BOSU Balls

Balance, strength training and cardio in one package

Anyone who has ever tried and liked a stability ball will be impressed with the BOSU, a dome-shaped piece of equipment that allows users to perform many of the same moves with a lot less risk.
The name BOSU is an acronym for Both Sides Utilized, or Both Sides Up, and refers to the product’s construction and the fact that either side can be useful for toning and strengthening the body, as well as increasing the user’s balance, body control and core stability.

What is it?

A BOSU Balance Trainer is basically a solid circular platform with half a stability ball attached to one side. When the ball side is facing up it looks like a bubble, but turned upside down it creates a balance platform, not unlike a wobble board.



How does it work?

BOSU ball workouts target core abdominal and back muscles, as well as incorporating smaller stabilizer muscles. Depending on the exercise any one of the body’s major muscle groups may be put to use. Almost every floor or stability ball exercise becomes more challenging and beneficial when it’s performed on a BOSU ball. The body works harder to remain steady on an uneven surface - keeping muscles engaged and in constant motion.

The inventor of the BOSU created the equipment for the very purpose of safely improving his own balance and athletic prowess, but it’s also great for anyone whose fitness goals include increasing strengthening muscles or trimming inches.

Types

• BOSU Balance Trainer - The basic BOSU is 25” in diameter and up to 12” high when fully inflated. Most online retailers sell a kit that includes a hand pump and instructional DVD.
• BOSU Sport Trainer - These smaller and more portable units range from 18” to 22” in diameter and reach about 8” high when inflated.
• BOSU 3D Body Sculpting System - The balance trainer sits on a sturdy platform that’s attached to an adjustable balance bar, creating a full-body workout station.
• Dome Balls - There are a number of dome shaped fitness balls, made by companies such as Body Dome, that come with resistance bands or cords attached to the sides. It’s an easy way for some people to add intensity to their strength training routine.
  

Brands

This versatile piece of equipment is actually named after the company that makes it. Other companies make “bosu type” dome balls, which may cost the same or less and range in their durability and effectiveness. Make sure to check out each product for weight restrictions and warranty, as well as reading customer and professional reviews if you’re going for a less well-known brand.

Price

BOSU Balance Trainers and Body Dome balls are generally several times the price of a stability ball. Most cost between $60 to $200 depending on the size and what accessories are included. But it’s well worth it when you consider what you can do with a BOSU.