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Best Yoga Balls in 2024 Reviewed and Rated

last updated: Jan 07, 2021

Yoga and Pilates are two of the most popular and successful methods of exercise that you can do at home. An exercise ball can take your yoga and pilates workouts to the next level by improving your balance, core activation, and stability on every move. Choosing the right ball is a key part of getting the most from your sessions. In this article, we present the 10 best fitness balls for yoga and pilates. Be sure to check out all the great information about the best yoga and pilates balls we have here for you!

In a Hurry? The test winner after 10 hours of research

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Gaiam
97.2/100 our score
Use
98
Effectiveness
97
Size
98
Durability
96
Features
97
Gaiam
Why is it better?

Anti-burst

Free Pump

Training DVD

75 cm

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Researched Sources
36
Researched Sources
Reviews Considered
12.5k
Reviews Considered
Hours Researching
10
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
12
Products Evaluated
Sorting Options
Use Effectiveness Size Durability Features By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97.2
Use
98 %
Effectiveness
97 %
Size
98 %
Durability
96 %
Features
97 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$24.98
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95.2
Use
95 %
Effectiveness
96 %
Size
95 %
Durability
96 %
Features
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$15.00
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.4
Use
91 %
Effectiveness
92 %
Size
92 %
Durability
92 %
Features
90 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$56.45
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.4
Use
88 %
Effectiveness
89 %
Size
87 %
Durability
89 %
Features
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$14.66
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.4
Use
88 %
Effectiveness
88 %
Size
87 %
Durability
87 %
Features
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$18.99
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87
Use
86 %
Effectiveness
87 %
Size
87 %
Durability
88 %
Features
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$17.99
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.6
Use
84 %
Effectiveness
84 %
Size
83 %
Durability
85 %
Features
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81
Use
82 %
Effectiveness
82 %
Size
81 %
Durability
80 %
Features
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$9.95
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
79.8
Use
80 %
Effectiveness
80 %
Size
79 %
Durability
79 %
Features
81 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$14.18
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
78.2
Use
79 %
Effectiveness
79 %
Size
77 %
Durability
78 %
Features
78 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (08.12.24)
Amazon Link
$27.97

10 Best Yoga Balls

1. Gaiam

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97.2
Gaiam yoga ball
Amazon Link
Use
98
Effectiveness
97
Size
98
Durability
96
Features
97
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$24.98
Pros:

Anti-burst

Free Pump

Training DVD

75 cm

Cons:

Chemical Odor

The Gaiam Yoga Ball is a high-quality anti-burst balance ball that comes in small, medium, and large sizes. With a weight capacity of 300 pounds, this ball is an ideal choice for all of your pilates and yoga requirements. Your kit includes a balance ball, easy inflation pump, and a total body workout DVD.

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The Gaiam yoga ball is made from a flexible rubber. It inflates high-quality with the pump supplied, giving you a firm surface to work from. The DVD that comes with this ball feature celebrity trainer Tanja Djelevic, who takes you through a complete head to toe workout. This low impact ball is designed for all skill levels. The Gaiam pilates ball comes with a 12-month warranty.

2. Stott Pilates Mini

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95.2
Stott Pilates Mini ball
Amazon Link
Use
95
Effectiveness
96
Size
95
Durability
96
Features
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$15.00
Pros:

Mini Versatile Size

Lightweight And Portable

3 Size Options

Phthalate-Free

Cons:

No DVD

The Stott Pilates Mini Stability Ball is a nontoxic PVC ball that is anti-burst and moisture resistant. It is available in 3 sizes; 7.5, 10 and 12 inches. These smaller sizes make this yoga ball ideal for many intricate pilates and yoga moves for which a standard sized ball would be inappropriate. This pilates ball is incredibly lightweight and portable, allowing you to take it anywhere.

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The Stott Pilates Mini Stability Ball comes with a straw to allow for anti-burst inflation. The Ball PVC exterior has a non-toxic grip surface. This pilates ball holds its air well and will retain its shape for a long time. This is a great choice for doing stabilized crunches with the ball between your knees.

