Medicine balls for strength, core and cardio training
A medicine ball adds weight to strength, core and conditioning exercises. Choose a compact medicine ball for varied movements or a larger, softer wall ball for controlled throws against a suitable wall. Explore different weights and complete sets with storage racks.
What is a medicine ball?
A medicine ball is a weighted training ball used for throwing, carrying, rotational and core exercises. Moving the weight in different directions makes it useful for dynamic workouts involving several muscle groups. Construction, diameter and bounce vary between types and models.
Medicine ball or wall ball?
A traditional medicine ball is relatively compact and easy to hold during exercises such as Russian twists, lunges, squats and partner passes. A wall ball is larger and usually has a softer exterior. It is designed for exercises where you move out of a squat, throw the ball towards a suitable wall target and catch it again.
How does a slam ball differ?
A slam ball is specifically designed for forceful throws onto a suitable floor and generally has very little bounce. Medicine balls and wall balls are intended for other exercises and are not automatically suitable for repeated hard throws onto the ground. Only use a ball explicitly designed for slams.
Which medicine ball weight do you need?
Choose a weight that lets you complete the full exercise with control while maintaining the intended speed and good technique. Lighter balls suit fast movements, partner exercises and longer sets. Heavier balls require more strength and can suit slower exercises or fewer repetitions. Beginners should start light and increase the weight gradually.
Exercises with a medicine ball
You can use a medicine ball for squats, lunges, sit-ups, Russian twists, overhead presses and controlled throws where the model permits them. Wall balls suit wall-ball shots and other exercises involving a suitable wall target. Combining different movements in a circuit lets you work on strength, coordination and fitness in the same session.
Individual medicine balls or a complete set?
An individual ball is practical when you need a particular weight or type. For gyms, personal-training studios and shared training spaces, a range of weights makes it easier to adapt exercises to each user. Sets with a matching rack keep the different weights organised and off the floor.
Training safely with medicine balls
Check the exterior and any seams before each session. Leave enough clear space for throwing and partner exercises, and agree where and when the ball will be thrown. Use suitable walls and floors, and never throw towards someone who is not ready to catch. Always follow the instructions for your model.
Looking for a ball designed for powerful floor throws? Explore our slam balls.
