If you want a similar piece of equipment, take a peek at these kettlebell reviews.
1. ProsourceFit Soft Wall Ball
Check Price at Amazon
ProsourceFit Soft Wall Ball
Specifications:
- Materials: PU Leather, Rubber Pellets, PP Cotton
- Color-Coded: Yes
- Diameters Available: 14″
- Colors Available: Red, Teal, Blue, Black
- Weights Available: 6 Lbs. / 10Lbs. / 14Lbs. / 20Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Wall
- Features: Padded Exterior, Double Stitched, 2 Loops
- Warranty: Lifetime Limited
First up is a wall model from ProsourceFit that is ideal for calorie burning, toning abdominal muscles, and leveling up your upper extremities’ strength. To get a good idea of every aspect, we’ll split this review in half. One half for construction and sizing, and the other for performance.
Construction and Sizing
In order to be durable as a wall type, it has an exterior made of sweat and scratch-resistant PU leather that is squishy to the touch to be able to give in when you’re grabbing it and doing a routine. On the inside there are rubber pellets and PP cotton to fill it up for optimal impact absorption, and there’s also padding on the outer layer, since that is another element that helps during a collision with a wall. That padding is kept together by a double stitching with loops on either end, and you have the weight number and the company logo stitched on as well. Size-wise, it is 14 inches in diameter and color-coded, coming with 4 weight options:
- 6 Pounds – Red
- 10 Pounds – Teal
- 14 Pounds – Blue
- 20 Pounds – Black
Performance
As the build materials used tell us, this tool is highly resistant and can be used for various exercises like sit-ups and squats, when you keep a hold of it, wall throws and catches, either by yourself (it doesn’t bounce) or with a partner and so much more. ProsourceFit assures us that it will keep its shape and the weight pellets won’t shift during use, providing you with a qualitative experience for a very long time, seeing as it has a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- 4 Weight Options
- Color-coded
- Padded Shell
- 2 Easy-grip Loops
Cons:
- One diameter option
- Might have an unpleasant smell at first
Verdict:
The ProsourceFit sits comfortably at the top of the list because this wall throw model is made of high-quality materials, has an easy-grip, and you get weight options with different colors to distinguish them.
2. Champion Sports Rhino Elite
Check Price at Amazon
Champion Sports Rhino Elite
Specifications:
- Materials:Rubber
- Color-Coded: Yes
- Diameters Available: 8″ / 9″ / 11″
- Colors Available: Yellow, Red, Blue, Purple, Green, Orange
- Weights Available: 2Lbs. / 4Lbs. / 6 Lbs. / 12Lbs. / 15Lbs. / 18Lbs. / 20Lbs. / 25Lbs. / 30Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Medicine
- Features: Textured Surface
- Warranty: N/A
Our pick of the lot is the classic, medicine type, Champion Sports model. It has an extremely sturdy
RhinoSkin build to withstand quite the number of intense workouts without presenting any issues. The rubber layer is thick and the interior is only filled with air to provide a good shape,
proper bounce, and the same weight no matter how you hold it. Its surface is similar to that of a basketball, meaning that it is sufficiently
textured to guarantee a nice grip during workouts.
To help you have an easier time when picking an appropriate size, the Rhino Elite comes color-coded for easy recognition, with 3 different diameters to suit multiple users, and 9 weight options to continuously challenge your fitness level:
8-Inch Diameter
- 2 Pounds – Yellow
- 4 Pounds – Red
9-Inch Diameter
- 6 Pounds – Blue
- 12 Pounds – Purple
11-Inch Diameter
- 15 Pounds – Yellow
- 18 Pounds – Red
- 20 Pounds – Blue
- 25 Pounds – Green
- 30 Pounds – Orange
Pros:
- 9 Weight Options
- Textured Grip
- 3 Diameter Options
- Color-coded
Cons:
- High price for the bigger weight options
- Can bounce a bit too much
Verdict:
The Rhino Elite is a top-performing medicine model with plenty of bounce, weight options, and diameter sizes to choose from to help take your workout to the next level.