3. Everlast Pilates Inflatable

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.4
Everlast Pilates Inflatable ball
Amazon Link
Use
91
Effectiveness
92
Size
92
Durability
92
Features
90
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$56.45
Pros:

Burst Resistant

Rugged PVC Shell

12-Month Warranty

Slow Deflate

Cons:

No Pump Or DVD

The Everlast Pilates Inflatable Ball is a burst-resistant ball that allows you to perform your pilates and yoga workouts extremely effectively. If punctured, the ball will slowly deflate, providing a safety measure for you. It is a very durable ball. It has a PVC outer that is quite rugged, withstanding minor sharp edges. The ball inflates well and retains it’s air well.

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The Everlast Pilates Inflatable Yoga Ball is ideal for working your core. It has the right level of grip and is easy to handle. Fusion workouts that combine Pilates, yoga, and circuit training are an excellent fit for this ball. The ball comes with a 12-month warranty.

4. Theraband Pilates

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.4
Theraband Pilates ball
Amazon Link
Use
88
Effectiveness
89
Size
87
Durability
89
Features
89
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$14.66
Pros:

Anti-Burst

Ribbed Outer Shell

Exercise Chart

Easy To Clean

Cons:

Not For Tall People

The Theraband pilates ball is an anti-burst ball that slowly deflates if it gets a hole. It protects you from injury while training. The ball is ribbed to allow you to get a good grip and handle it more easily. It is also ergonomically designed to improve stability at key contact points with the body.

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It makes the Theraband a great choice if you have any pain. The Theraband pilates ball is very easy to clean. It comes deflated, along with a pair of plugs, and an inflation adaptor. You also get a large full-color exercise chart to show you how to perform critical exercises. The ball is 55cm (22 inches) in diameter, being suitable for people between 5’ 1” and 5’6”.

5. Black Mountain Stability

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.4
Black Mountain Stability ball
Amazon Link
Use
88
Effectiveness
88
Size
87
Durability
87
Features
87
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$18.99
Pros:

Rated To 2000 Pounds

Dense Outer Walls

Foot Pump Included

Starter Brochure

Cons:

Strong Odor

The Black Mountain Stability Ball is a heavy-duty, pro-rated ball. It is rugged enough for your toughest yoga or pilates session, being rated to 2000 pounds. The tough outer core means that this ball will retain both its inflation level and its shape over the long term.s The solid walls of this unit are built for ultimate durability and support.

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When you buy the Black Mountain Stability Ball, you also get easy to use foot pump which allows you to inflate your ball quicker and more efficiently. You also get a great starter guide that will answer all your questions and get you started on your training program. It also comes with a 12-month warranty.

6. URBNFit Yoga

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87
URBNFit Yoga ball
Amazon Link
Use
86
Effectiveness
87
Size
87
Durability
88
Features
87
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$17.99
Pros:

Quality PVC Construction

2000 Pounds Rating

6 Color Options

Dual-Action Pump

Cons:

Deflates Over Time

The URBNFit Yoga Ball is constructed from professional quality PVC. It provides you with a very heavy walled ball that is burst resistant. It will deflate slowly to protect you if it collapses while you’re using it. This ball is rated to 2000 pounds. It will easily handle the toughest pilates or yoga workout that you can throw at it.

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The URBNFit Yoga Ball is a high grip and has a non-slip surface that makes it easy for you to use it. It makes it ideal for exercises that involve gripping the ball with your feet or legs. Your purchase includes a workout guide, extra plugs for inflation, and a pump. This ball comes in 6 color options.

7. RGGD&RGGL Yoga

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.6
RGGD&RGGL Yoga ball
Amazon Link
Use
84
Effectiveness
84
Size
83
Durability
85
Features
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Resistance Bands

Stability Ring

Withstands 2200 Pounds

Cleaning Pad

Cons:

Ring Can Leak Air

The RGGD&RGGL Yoga Ball is a heavy-duty exercise ball with an inflatable stability base and resistance bands attached. It makes it an excellent complement for your pilates or yoga workout. The resistance bands can be adjusted to your required length, enabling you to keep constant tension on the working muscle group.

