10 Best Exercise Balls Tested & Fully Reviewed
By Stacey O'Connor
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The idea of home exercise equipment tends to make people nervous. Cost accessibility and ease of use tends to scare people away from getting equipment for their home. The exercise ball is a smart alternative to the more complex and costly options. The exercise ball can be easily stored compared to other home exercise gear. Exercise balls also make great replacements for office chairs, so you can workout while you work on other things.
Used in everything from yoga to strengthening you core, the exercise ball is an all in one piece of equipment. They are perfect for working on flexibility, endurance, and balance, all things ultimately very important to runners. We have put our picks for the best exercise balls on the market into a list, featured below, so that our readership can find the convenient home workout device that works best for them.
- Live Infinitely
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Our rating - Multiple sizes and colors
- Price: See Here
- Black Mountain
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Our rating - Professional grade
- Price: See Here
- DynaPro
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Our rating - Affordable
- Price: See Here
10 Best Exercise Balls
Live Infinitely
This product is for individuals who like to switch up their routines from Pilates to yoga to CrossFit. This is for experienced users looking for a versatile product to keep up with their active life style.
Accessories
The Live Infinitely Exercise Ball comes with three essential tools: an extra air plug, a portable hand pump, and a tool to help you remove the valve. Not only that, but you will receive access to Live Infinitetly's online exercise community.
Durability
This product can withstand up to 2200 pounds. It has been thoroughly tested to ensure it won't leak or pop. It is made from a BPA and PVC materials which are both long lasting and durable.
Value
This product can be purchased in different sizes, so the price differs slightly based on the size. Regardless of which size you are purchasing, this product is an affordable item. It also comes with a one year warranty which makes it an even better value.
- Accessories
- Multiple color options
- Mid level price range
- One year warrenty
- Access to online fitness community
- A few customers noted leaks in their products
Black Mountain
The smart consumer who wants to know they are getting a piece of high-quality exercise equipment that will last long and won't disappoint.
Accessories
This product comes with its own foot pump for reinflating the ball if it should become deflated. Reviewers preferred the foot pump over the hand pump that comes with other products.
Durability
This product can withstand up to 2000 pounds of weight. It is a professional level piece of exercise equipment that can stand up to everyday use.
Value
Black Mountain tests all of their products to ensure they meet a high bar of quality. Each Black Mountain product comes with a 90 day money back guarantee so there is no risk in purchasing their products. This ball is also very affordable and at the lower end of our list in terms of price.
- Professional grade
- 90 day money back guarantee
- Comes in a multiple colors and sizes
- Affordable
- Foot pump is the only accessorie it comes with.
DynaPro
The person that travels but wants to keep their exercise routine in tact. This product easily inflates and deflates and comes with a portable hand pump.
Accessories
This product comes with a small but powerful hand pump. This pump is praised as a great travel companion.
Value
DynaPro offers different sizes for their exercise balls and based on the sizing, the price will be different. Even at its most expensive level, this is still an affordable product. It is on the higher end of the price range of the products on our list, but it does come with an anti-burst guarantee in the event is does wear prematurely.
Durability
This product is slip proof and burst proof. It is made from a durable, environmentally friendly material that is designed to last longer and maintain its shape.
- Burst proof
- Different color and sizing options
- Perfect for traveling
- Small leaks were reported by some consumers
Gaiam Total Balance
This products is for the individual looking for a quality product and a great workout DVD. The DVD is certainly inspired by yoga and will push a novice yogi and veteran alike.
Accessories
Like all the other products on our list, this exercise ball comes with a pump. What really sets it apart is the quality workout DVD that it also comes with. Reviewers loved it and said it was informative and challenging.
Durability
This product is made from a durable rubber. Reviewers commented that it held up against tough workouts and rarely needed to be re-inflated.
Value
Considering that this set comes with its own DVD that can supplement the cost of joining a gym or exercise class, this product has a great value. It is also right in the middle of the price points on our list.
- Great workout dvd
- Trusted brand name
- Affordable
- Perfect for yoga
- Single color and size option.
URBNFit
If you are looking for a high quality exercise ball with a money back guarantee with many different color options then check out this set!
Accessories
Not only does this product come with a workout guide and a quick inflating pump.
Durability
The material used to make this ball is professional grade PVC. It has been tested to be burst proof and it is sweat and water proof to ensure that sweat won't break down the material of the product.
Value
Not only is it an affordable price, it also comes with a full money back guarantee. URBNFit prides itself on being a brand that can provide high quality products to their athletes without the high cost.
