Useful for everything from core exercises to leg work, a stability ball can be used for many exercises. Most stability balls arrive at your home deflated and require proper inflation before they can be used. If you've tried to inflate your stability ball and it won't say inflated or you can't get your ball to inflate, you might not be using the right process for inflation.
Inflation Devices
Using the right inflation device could mean the difference between utter frustration and an easy setup. Some stability balls come with a pump with a small pin to insert into the mouth of the ball. Others might not have the benefit of a fitted pump. You'll notice that many stability balls are inflated much like a bicycle tire, so you'll need the correct pin to inflate the ball. If your ball didn't come with one, a bicycle store should have the right fit. Your ball can also be inflated quickly at a service station air pump. Be careful not to over-inflate the ball.
Inflation Rate
Stability balls come in three basic sizes: 55 cm, 65 cm and 75 cm, although you can also purchase them in specialty sizes. Note the size of your ball to avoid over or under inflating. Your ball should be inflated to its exact size. Inflating too much could result in excess difficulty when using the ball and not inflating enough can result in a workout that is simply too easy. One way to ensure that you ball is inflated properly is to mark on a wall the height that your ball should reach during inflation.
Inflation Process
While it might seem easiest to inflate your ball and begin using it, giving your ball time to settle and adapt will result in the best inflation. SPRI products, a manufacturer of stability balls, suggests filling your ball to 50 percent capacity and allowing to sit overnight to allow the ball to settle. Then, continue inflating the rest of the way in the morning. This ensures that the ball doesn't leak air while you're using it and you get the best inflation possible.
Punctured Balls
When you're continually inflating your ball, even after inflating it properly, you could have a punctured ball. Many stability balls come with puncture kits that have an adhesive silicone patch to be placed over the hole. Exercising with a punctured ball could result in injury, so it's important that you patch the ball properly or purchase a new stability ball. You shouldn't have to inflate your ball more than once per month. If your ball won't stay inflated, it may be time to invest in a new one.
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