ProSpirit fitness balls are large, inflatable balls that are used as exercise tools, as seats and even for postural support during childbirth. The balls are available in a variety of colors, sizes and even shapes; some are oblong and some have massage tips. You may have seen these stability balls at a health club, or may have one at home, and know that they can provide an effective workout. A safe workout is a concern, as some of the balls have burst, leaving participants with a sore behind, or bruises on legs and cheeks.
Burst Resistant
If a burst-resistant exercise ball gets punctured or splits, the ball should slowly deflate instead of quickly explode. This is an ideal safety feature, especially if you are sitting and bouncing on the ball. The additional force of your weight coming down onto the ball will equal a hard landing if the ball explodes beneath you. If you are bouncing and feel the ball slowly deflating, you will be able to remove yourself from the surface before an injury may occur.
ProSpirit
HGTV lists ProSpirit's fitness ball as made of black PVC. ProSpirit's ball is commercial-quality, which means it can be used throughout the day by many people and avoid showing signs of wear and tear. An Internet search of ProSpirit's fitness balls does not find any reference to the balls being burst resistant. The ProSpirit packaging says to check ball for cracks or tears before use.
Used
When purchasing any Prospirit exercise ball, purchase a new, in the box, one sold at a reliable retailer ball. This is not a purchase to save money through online bidding or at your local garage sale. Your safety is at risk when you purchase a used stability ball as you do not know if the ball has been used outside or on a rough surface, causing micro tears in it the surface.
Cautions
ABC News reports that 3 million exercise balls were recalled in April 2009 for bursting. The balls were EB brands and were labeled as "burst resistant." Use caution and follow proper inflation instructions even if your ball has a burst-resistant label. If your ball is years old and has areas of wear and tear, you are encouraged to purchase a new ball for safety reasons.
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