To keep on increasing your upper body strength, try using a punching bag for added resistance.
3. Prism Fitness Smart Medicine Ball
Check Price at Amazon
Prism Fitness Smart Medicine Ball
Specifications:
- Materials:Rubber
- Color-Coded: Yes
- Diameters Available: 8.5″ / 9.5″ / 10.5″
- Colors Available: Yellow, Orange, Green, Blue, Purple
- Weights Available: 4Lbs. / 6 Lbs. / 8Lbs. / 10Lbs. / 15Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Medicine
- Features: 8 Printed Exercises, Textured Surface
- Warranty: 30 Days
Moving further, another medicine model comes from Prism Fitness. With a solid,
rubber layer and a texture with a multitude of tiny rubber dots to ensure trusty control when gripped, this ball makes a good companion during core strengthening exercises and balance routines. It also has a
bounce to it for easy catching and you can employ it to support your spine during some parts of your workouts. And if you find yourself scratching your head for new ideas, all you have to do is take a look at one of the
8 exercises printed on the outside to keep on moving.
The Smart model comes with a 30-Day warranty and, for multiple muscle area engagement, it is designed with a weighted center. Variety-wise, you get 5 weight options and 3 diameter sizes:
8.5-Inch Diameter:
9.5-Inch Diameter:
- 6 Pounds – Orange
- 8 Pounds – Green
10.5-Inch Diameter:
- 10 Pounds – Blue
- 15 Pounds – Purple
Pros:
- 5 Weight Options
- 3 Diameter Options
- 8 Exercises Printed On
- Color-coded
Cons:
- Drawings could wear off after prolonged use
- Exercises might not be so easy to understand
Verdict:
For an option that not only performs well but can also inspire you when you’re fresh out of exercise ideas, go for this Prism Fitness model.
4. Champion Sports PRX Rhino Promax Elite
Check Price at Amazon
Champion Sports PRX Rhino Promax Elite
Specifications:
- Materials: Faux Leather, Sand
- Color-Coded: Yes
- Diameters Available: 12″ / 14″
- Colors Available: Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Pastel Blue, Purple, Black, Army Green, Red
- Weights Available: 6 Lbs. / 8Lbs. / 10Lbs. / 12Lbs. / 14Lbs. / 16Lbs. / 18Lbs. / 20Lbs. / 25Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Wall
- Features: Non-slip Texture, Can be Slammed
- Warranty: N/A
For a piece of equipment that can suit beginners very well, take a look at this second model from Champion Sports. It’s a wall type, so we return to the
faux leather for the exterior which is a
RhinoSkin material for easy-grip, and for the interior we’re looking at
sand filling. These two combined with a bigger,
14-inch diameter size take well to wall tosses and have a
minimal bounce for a comfortable experience. Use it to go a few notches up on your motor skills, upper body strength, muscle flexibility, and much more.
This model comes with a color code and a white part that has the weight number, model, logo, and stitching on it. The variety in weight allows you to challenge more areas than usual. And this is why we say that it is a good fit for beginners because although there are 9 weight options, they’re all within the 6 to 25-pound range:
- 6 Pounds – Orange
- 8 Pounds – Yellow
- 10 Pounds – Green
- 12 Pounds – Blue
- 14 Pounds – Pastel blue
- 16 Pounds – Purple
- 18 Pounds – Black
- 20 Pounds – Army green
- 25 Pounds – Red
Pros:
- 9 Weight Options
- 2 Diameter Options
- Color-coded
- Good for beginners
Cons:
- No easy-grip loops
- Can be too sturdy
Verdict:
For the wall throw beginners, this is a good option. Delivering 9 reasonable weight options with color-coding, 2 diameter sizes, and a hefty sand filling, you can count on it with every new exercise.
If you’re not feeling as secure as you’d like, try wearing a sports bra during your training.
