What To Look For
Most exercise ball manufacturers publish a sizing list that correlates ball diameters, measured in centimeters, with user height. This is only a rough guideline. The best way to make sure you're getting the right size exercise ball is to sit down on it, feet flat on the floor, and check your hip and knee angles. If they're both bent at 90 degrees, the ball you're sitting on will position you appropriately for exercise.
Common Pitfalls
Exercise balls are strong--they have maximum weight limits in the hundreds, not thousands, of pounds--so it's easy to forget that they're essentially heavy-duty balloons. Accidentally rolling your exercise ball over a thumbtack is all it takes to remind you, and if you're sitting on top of the ball when it bursts, you might get hurt. Purchasing a burst-proof ball reduces this risk. Burst-proof balls aren't actually immune to punctures, but if punctured, the ball will deflate slowly instead of bursting suddenly, giving you a chance to dismount.
Where To Buy
You can buy exercise balls anywhere exercise equipment is sold, including general retailers, sporting good stores and exercise equipment retailers. You'll also find exercise balls for sale in some pharmacies. Your chances of finding high-quality, burst-proof balls in a variety of prices are best at exercise equipment retailers and pharmacies.
Cost
As of August 2010, expect to pay a minimum of $20 for a burst-proof exercise ball. In general, the larger the ball, the more it costs; an extra-large 85cm anti-burst exercise ball can cost $60 or more. Be especially careful when shopping in general retail stores; the inexpensive exercise balls you see there are usually not burst-proof.
Insider Tips
Burst-proof balls are labeled with a "burst-proof limit." The ball may have a maximum weight limit that's greater than the burst-proof limit, but if you exceed the burst-proof limit the ball may burst when punctured instead of deflating slowly. Weight limits apply to not only your body weight but any weights you're lifting while sitting or lying on the ball, too.
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