedentary lifestyle.
Anyone who has problems with excess weight.
Patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system.
Elderly people.

A feature of the fitball is its high degree of strength and excellent elasticity. You can conduct classes at home on your own or in a group led by a trainer. Visually, the device is round, like a large ball. There are models on sale that are completely smooth, with small spikes or pimples, which are used for massage purposes. The price of such a device is much lower than that of a treadmill or similar exercise machines, but the efficiency is no worse.

Training using such a tool allows you to work out all the muscles, improving flexibility, dexterity, and coordination. In addition, the ball helps correct a person’s posture, and during exercise, fat and weight are effectively burned.

Fitballs provide an excellent therapeutic and preventive effect in the early stages of dystrophic disorders or degenerative problems that occur with joints or vertebrae. In addition, healthy people can use it, because the ball helps eliminate the effects of stress and normalizes mood, improves the functioning of the stomach and the entire intestinal tract. Since there is no strong physical stress on the legs, the ball is suitable for older people who can easily develop and train their joints.

All exercises on such a ball are similar to riding horses, since in a sitting position you need to constantly monitor your own balance, maintaining it, and this makes it possible to work out muscle groups that are often not trained in regular exercises.

Fitball improves the functioning of almost all internal organs. Reflex communication improves, which is beneficial for any child who may have intellectual or mental disabilities.

Types of fitballs

You can choose the right fitball only if you determine the main types of such a product. In general, there are few of them, so it will not be difficult for the buyer to decide.

Classic fitball (smooth)

Such ball models are often suitable for newborns and pregnant women, but anyone else can use them. Fitball is suitable not only for sports, but also for relaxation and calmness. Since the surface is smooth and there are no additional elements on it, the possibility of damage, which can occur in people with thin and delicate skin, is completely eliminated.

Pros:

A universal model that will suit any group of people.
Can be used to calm and relieve stress.
Can be used by pregnant women and newborns.

The main disadvantage is the lack of massage effect.

Massage (pimply, with spikes)

Such models visually differ from classical types by the presence of different protrusions that provide massage. In addition to the basic qualities that smooth types have, this ball helps solve the problem of excess weight, stretch marks on the skin, and fat deposits. It can be used for training or treating various back problems, as well as for relaxation and stress relief.

The main thing you need to pay attention to is the flooring where the ball will be used; due to the spikes, it may be difficult for it to spin on an uneven floor.

Pros:

Has a massage effect.
Can be used for relaxation.
Perfectly solves the problems of excess body weight, cellulite or stretch marks.
Helps heal the spine.

Minuses:

Prohibited for newborns, as well as people with tissue edema.
Bruising may occur.

With horns or brackets

Such models are characterized by a completely smooth surface, but during manufacturing they immediately create horns or brackets that are used as a hand. This makes it easy to master balance. Balls are often used for training and development of children, since it is easier for a child to hold on and they can jump without losing coordination. Beginners can also start practicing on this ball without causing injury or fear of falling off it. In addition, there are several individual exercises that require the use of horns or braces.

Pros:

An excellent choice for a child or beginner.
Makes it possible to improve coordination and maintain balance more confidently.
Suitable for many exercises that cannot be done without a holder.

No cons have been identified.