5. Titan Fitness Soft Medicine Wall Ball
Check Price at Amazon
Titan Fitness Soft Medicine Wall Ball
Specifications:
- Materials: PU Leather, PP Cotton
- Color-Coded: Yes
- Diameters Available: 14″
- Colors Available: Black and Blue, Black and Purple, Black and Brown
- Weights Available: 10Lbs. / 14Lbs. / 20Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Wall
- Features: Easy Grip, Double Stitched, 2 Loops
- Warranty: 1 Year
Our last wall type model is provided by Titan Fitness. Constructed from durable,
double-stitch secured Polyurethane leather that is generously filled with
PP cotton, this
14-inch diameter workout buddy has a high impact absorbing capacity and it provides an easy,
soft surface grip. And as a bonus, for extra grip safety, on either end of the stitch, it has a small, convenient
loop through which you can fit your fingers during some exercises or with the help of which you can place it on a rack for easy storage.
The all-around balanced weight makes it perfect for most exercises, like wall tosses, squats, aerobic drills, sit-ups, throws with partners, twists, etc. You can use it to upgrade your strength level, tone your arms and legs, increase endurance, and for cardio purposes. You get a full year of warranty in case anything happens to your product during proper use, and it is available in 3 color-coded sizes:
- 10 Pounds – Black and Blue
- 14 Pounds – Black and Purple
- 20 Pounds – Black and Brown
Pros:
- 3 Weight Options
- Color-coded
- Good for CrossFit
- 2 Easy-Grip Loops
Cons:
- Not perfectly round
- One diameter option
Verdict:
This Titan Fitness model comes with a one-size-fits-all diameter, 3 weight options with individual coloring, and 2 loops for added grip convenience.
6. SPRI Xerball Dual-Grip Handle
Check Price at Amazon
SPRI Xerball Dual-Grip Handle
Specifications:
- Materials: Synthetic Rubber PVC
- Color-Coded: No
- Diameters Available: 10″
- Colors Available: Black
- Weights Available: 6Lbs. / 8Lbs. / 10Lbs. / 12Lbs. / 14Lbs. / 16Lbs. / 20Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Medicine
- Features: Dual-handle, Exercise Guide. Easy-Grip
- Warranty: 90 Days
SPRI presents us with another medicine model, but the interesting feature about this one that you can immediately notice is the presence of
two handles, similar to those of kettlebells. Those handles make the Xerball a great choice for those who are set on improving their abs because it allows for a great range of twisting exercises, either by using both hands, or only one hand. You can be 100% sure that you’ll never drop it during training. Material-wise we’re looking at a
synthetic rubber PVC build with strong surface tension and a pleasant grip texture. It
does not bounce whatsoever, so you’re going to want to skip slamming or throwing with this one in order not to void the
90-Day warranty.
Since it is a non-release, the types of exercises you’re going to be performing are more in the range of swings, twists, rotations, and similar strokes, and in the package, you are provided with an instruction sheet. There is only one color option, black, and one diameter size, 14 inches, but it is available in several weight options: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, or 20 pounds.
Pros:
- Dual Handles
- 7 Weight Options
- Exercise Guide Inclued
- Good for one hand exercises
Cons:
- Only one diameter
- Not color-coded
Verdict:
If holding onto a round shape isn’t your thing but you still want to perform ab exercises specific to this kind of product, get the Xerball dual-handle option to make your life easier.
7. Titan Fitness Rubber Tread Slam Ball
Check Price at Amazon
Titan Fitness Rubber Tread Slam Ball
Specifications:
- Materials: Rubber
- Color-Coded: No
- Diameters Available: 10″ / 11.5″ / 13″ / 14″
- Colors Available: Black
- Weights Available: 10Lbs. / 20Lbs. / 30Lbs. / 40Lbs. / 50Lbs. / 60Lbs. / 70Lbs. / 80Lbs. / 90Lbs. / 100Lbs. / 150Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Slam
- Features: Tread Pattern Surface
- Warranty: 1 Year
If you came here to find a model that is extremely suitable for slamming exercises, we’ve got good news. With a second appearance, Titan Fitness has just what you’re looking for. Their product comes with a highly durable, extra-thick
rubber outer layer for optimal resistance and heightened durability, and the material also features
embossed rubber treads to leave slipping or accidental dropping in the past. On the rubber, you also have a print of the company logo and pound indicator. This slam model is designed with
no-bounce so that you can safely throw it around without fearing that it will smack you in the face unexpectedly. So, you’re free to rid yourself of any excess energy, stress, or frustration by utilizing it to the maximum.