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They are also detachable, so can be used on their own. The RGGD&RGGL Yoga Ball with resistance tubing is rated to 2200 pounds. It is anti-burst, providing you with total safety while you are working out. The outer surface is also nonsticky, meaning that it won’t attract hair and other debris. The resistance bands have cushioned handles for extra comfort, and the stability ring keeps the ball firmly in place. A ball cleaning pad makes taking care of this ball a breeze!

8. ProBody Pilates Mini Yoga

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81
ProBody Pilates Mini Yoga ball
Amazon Link
Use
82
Effectiveness
82
Size
81
Durability
80
Features
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$9.95
Pros:

Mini Size

Soft Low-Odor PVC

Plenty Of Color Choices

Exercise Chart

Cons:

Burns Off Wood

The ProBody Pilates Miniball has been specifically designed to be used with your pilates, yoga, and core training workout. It is made from a soft PVC material that doesn’t contain any of the harmful chemicals that you find in lesser models.

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That makes this ball entirely environmentally friendly and safe to use around children. This weighted pilates ball is burst-resistant, giving you total confidence that it won’t suddenly deflate on you. The ProBody Pilates Miniball is just the right size for performing exercises involving the legs and the ball.

9. Tone Fitness Stability

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
79.8
Tone Fitness Stability ball
Amazon Link
Use
80
Effectiveness
80
Size
79
Durability
79
Features
81
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$14.18
Pros:

Anti-burst

12-Month Warranty

Durable Outer Shell

Exercise Chart And DVD

Cons:

Strong Odor

The Tone Fitness Stability Ball is a functional fitness ball that is perfect for yoga, pilates, and fusion workouts. It is an anti-burst ball, making it entirely safe for use as you work out. A durable outer shell gives you confidence that minor sharp objects won’t cause a hole in the ball.

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The strength of the walls ensures that air will not escape and that the ball retains its inflation level. The Tone Fitness Stability Ball comes with a quality pump to help you to inflate it quickly. You have a choice of six colors. This ball is ideal for weight training as well as yoga and pilates. It comes with a 12-month warranty.

10. SmarterLife Yoga

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
78.2
SmarterLife Yoga ball
Amazon Link
Use
79
Effectiveness
79
Size
77
Durability
78
Features
78
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$27.97
Pros:

Retains Shape

Even Thickness

Range Of Colors And Sizes

Ultra-High Anti-Burst Rating

Cons:

Size Chart Is Off

This yoga ball from SmarterLife Products has an ultra-high anti-burst rating of an amazing 2000 pounds! It is more than enough to keep you safe, even when you exercise with added weight. It is also slow deflating, so don't worry about it exploding like a balloon if you puncture it accidentally.

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The surface is matte and anti-slip, so you can safely grip it and roll around on it without falling over. The surface is also hypoallergenic. The ball is evenly thick all around, and it will retain its shape no matter how much you abuse it. You have a big range of size and color choices, and you will definitely find just what you're looking for with this ball!

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Use

We've all played with balls when we were kids, so how hard can using these balls be? Well, if you're a beginner, it can be challenging, especially when you use it for yoga or Pilates. We will describe some basic ways you can use these balls for yoga and Pilates!

If you're tired of your plain old yoga or Pilates routine, adding a ball can spice things up, but it's essential you know what you're doing before you attempt to use one. By using these balls, you will challenge your body once more to find a different way to utilize the muscles that work to balance and stabilize you - your core. If your balance is not so good, believe us when we say that this ball will be very challenging! One thing you can try doing is rolling squats with a ball. Stand with your feet the same distance as your hips are. Place the ball in front of you. Do a regular squat, but place your hands on the ball. Now as you keep your back straight and your knees behind your toes, roll the ball out as far away as you can, and stretch those muscles out! When you start to roll the ball back, inhale and remember to keep your knees straight.

You can also try doing upward and downward facing dog with the help of a Swiss ball. Place the ball on your exercise mat, and fall down to your knees and palms. Place your torso on the ball, and roll forward until your hips are on it. Keep your legs straight behind you. Push the ball in with your hands, and extend your chest up as you inhale, stretching out. Exhale and now roll the ball back until your body stands in an inverted V pose. Keep your arms and legs straight! You can try positioning the ball so that it supports your chest and thighs. If it can't, you might benefit from a larger ball. Inhale and roll back into an upward facing dog, and do this about 10 times. These are just some basic exercises you can try, but we are sure that you will find many more ways to use the pilates & yoga ball!

