Gym Equipment: Medicine Ball
A Medicine Ball is a weighted ball used for strength and conditioning exercises. A Power Ball is a similar piece of equipment, usually smaller and made of rubber.
What they are made of
Medicine balls are typically made of rubber or leather, with rubber being the more common material used today. The rubber material is durable and can withstand heavy use and impact, making it ideal for exercises that involve throwing, slamming, or bouncing the ball.
Some medicine balls may also have textured or patterned surfaces for improved grip and handling during exercises.
They come in a variety of sizes and weights, typically ranging from 2-25 pounds (or the metric equivalent).
Benefits of a Medicine Ball
The benefits of using a medicine ball include:
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Versatility — Medicine balls can be used for a variety of exercises, including upper and lower body exercises, core workouts, and functional movements.
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Improving balance and coordination — The unstable nature of medicine balls can help improve balance and coordination, which can be beneficial for athletes and individuals looking to improve their overall fitness.
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Increasing power and explosiveness — Medicine ball exercises can help increase power and explosiveness, which can be beneficial for athletes in sports such as basketball, football, and soccer.
How to use a Medicine Ball
To use a medicine ball, begin by selecting the appropriate weight for your fitness level and the exercise you plan to perform. Hold the ball with both hands and perform the exercise with proper form and technique. Some exercises may require throwing or slamming the ball, while others may require holding the ball and performing traditional strength exercises such as squats or lunges.
Medicine BallsExercises Performed using a Medicine Ball
Some fitness exercises that can be done using a medicine ball include:
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Medicine ball slams - This exercise involves slamming the medicine ball on the ground with force and explosiveness, targeting the core and upper body muscles.
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Medicine ball twists - This exercise involves twisting the torso while holding a medicine ball, targeting the oblique muscles.
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Wall balls - This exercise involves throwing a medicine ball against a wall and catching it, targeting the legs, core, and upper body muscles.
We do not sell Medicine Balls from this website, though we sometimes provide links to sites where you can buy them.
Disclaimer: Individuals with pre-existing injuries or health conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before using a medicine ball or beginning any new exercise program.
Related Pages
- Medicine Ball Fitness Tests
- Medicine balls for sale
- Strength Training Equipment — list and guides
- Weight Training Exercises
- Hoover-Ball — a sport invented by President Herbert Hoover's personal White House physician in which a medicine ball is thrown about
- More fitness training products
Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.
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