It’s appropriate for many types of exercises, but to name a few other than slams, there are push-ups, twists, squats, balance drills, and more. The sizes vary in diameter and weight (and every option comes in black):
10-Inch Diameter
11.5-Inch Diameter
- 30 Pounds
- 40 Pounds
- 50 Pounds
- 60 Pounds
13-Inch Diameter
14-Inch Diameter
- 90 Pounds
- 100 Pounds
- 150 Pounds
Pros:
- 11 Weight Options
- 4 Diameter Options
- Textured Grip
- No Bounce
Cons:
- Not color-coded
- A bit pricey
Verdict:
Getting a good slam model might be a little tricky because the weight has to be good, the filling has to be balanced, and the bounce has to be nonexistent. Fortunately, Titan Fitness checks all the boxes.
8. AmazonBasics Medicine Ball
Check Price at Amazon
AmazonBasics Medicine Ball
Specifications:
- Materials: Rubber
- Color-Coded: Yes
- Diameters Available: 9″
- Colors Available: Green, Yellow, Red, Blue, Orange
- Weights Available: 4Lbs. / 6Lbs. / 8Lbs. / 10Lbs. / 12Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Medicine
- Features: Textured Surface
- Warranty: 1 Year
AmazonBasics comes with a representative for the most affordable model for those who don’t have too much money to spare but are in need of a hardy, resilient option. Following the same path as the others, it boasts a durable
rubber structure with even wall thickness, hollow on the inside (
air-filled) for an equal weight regardless of what position you’re using it in, and for grip safety, the very surface layer has a
rubberized pattern to ensure you don’t drop it even when you’re drenched in sweat. On top of all this, you are receiving a
1-year warranty as well, so that you can rest assured that you’ll get a replacement if the product you buy is faulty.
Its purpose is the same as the others, as you should use it for various upper body routines, balance sessions, and hand-eye coordination movements. With this 9-inch diameter one, we’re coming back to color-coding, and so we have the following options:
- 4 Pounds – Green
- 6 Pounds – Yellow
- 8 Pounds – Red
- 10 Pounds – Blue
- 12 Pounds – Orange
Pros:
- 5 Weight Options
- Color-coded
- Textured Surface
Cons:
- One diameter option
- Might have a strong rubber smell
Verdict:
If you don’t feel like spending too much on this type of product, you can opt for this more affordable option from AmazonBasics that comes with 9 color-coded weight choices.
9. CAP Barbell Medicine Ball
Check Price at Amazon
CAP Barbell Medicine Ball
Specifications:
- Materials: Rubber
- Color-Coded: Yes
- Diameters Available: 9″
- Colors Available: Teal, Purple, Blue, Yellow, Red, Gray
- Weights Available: 2Lbs. / 4Lbs. / 6Lbs. / 8Lbs. / 10Lbs. / 12Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Medicine
- Features: Tacky Grip
- Warranty: 30 Days
The last medicine type model comes from CAP Barbell and its design resembles the tennis ball surface pattern, the difference being that on one of the shapes it’s filled with black, contoured by a silver line, and on the other, it’s filled with the
color code for the respective weight option. This small,
9-inch diameter tool is made out of
rubber, having the same
air-filled interior, and its texture is made of a multitude of tiny ridges with a
tacky grip to help you hold on to it while working out.