Effectiveness

Yoga and pilates are quite effective ways to exercise on their own, so can adding a ball into your routine actually be effective? Just one silly ball can greatly challenge your core and supporting muscles. The ball will allow you to stretch out your spine in ways you never knew were possible, and it will make it even stronger than it was before. This is the very reason why these balls are used commonly for physiotherapy and rehabilitation. A lot of people complain of back pain, and the ball gives them an easy way to stretch out and relieve that pain.

The yoga ball will make your core even stronger and more supportive as we mentioned before. It's very important that your core remains strong - after all, you use your core every day when you walk, run, lift objects, or simply move in more challenging ways. A weak core is a recipe for an aching back and injuries, so make sure to keep your core strong, and a pilates and yoga ball is just the way to do that. Also, a stronger core means better posture, and we all like having good posture! Good posture then invites a great sense of balance, while your pelvic floor muscles also get stronger. Yoga and Pilates tone your whole body, but the balls will mostly focus on your core and back muscles, and it will keep you well balanced. Add the ball to your routine to experience maximum core and back strength!

Size

Size really does matter here, and if you go for a ball that is not the right size for your height, you might end up in more pain than you started with. The taller you are, the bigger the ball needs to be, and if you're on the shorter side you will need a smaller ball. The mini pilates balls are also great, but you won't be able to sit on them, and they work better when you need to lift the ball around and use your hands to control it. A ball that is off will not allow you to practice proper posture, which is very important for both yoga and Pilates.

If your height doesn't go over five feet, you are going to be needing an extra small ball, one that does not exceed 45 cm when fully inflated. If you have children who want to try what you're doing, a ball this size is also what will suit them well. If your height does not go over 5'8", a small ball will work wonders for you. A ball bigger than that won't allow you to keep your knees at a 90-degree angle, nor will you be able to comfortably use it. If you are not taller than 6'2", go for a medium ball. A ball slightly bigger than this might be a good choice for you if your legs are really long, or if you have some back issues. If you are taller than 6'3". go for a super big ball, one that has a diameter of 75cm or more! And if you feel like you need the biggest ball you can get, aim for the ones that have an 85 cm diameter.

Durability

Yoga and Pilates balls are going to be squeezed, thrown, sat on and much more, so they need to be able to withstand a lot of abuse. How long your ball will last can be affected by many things, namely the materials they are made out of, your weight, and its anti-burst rating.

The anti-burst rating of the ball is what matters the most when it comes to the durability of it. Anti-burst material keeps your ball safe from popping like a balloon if the weight limit is reached. If it instead just exploded, you might fall off from it and hurt yourself, and it may even scare you! The best option you can aim for is a ball that has an anti-burst rating of 1000 pounds or more. This rating ensures that you can safely use some weights while working with it. Some balls have both static and dynamic anti-burst ratings. These ratings tell you how much weight a ball can support when you're just sitting on it, as opposed to when you're loaded up with weights and moving around and bouncing. But even the balls with the highest anti-burst rating can deflate if you do not care for them well, so make sure to do so properly!

Features

And last but not least, the features of your Yoga & Pilates ball. Believe it or not, a simple ball can have many features that come along with it, and you will actually benefit more if it has plenty of them!

The very first difference from ball to the ball is the texture of them Some balls are smooth and shiny. These balls are great to look at and are easy to clean, but they can be very slippery if your hands and other body parts get sweaty, so make sure that you are dry before you go to use them. Other balls can have a matte surface, with dimples or ridges. This makes them anti-slip and very grippy, so you can safely grab them and sit on them without them rolling and running away from you. The first feature to look out for is the texture of the ball. The texture of the ball combined with the texture of your floor is also something to be wary of. Some balls come with exercise charts and handy DVDs that tell you how to begin using them, which is actually quite handy if you're just starting out with using them. Sometimes, resistance balls and inflatable rings come as a whole package with the ball. These rings keep the ball from rolling away when you sit on them or place your feet and torso on them. The resistance bands can be attached to the balls, usually with carabiners, and then you can add a whole new dimension of working our with these balls! Some balls also come with freehand or foot pumps. Do not worry if your ball didn't come with one - you can simply inflate it with a regular air pump, but it's very convenient when you already have the pump there!

