How to Make a Medicine Ball: 9 Steps
Introduction:
The medicine ball is a versatile and highly effective fitness tool, perfect for building core strength, improving balance, and enhancing overall coordination. You don’t need to spend a fortune on purchasing one – in fact, making a homemade medicine ball is quite simple. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 9 easy steps to create your very own medicine ball.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To make your medicine ball, you’ll need the following materials:
– An old basketball or soccer ball
– Sand or rice for filling
– A funnel
– A scale
– Strong duct tape or Gorilla tape
Step 2: Choose the Right Ball
If you’re repurposing an old sports ball, make sure it’s sturdy and without any holes or tears. A basketball or soccer ball of standard size is ideal for making a medicine ball.
Step 3: Empty the Ball
Deflate the ball by inserting a needle into the inflation valve and pressing down gently until all the air is released. This will make it easier to fill with the desired material.
Step 4: Determine Your Medicine Ball Weight
Before filling the ball, decide on its final weight. Medicine balls can range from 2 to 30 pounds, depending on your fitness level and exercise goals. To determine the appropriate weight, consider how you plan to use it during workouts. Always remember to start with a lighter weight and gradually progress as your strength increases.
Step 5: Measure the Filling Material
Using a scale, weigh out the desired amount of sand or rice that corresponds to the target weight for your medicine ball.
Step 6: Fill the Ball
Place a funnel into the inflation valve of your deflated sports ball. Carefully pour measured sand or rice into the funnel until the ball is completely filled.
Step 7: Reinflate Your Medicine Ball
After filling your ball with the desired weight, carefully reinflate it using a hand pump or air compressor. Make sure not to overinflate, as this might cause damage to your newly made medicine ball.
Step 8: Seal the Inflation Valve
Once your medicine ball is reinflated, use a small piece of duct tape to securely seal the inflation valve, making sure no sand or rice can escape.
Step 9: Reinforce Your Medicine Ball
For added durability, wrap duct tape or Gorilla tape around your entire medicine ball covering all seams and joints. This will provide additional strength and help protect the surface of your medicine ball from regular wear and tear.
Conclusion:
Now that you have created your very own medicine ball, you are ready to implement it into your workout routines. Incorporate medicine ball exercises such as core twists, Russian twists, and overhead slams for a full-body workout that’s fun and effective. With little effort and expense, enjoy reaping the many benefits that come with having a homemade medicine ball in your fitness arsenal.