It’s not made for slamming, but, with the exception of the 2-pound size, they all have a good bounce so you can use them with a wall, granted you are doing the right type of exercise, or with a partner for tossing and catching. As mentioned, it has a range of 6 sizes, and the codes and weights for each are:
- 2 Pounds – Teal
- 4 Pounds – Purple
- 6 Pounds – Blue
- 8 Pounds – Yellow
- 10 Pounds – Red
- 12 Pounds – Gray
Pros:
- 6 Weight Options
- Color-coded
- Tacky Grip
Cons:
- One diameter option
- 2-Pound option doesn’t bounce
Verdict:
The CAP Barbell is another affordable option with good novice weight options and a sturdy, tacky outer layer for durability and grip.
10. Yes4all Fitness Exercise Ball
Check Price at Amazon
Yes4all Fitness Exercise Ball
Specifications:
- Materials: Polyvinyl Chloride, Iron Sand
- Color-Coded: No
- Diameters Available: 11″
- Colors Available: Black, Dynamic Black, Blue, Orange Beast, Trendy Teal
- Weights Available: 10Lbs. / 15Lbs. / 20Lbs. / 25Lbs. / 30Lbs. / 40Lbs.
- Type of Ball: Slam
- Features: Grooved and Textured Surface
- Warranty: 1 Year
Our final model is the second slam type option that we have on our list that has the perk of coming at a more affordable price. The Yes4all has an outer shell constructed from a solid
PVC layer, to
withstand up to 1000 slams without any damage and without changing its shape. The surface is packed with dozens of
rhomb-shaped elevations that cause long
grooves in which you can position your fingers as you’re holding the equipment. The inside is filled with
sand-sized iron shavings to give the product its hefty,
non-bounce weight and slam resistance.
For the duration of 1 year, you get a warranty, so you can go ahead and perform every exercise possible (and appropriate), like cross-body, throws, slams, twists, and so on without worry. Those will help with your overall health, balance, coordination, and they will help you get rid of extra stress. The Yes4all is not color-coded, but it does have color variations, namely: Black, Blue, Orange, Teal, and Dynamic Black. And weight-wise, you get:
- 10 Pounds
- 15 Pounds
- 20 Pounds
- 25 Pounds
- 30 Pounds
- 40 Pounds
Pros:
- 6 Weight Options
- 5 Color Options
- Grooved and Textured Grip
Cons:
- Not color-coded
- One diameter option
Verdict:
Heavy on the texture and heavy on the weight, the Yes4all slam model is prepared to take on the harshest of workouts or to be specific, up to 1000 slams without a scratch.
Buying Guide
As promised, we’ve reached the part where we’ll share some
tips on how to pick the right ball for your workouts. Since this piece of equipment has 3 different type options, we’ll first remind you of the features that make them
unique, those that we also mentioned in the introduction, and then move on to those that are
common.
Type
Medicine – When looking for a firm, air-filled option, this is the choice for you. It imitates a basketball, in the sense that it has the same rubber construction and tiny ridges on the surface, and the grip feels the same too. The only immediately notable differences are the weight and size. It isn’t appropriate for aggressive exercise.
Wall – For the softest option of the lot, you have this type. Usually made from a faux leather material or something similar with a recognizable stitch on the side, it comes in a bigger size and it is weighted with a heavy, but squishable filling. It can withstand a decent level of use, wall throws being its main purpose.
Slam – This is the most heavy-duty type, made from very thick rubber and filled with a good amount of sand made from iron shavings. The texture is also to the next level, with high ridges or embossed shapes to guarantee a safe grip. It’s made to withstand really intense abuse, hence its name.
Weight, Bounce, and Diameter
Medicine – You can expect the most bounce out of the 3 with this one. Even if it’s weighted, when you throw it, it will come back to you. And, even if it looks the part, don’t expect a basketball-level bounce, as it won’t go that far. The weights you can expect it to come in are anywhere between 2 and 30 pounds and the diameter range is the smallest, from 8 to 11 inches.
Wall – While it doesn’t have a bounce per se, its soft exterior allows some give at it enables the ball to come back to you, as opposed to falling straight down after contact with the wall. The weight is similar to the first one, from 6 to 25 pounds, but its diameter is the largest, between 12 and 14 inches.
