Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Medicine balls are a neglected part of the fitness experience. They are more commonly seen in rehabilitation centers than mainline gyms, and perhaps for that reason they carry the taint of remedial or soft workouts. Yet, these balls offer a surprisingly tough and fatiguing upper body workout. A ten-pound ball – roughly the weight and size of a gallon of milk – is a great way to build on a strength and fitness program. Start with 100 partner throws (depending on speed of the chest-high catch and release, this may take 2 minutes), before moving up to a 5-minute continuous throwing workout. It’s an exercise that is both invigorating and eviscerating. The effort is so gradual and yet so cumulative; the fatigue sets in slowly, then all at once. Because you are pushing against the weight of the ball, then launching it through the air (or letting go in passing drills), the workout is completely different from pumping iron or other fixed upper-body workouts like chin ups. The best comparison for me is training on a speed bag in boxing. I love medicine ball workouts. They take up little space and can be used in a variety of standing and floor positions in both solo and partner workouts. And honestly, working out with a ball – even a 10-pound one – is fun. AmazonBasics brand medicine ball is a solidly crafted piece of equipment with two-tone coloring, a pebbly, rubberized basketball-sized grip, and dense feel. Highly recommend buying several sizes in this line for your home-based gym. NOTE: When throwing this ball, I suggest padded cycling gloves for comfort.