Enhance Your Next Exercise With These Medicine Balls

If you’re looking for a fun way to mix up your workout routine or break out of a rut of the same gym machines and barbell curls you’ve been doing for years, it may be time to invest in a great medicine ball or two.

These rubberized balls are weighted and have a slight bounce. They’re easier on the hands (and floors) than metal dumbbells and plates and can be used for a variety of exercises. Try slamming the balls against the wall or floor to get out some stress and work your obliques, or hold a ball during yoga for an added balance challenge. Once you have a medicine ball in your workout routine, you’ll open up a whole new — and engaging — range of activities to keep you entertained and active in the weight room.

The Best Medicine Balls

What to Consider

Before you invest in a new addition to your home gym, make sure you’re getting the right ball for your needs:

Weight

First, consider the weight of the ball. Medicine balls range from a light and bouncy 2 pounds to a hefty 100 pounds, and most users prefer a ball somewhere in the middle. Depending on your strength and how you plan to use the ball, you may want a 4- to 15-pound ball.

Heavier balls provide better stability for balance exercises, such as a plank with your hands on the ball, but will be more challenging to slam or throw. The good thing is that you can find a quality medicine ball that won’t break the bank, so you can always get a few different weights to cover your favorite exercises.

Material

Also, consider the material of your medicine ball. If grip is a challenge for you, you’ll want a ball that has some extra texture to hold onto. Or, if you prefer softer sides, look for a medicine ball with a fabric or faux-leather exterior, rather than hard rubber.

Size

Finally, medicine balls range in size, and it’s not always in accordance with how much they weigh. Some people prefer larger medicine balls for a better grip, but others find them unwieldy to work out with. Depending on your size and the size of your hands, you may choose a larger or more compact weighted ball.

We’ve found the best medicine balls to buy for every kind of athlete to help rev up your results. Here’s to knowing the secret to more efficient workout sessions!