The TheraGear balance ball


What is a balance ball?

balance balls are large, heavy-duty inflatable balls with a diameter of 45 to 75 cm (18 to 30 inches).

All TheraGear Balls have two weight ratings:

The balance ball is also known by a number of different names, including exercise ball, Swiss ball, gym ball, Pilate’s ball, fit or fitness ball, sports ball, stability ball, therapy ball, yoga ball, body ball, or birth ball.

balance balls offer you a fun, safe and highly effective way to exercise. They will last for a very long time and are inexpensive compared to other exercise equipment.


Where did they come from?

balance balls were originally used in rehabilitation. Physical therapist and chiropractors in Switzerland used the exercise or balance ball 30 years ago. In 1989, a physical therapist named Joanne Posner-Mayer began instructing US therapists on the neurological, orthopedic and fitness applications of the balance ball. Today, athletic trainers, strength coaches, personal trainers and physical therapists use the balance ball in their fitness and rehab programs, which they have designed for their athletes, patients and the general fitness population.
 

Why should I use a balance ball?

balance balls are one of today's top fitness tools - and for good reason! Using a balance ball will improve the strength of the abs and the lower back. Since the balance ball is unstable you have to constantly adjust your balance, which in turn will improve your balance, proprioception and flexibility. As an extra challenge you can use the exercise ball as a bench using free-weights to target those hard to reach stabilizer muscles.

1.        Proper Alignment
Using the balance ball during training will utilize many additional muscles to maintain stability and balance. balance balls are less stable than traditional fitness equipment, which can greatly improve your balance, coordination and core strength. The alignment of your body is also improved when proper balance is maintained.

2.        Great Abs
An abdominal crunch on the fitness ball has been scientifically proven to work your abs better than a regular crunch. For people working out to achieve great abs, the balance ball can definitely target the abdominal areas as the abs and back muscles are simultaneously worked.

3.       Muscle Strength and Endurance
The balance ball can improve muscle strength and endurance in all of the major muscle groups. Training with the balance ball can help in alleviating back pain and preventing pain in the future. As all the major muscle groups are exercised, tone, strength and endurance are improved as well as flexibility and balance.

4.        Core Stability
balance balls are less stable than traditional fitness equipment so you can also greatly improve your balance, coordination and core strength in your abs and back.  The major muscles that help stabilize and support all of your body movements are made up of the back and the deep abdominal muscles. With the balance ball no matter how “deep” these muscles are, they are still exercised. This is something only the ball can guarantee.

5.       Stretching
The balance ball is a great tool for stretching exercises. With this, you can easily move into and move out of different stretching positions. Training with the balance ball will restore or improve your flexibility.

6.       Losing Weight
Any exercise that strengthens your muscles will help to reduce body fat. With regular exercise using the balance ball, you will also lose weight


What type of ball should I be using?

We recommend Secure Max System balls because this technology guarantees the highest standard of safety and quality.

TheraGear balance balls are made with a special material that prevents the ball from dangerously exploding if accidentally punctured. Acrylic particles allow air to release gradually so Secure Max System balls deflate slowly - and safely. (Provided Secure Max System limits are not exceeded).

The materials we use are very resistant to wear and tear, even when you use them with heavy weights. Even though Secure Max System balls don't burst, you can increase the life of your ball and reduce your risk of injury by keeping the ball away from sharp objects and surfaces.

balance ball Type Swiss Aero Ball Swiss balance ball Swiss Pro Ball
Description Ideal for Aerobic, Yoga & Stretching. Our softest and bounciest ball Great for core, resistance training & rehabilitation. This ball offers firm support Ideal for weight training.  Extra firm ball endures your toughest workout
Static Weight Limit 1100 lbs 1500 lbs 2200 lbs
Secure Max - 200 lbs 300 lbs 500 lbs
Burst Proof      

How to determine the correct balance ball size:

TheraGear Exercise  Balls
Body Height Ball Size
Up to 4’10”, 145cm 18"/45cm
4’8” to 5’5”, 146-165cm 22"/55cm
5’6” to 6’0”, 166-185cm 26"/65cm
6’0” to 6’5”, 186-195cm 30"/75cm

This chart is only a guideline. The final test for ball size is determined when you sit on the balance ball. Your buttocks should be supported by the ball at a level at or above your knee height.