Slam – For no bounce whatsoever, this one is the way to go. Designed for the harshest workouts, the slam type can absorb any impact without even the thought of shifting or moving around. You can find it in the heaviest weights, ranging from 10 up to a staggering 150 pounds, and with diameters between 10 and 14 inches.
*The numerical estimates are based solely on the specifications of the products on our list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called medicine ball?
It’s called that because the term “medicine” used to be interchangeable with the term “health”, and it was meant to say that using such a tool would promote a healthier lifestyle.
What is it good for?
It is used in various exercise routines to improve your upper body strength, increase equilibrium, and enhance hand-eye coordination.
How heavy should it be?
It is said that you should pick one proportional to your weight, but if you’re just starting out try to stay in the 2 to 10-pound range and level up accordingly.
How do you work out with it?
It depends on what type you choose. With the medicine one, you have exercises that imply holding it at all times, with the wall type you throw or toss it up against the wall, and with the slam type, you use more force with the floor impact, throw it over your shoulders, or use it as back support for other exercises.
Are medicine ball workouts good?
As long as you are aware of how to use it properly, it can help with strength enhancement in your shoulders, arms, back, and calves.
Which is better a kettlebell or a medicine ball?
It depends on what kind of exercise tools you’re accustomed to. You have plenty of weight variety with both, but with the balls, you also have the option to do throwing exercises, and while the kettlebell has handles, there is a model on our list that has them too. Calorie-wise, you can burn a similar amount using either one.
Can they build muscle?
Yes, they definitely can. The throwing or slamming actions do wonders for your arm muscles, and those exercises can also serve as anti-stress activities, allowing you to release any pent-up tension.
Conclusion
We’ve explained the difference between the different routes you can go when picking a product, mentioned some of the benefits that come with using them and showcased some of the best-rated options available.
To wrap it all up, here are some brief reminders of the models that caught our eyes the most:
Best Medicine Ball for Sale:
ProsourceFit Soft Wall Ball
The list topper from ProsourceFit has every quality you need from a wall type for a rewarding workout. It boasts a resistant polyurethane leather exterior that is soft to the touch, 2 loops for a good grip, and plenty of filling to challenge your strength. It is available in 6, 10, 14, and 20-pound weight options with respective color codes, and you can enjoy using it for a long time because even if the product you receive turns out to be faulty, you have a limited lifetime warranty to take care of it.
Editor’s Choice:
Champion Sports Rhino Elite
Our choice is represented by the Rhino Elite, which is a medicine type. This model is made of a durable rubber shell with air-filling for equal surface tension, it has a textured grip, and it comes with 3 size options and with a variety of weights that are appropriate even for beginners: 2, 4, 6, 12, 15, 18, 20, 25, or 30 pounds, all color-coded for easy spotting. It bounces back and it’s also ideal for exercises with a partner.
Best Medicine Ball for the Money:
AmazonBasics Medicine Ball
Considering its features and how affordable it is, the AmazonBasics proves to be the best price-to-quality deal, with 5 weight options that come in varied colors for an easy way to track them, a comfortable 9-inch diameter, and a textured grip to avoid any possible slipping during use. Exercise away with the knowledge that with your purchase you also get a 1-year warranty to rely on in case anything unpleasant happens.
Best Medicine Ball for Abs:
SPRI Xerball Dual-Grip Handle
An ideal option to reach for if handling a round surface is a problem for you is the SPRI model. This one comes with 7 weight options and the easiest grip of them all, namely two handles on either side. That makes it the first choice for those who want to pay extra attention to creating perfectly defined ab muscles. The no-release use makes twists and swings easier, without the added trip of getting the ball back after it slips from your grasp.
Best Medicine Ball for Slams:
Titan Fitness Rubber Tread Slam Ball
When it comes to getting a model that you can slam without a second thought, Titan Fitness has you covered. With 11 weight options available you’re in for a heavy-duty exercise that will make you break a sweat in no time. The diameter size doesn’t disappoint either, seeing as you get 4 options to pick from, and the highly textured, tread surface will guarantee a no-slip movement.