- Money back guarantee
- 8 color options
- Affordable
- Withstand up to 2000 pounds
- Some recieved a size they didn't order
BOSU
At this price point, this product is not for the novice athlete. The Bosu Pro Balance trainer is for the experienced fitness enthusiast.
Accessories
The Pro Balance Trainer isn't just a single product, but it is more of an entire fitness program. It comes with its own fitness DVD and training guide, as well as a portable hand pump to keep it fully inflated.
Durability
The BOSU balance trainer has a weight limit of 300 pounds and has a 90 day limited warranty. A few reviewers noted that the ball separated from the base, but overall, most users had no issue in terms of the durability of the product.
Value
Compared to most of the products on this list, this item is very expensive and will cost you about $100. But this is a quality product that will stand up to the toughest workouts.
- Includes fitness DVD
- Stability Feature
- Made in the USA
- Expensive
ProBody
This ball is specifically effective for Pilates, Yoga, Physical Therapy, Barre, Core Training, and Stability.
Accessories
This product comes equipped with its own small, and highly efficient, hand pump.
Durability
This mini ball is a high quality exercise balance ball made out of PVC material. It is also free DEHP, DNOP, DBP, DIDP, PPB, and DINP (6 harmful materials typically found in many products.
Value
At just $14.95, this ball comes with a money back Guarantee in the rare case that it should burst within the first 90 days. If this were to happen the company will also supply you with a replacement ball, free of charge
- Burst Resistant
- Affordable
- Free of harmful ingredients
- Several color options available
- Money Back Guarntee
- Several users report the pump is ineffecient
LuxFit
This ball is for the individual who cares about their fitness as much as safety. It has been rigorously tested to ensure that it is totally burst proof. It is also made from a slip resistant material to keep you safe even during your sweatiest sessions. It is also extremely durable and keeps its shape even after intense workouts.
Accessories
This product is unique from many of its counterparts in that it comes with an easy to use foot pump as opposed to a hand held pump.
Durability
This product has been tested and rated highly for its durability. It is completely burst proof and it is also slip resistant.
Value
Even with all of its safety features, the LuxFit exercise balls is one of the highest value items on our list. The price is very affordable and it comes with an impressive two year warranty.
- Affordability
- Safety features
- Color and size options
- 2 year warranty
- Smaller than advertised
SmarterLife Exercise Ball
This exercise ball is best for beginners. The SmarterLife contains a instructional book on setup of the ball as well as a guide detailing the best ways to use it. Also included is a measuring tape to make sure the ball is the right size after inflation. These aspects make it a great ball to help people just starting out get comfortable with their new equipment.
Accessories
As mentioned above, the SmarterLife includes thorough instructions on the balls inflation and use as well as a measuring tape to guarantee the best inflation. The SmarterLife also assists with inflation by including a handy hand pump.
Durability
This ball is made of with burst proof materials designed to withstand up to 2000 pounds of weight. Buyers of the SmarterLife praise the ball for feeling strong and thick in its construction.
Value
While the SmarterLife ball performs well and sells for a reasonable price it is the small benefits that lead to its larger overall value. Its lack of plastic or synthetic odor. Its overall comfort when being used. Its non-slip material that allows you can feel stable while you exercise. All of these things raise the bar on what it means to be an excellent exercise ball, which is exactly with the SmarterLife is.
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Comfortable when used for sitting
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Non slip material
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No chemical spell
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Thick, strong construction
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Made of a non burst material
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Detailed instructions
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Affordable
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Comes with tape measure
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Air pump isn't of great quality
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No slip material can stick to and damage certain surfaces
HemingWeigh
This ball comes in a variety of sizes, ranging from 45cm-75cm, so the perfect size for each person is available.
Accessories
This set comes equipped with its own travel size air pump.
Durability
This exercise ball is proven to be anti-burst, moisture resistant, and durable. It is known as one of the most long-lasting balls out there, and most gyms and exercise facilities often choose this brand because of its' durable track record.
Value
At $20, the HemingWeigh exercise ball is just under the $30 price cap of most of the balls on our list. It is also one of the most durable and long-lasting exercise balls available--so it is well worth the price!
- Anti-burst
- Durable
- low cost
- Recommended for pregnant women
- Various sizes and color options available
- Some user report having to replace the air pump
Criteria for Choosing the Best Exercise Balls
There are hundreds of options, so how do you decide which to buy? In order to select our top 10 list, we evaluated each product based on the following criteria.
