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Fitness Facility Risk Management

What Every Facility Needs To Know About Stability Balls by Gail Fast

They’re everywhere! Pictured in workouts to strengthen abdominals, improve core balance and increase functional strength, stability (or resistance) ball exercises are becoming one of the most popular fitness trends. In fact, the American Council on Exercise (ACE) predicted that in 2003, “more and more fitness classes will focus on core strength…(and that) exercise classes that use stability balls will continue to gain popularity.”

And ACE was right. Today, you will find that most fitness centers have incorporated stability ball classes into their group exercise schedule. They have also added stability ball exercises to member workouts. And, personal trainers are using them with their clients; some are even bringing their own stability balls to training appointments.

There are many benefits to a stability ball workout. Using the ball works your “foundation” or trunk in almost all exercises including those that work the extremities; you can easily position your body while on the ball for a greater range of motion than some traditional exercises; and your balance, posture and body awareness improve due to the dynamic nature of the stability ball. Exercising with a stability ball can improve your strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness. Plus, it’s fun!

But, it’s also important to remember that a stability ball is a piece of fitness equipment and should follow manufacturer guidelines for its inflation and care. If your fitness center has not established its own set of stability ball guidelines, here are some recommendations:

New balls should be inflated half way upon first inflation and inflated to proper size after waiting 24 hours. This will allow the material to stretch overnight and ensure proper inflation.
All stability balls should have the date of first use written in permanent marker around the air hole as well as a number or name in case the ball should deflate and need to be identified.
Any stability balls available for usage (by member or personal trainer) should have an anti-burst system.
A fitness ball inflation guide should be posted or accessible to members. These guides can usually be obtained through the manufacturer.
Signs should be posted to instruct members to check the stability ball for proper inflation prior to each use.
Display the manufacturer’s poster/information explaining user warnings, appropriate floor surfaces, weight limits in pounds and recommended exercises in the areas where the stability balls will be used.
Stability balls should only be used on carpet or matted surface. Areas where the stability balls are stored should be kept clear of sharp objects and space should be made to eliminate the balls from rolling out onto the floor.
Weight limits for all balls should be posted in pounds (lbs.)
A sizing chart explaining the recommended ball size according to user’s height should be posted in a clearly visible location where the balls will be used.
As with any other equipment, stability balls should be inspected regularly and removed from use if deemed to be unsafe or damaged.

As more and more fitness professionals embrace functional strength and core balance training programs, stability ball usage will continue to gain popularity. Therefore, it’s critical for fitness centers to develop guidelines to minimize any potential risks and to establish clear-cut policies and procedures for staff and members to follow.

Published with permission from:
Fitness Onsite Magazine Fall 2003

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