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Brief History

The very first appearance of these balls was in Italy, and they were invented by an Italian plastic manufacturer. Pilates balls were first known as Pezzi balls, and one swiss doctor recognized their potential for rehabbing infants and babies, hence the name swiss ball we're all familiar with. Later on, they started using this ball as a tool for physiotherapy and neuro-development, and once people recognized their potential for fitness, their popularity steadily grew and now we can't see a gym without one!

Safety Hazards

You must know how to use the stability ball properly because otherwise, you can actually hurt yourself quite a bit, either by falling down or by puncturing the ball. Make sure that your ball is not overly inflated because this can make it even harder to use. A ball that is not inflated enough can also be problematic, so pay attention to both of these issues. Do not use particularly heavyweights or kettlebells when sitting on these balls, because the extra pressure concentrated on only one point can make the balls burst quite quickly, even if the anti-burst rating is high! Keep the floor you workout on clean and free of any sharp objects, because you don't want to puncture your ball before you even get to use it.

Other Factors to Consider

Bottom Line

Our favorite yoga and pilates ball is the Gaiam Yoga ball, with its strong construction, excellent grip ability and training DVD. We also loved the Stott Pilates Mini Ball, which is just the right size for pilates and yoga applications.

Our third best pilates ball is the Everlast pilates ball, which provides a strong outer wall, is able to retain its inflation and comes with a 12-month warranty. Read our review of the best medicine balls on the 2019 market. We hope our guide has been helpful to you, and that you have found what you were looking for!

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Do I need a ball to practioce yoga or pilates?

a:

Well, not really. But the same routine over and over again can become very bland, and you might want to add some spice into your fitness life. This is where the Yoga & Pilates balls can be very helpful. Plus, they will challenge you on more levels than you ever knew, believe it or not. Your core will end up even stronger, you will be more balanced, and of course, you will have even more fun when you work out, and keeping the mind engaged is just as important as staying fit!

q: How big should my stability ball be?

a:

The size of your yoga ball varies, just like the height of people varies. The taller a person is, the bigger the ball needs to be, and vice versa. If you have no idea how to choose the right size of ball, all you need to do is figure out how tall you are, and then choose the right size according to that. A ball that is not big or small enough for you can be very problematic, because you won't be able to9 maintain proper form when working out, which is a surefire way to get injured!

q: Do I need to care for my yoga ball?

a:

Of course, you do, just like you need to care for every other piece of equipment out there! Sweat can cause a lot of issues - it can eat your ball, it can cause bacteria to grow on the surface, and it can just smell really bad. Wipe down the ball after every use to avoid these issues. Make sure to keep sharp objects away from your ball as well! You don't want to send it to an early death because you weren't paying attention. And if you have any pets, keep them away.

q: Is there a correct way to inflate the ball?

a:

Every ball mentioned here, well, almost every ball, will come with a free air pump. Do not worry if you do not get one though, because you can use literally any air pump to blow up the ball. The ball must be inflated in a room that is not colder than 20 degrees Celsius - this is the first rule you have to follow. And when you first inflate the ball, inflate it 80% of its potential. Then you must wait about 24 hours before you fill-up the rest with air. Do not over-inflate! Make sure that the diameter is the one listed on the package. You don't want to underinflate your ball either.

q: Is there a right way to sit on the Pilates ball?

a:

If the Pilates & Yoga ball is big enough to sit on it, you then may do this to improve your balance, but there are some,e rules you must adhere to. Sit on the center of the ball, avoid sitting on the edges. It will be hard to maintain balance this way, but you must do it. Sit with your back straight, and keep your knees at a 90-degree angle, while keeping your ankles in line with them. Do not lean in any direction, and if you find any of these things hard to do, the ball size might be the problem here, and you should change it immediately!

Sources