Accessories
One way that exercise balls compete with one another is through the accessories that they offer with their product. Any exercise ball worth its salt should come with its own pump. Some feature a hand pump while others offer a foot pump. Outside pumps can be used to inflate an exercise ball, but it is very handy to have one that is perfectly designed for your own unique piece of equipment. Since these tend to be lightweight and durable products, many athletes take it with them when they travel to aid them in their fitness routines. These products are great for the business person who wants to work out in their hotel room or the individual who wants to maintain their fitness regimen while on vacation. In this case, the hand or foot pump really comes in handy because they are small and travel well. In addition to the pump, some products come with an entire fitness entourage that can include DVDs, fitness guides, access to online communities, and advice from professionals and coaches.
Value
In terms of value, you can find exercise balls on our list for every budget. Our most expensive product will cost closer to $150, while our most affordable is less than $10. We also considered other details that make a product a good value like the warranty offered and the likely hood of encountering an issue with the ball.
Durability
We made sure that the products we placed on this list could withstand a variety of weight without leaking or becoming damaged. We looked for products made from durable materials and those that were burst proof, leak proof, and received high ratings from consumers.
Other Things to Consider
Fitness Level
We have exercise balls on our list for a variety of fitness levels. Some of our products are geared more toward a novice while others are better suggested for experienced individuals. If you are just beginning a workout regimen, it might be best to go with a more affordable, simpler product. If you are a veteran, you might be ready to invest in a costlier product that comes with more advanced accessories.
Style
This might sound like an inconsequential detail for some, but for others, this is a key component. Some brands come in a variety of color options while others only offer one or two. Whether you are looking to coordinate with other equipment in your home gym or selecting a ball that fits your personal taste, we have included a variety of options guaranteed to satisfy your style needs and wants.
Storage
Many exercise ball brands come in a variety of different sizes ranging from 45 centimeters all the way up to 75 centimeters. If space is at a premium in your home, you may want to look for a smaller size or look for an exercise ball that can easily be inflated and deflated. Likewise, if you are always keeping the ball inflated, you are going to want to think about where the ball can be safely stored away from small children and pets who may see this piece of exercise equipment as a fun new toy. The exercise balls on our list are not made from harmful materials, but they can still be a dangerous item for small children if they are not monitored.
FAQs
Q: Are exercise balls the same as medicine balls?
A: An exercise ball, or Swiss ball, is a large ball that is inflated with air and made of thin rubber or similar soft material. They are usually designed with some amount of flexibility, and are made for sitting, squeezing, and rolling exercises.
A medicine ball is smaller and weight, made to be tougher and meant for lifting, throwing, and catching exercises meant to emphasize strength.
Most runners would benefit more from an exercise ball, but if you are looking for something with a bit more heft then a medicine ball is a choice to consider.
Q: Are there latex-free exercise balls?
A: For allergies, we always advise to check the product materials for yourself to make sure there is nothing there that will cause an allergic reaction. That being said there are synthetic latex and latex-free options on this list that may not trigger your allergy.
Q:What’s the best pump for inflating my exercise ball?
A: While most balls do come with a pump as an accessory to the purchase, we encourage buyers to consider investing in an electric pump. Many exercise balls need a lot of air and can be difficult to fill with their thick burst proof builds; so hand pumps and foot pump can be time consuming and difficult to use. An electric pump will solve both these problems and prove to be a convenient investment for later for runners who cycle or like to travel.
Q: Are there any safety concerns I should have?
A: While most balls do come with a pump as an accessory to the purchase, we encourage buyers to consider investing in an electric pump. Many exercise balls need a lot of air and can be difficult to fill with their thick burst proof builds, so hand pumps and foot pump can be time consuming and difficult to use. An electric pump will solve both these problems and prove to be a convenient investment for later for runners who cycle or
Q: Do I need a different exercise ball for different activities?
A: One of the most appealing aspects of an exercise ball is its shear versatility. It can be used for any number of exercises. If you find something that you want to try that requires and exercise ball, go for it.
The only thing you might have to worry about is specific exercises needing different sizes of ball. In which case, most exercise balls are reasonably priced and diversifying your home equipment is its own reward.
Sources
- , Our Top 8 Stability Ball Exercises, Best of list,
- , Truth vs. Myth: Is Using an Exercise Ball to Replace Your Office Chair a Good Idea?, blog article ,
- , Do Exercise Balls Work?, Article , Jan 28, 2015
- , Best Exercise Ball Review, Aug 02, 2017
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