Exercise ball Exercise ball An exercise ball, also known as a Swiss Ball, is a ball constructed of soft elastic with a diameter of approximately 35 to 85 centimeters (14 to 34 inches) and filled with air. The air pressure is changed by removing a valve stem and either filling with air or letting the ball deflate. It is most often used in physical therapy, athletic training and exercise. It can also be used for weight training. The ball, while often referred to as a Swiss ball, is also known by a number of different names, including balance ball, birth ball, body
Medicine ball whilst holding it. Some medicine balls are up to 14" wide and up to 14 lbs weight, or in the form of weighted basketballs. A med ball is used for children training as the best way to overcome fear of free weights exercises. Hippocrates is said to have stuffed animal skins for patients to toss for “medicinal” purposes. Similar large balls were used in Persia in 1705. The term "medicine ball" dates back to at least 1876, in "American Gymnasia and Academic Record", by Robert Jenkins Roberts, Jr. Medicine ball A medicine ball (also known as an exercise ball, a