Weight balls or medicine balls are dynamic fitness tools that can be used to add variety, intensity and flavour to any fitness workout. From beginners who are looking to kickstart their fitness journey to pros who want to enhance coordination and strength – a weighted ball is for everyone.
In this guide, we will make sure you get to reap all the benefits of this fitness tool. From exploring what the weighted ball is to understanding its benefits to incorporating them in your workout – we cover it all!
Weight Ball Basics
A weight ball is an exercise equipment that is used to improve stability, posture and mobility. Just as the name suggests, it is in the shape of a sphere. It is made of durable materials like leather or rubber and is filled inside. Therefore, it is nothing like a normal ball. Inside the ball, the manufacturers place an even weight.
How to Select the Best Weight/Medicine Ball
You must select the perfect weight ball for the best results and to avoid injury. The following are the 3 main factors to consider.
1. Weight
This should be the first thing you consider as it impacts both your performance level and safety.
- For beginners, always start light. Choose balls that range from 2-5 kgs. Starting light will allow you to master the grip and positions without any risk of injury.
- Once you get the hang of it and your strength increases, go ahead and add more weights. At the intermediate level, you can choose from 4-8 kgs. Now, you will still be challenging your muscles while maintaining the right form. After you are comfortable with these weights, you can progress on to anything greater than 8-10kgs.
If you don’t want to keep on buying weight balls, you can also go for adjustable weight/medicine balls. These are filled with either water or sand. You can progressively add weight to it as you feel more confident.
2. Texture
The best-weighted balls need to have a textured surface. Moreover, it should also be grippy. This is because a secure grip will ensure that the ball does not fall while you are exercising, giving you greater control. Secondly, if the grip is firm, there will be less chance of it falling during catches and throws. Lastly, a firm grip will ensure that it does not slip from sweaty hands.
If you sweat during workouts (which we all do), using weightlifting gloves will be a good idea.
3. Materials
Rubber is the most common material when it comes to the construction of these balls. It is affordable, provides an excellent grip and is affordable. Another option is to go for vinyl. These are highly budget-friendly but do not provide the grip required and are not durable. Leather is the best material when it comes to grip and luxury. But, it requires a lot of maintenance and can be costly.
Safety Tips While Using Weight/Medicine Balls
- Always start your fitness journey with a lightweight ball and increase the weights on the go. If you feel like you have become comfortable with one weight, you can increase it to the next level.
- Keep an eye on your form and posture. Alignment is critical to prevent injury in any exercise. The best way to make sure everything is in order is to go slow. Don’t rush your routine.
- Always listen to the body. If you feel any discomfort or pain, stop right there. Don’t push your body if it is in pain.
- If you have had any injury or health condition, consult a fitness expert before using these balls.
Final Words
At Fitness Depot, we work with the best materials and equipment. Our weight balls are made from high-quality rubber and come in 5 sizes: 2kg, 3kg, 5kg, 8kg and 10kg. So, there is a weight ball for everyone.