Exercise balls are also known as Swiss balls, stability balls and Pilates balls. In addition to using them for workouts, you can use them in place of office chairs to correct posture and strengthen core muscles. They're also used in physical therapy to help attain assisted stretches and therapeutic movements. Exercise balls most commonly need repair at the valve, where they sometimes leak. If you've punctured your exercise ball, replace it if you plan on using it for any weight bearing activity.
Step 1
Fix your exercise ball's valve by ordering a new valve from the manufacturer. Note what size ball you have so you can request the correct size valve. Sporting goods stores often sell replacement valves. Each manufacturer differs, so follow the instructions that come with your valve replacement kit. Replacing the valve is the only recommended form of exercise ball repair. Most valve replacements work by removing the old valve and applying a new valve with a special valve sealant.
Step 2
Repair leaks and small punctures with a ball or tire sealant. Do not use these sealants on balls that will support your entire body weight. The ball could burst at the sealed point or the sealant can come loose or fail to properly seal the hole.
Step 3
Add air to your ball if it is completely flat. Your ball must be at least partially inflated for the sealant to work. Add the sealant through the air intake valve and bounce the ball several times to disperse the sealant. Use an air pump to inflate the ball to the required inflated pressure and allow the sealant to cure, according to the product's instructions.
Step 4
Avoid using external patches on your exercise ball, like the kinds you would use with an inflatable pool or air mattress.The air pressure exerted through the hole or puncture can cause the patch to come off and cause the ball to deflate. The same holds true for applying external sealants or glues.
Tips and Warnings
- Purchase an antiburst ball to help reduce the chances that your ball will have a valve leak. These balls also have slow-release mechanisms that help the ball to slowly deflate if punctured, rather than burst at the hole. This can help prevent injury.
- Replace your ball rather than try to repair it if you will be using it for physical therapy.
Things You'll Need
- Replacement valve
- Ball sealer
- Air pump
Member Comments