Buying Guide: How to Choose a Fitness Balance Board

Step 1

For those who want to take preprioceptive exercise to the next level, fitness balance boards are certainly one of the items you need. (If you do not know what preprioceptive exercise is, check out the tip preprioceptive exercise on CampusMen.com). Preprioceptive exercises allow you to work on your coordination, your balance, your core, and your footwork. All of these are important when it comes to athletics and to living a normal, healthy lifestyle.

Step 2

Choosing a fitness board essentially comes down to the money you're willing to spend. All fitness balance boards basically do the same thing. The quality increases with price. The only exception is the Twist Board from Everlast, which approaches balance and preprioception differently from any other balance board. All in all, consider the cash you're willing to spend.

Step 3

There are different types of balance boards. Some rest flat on the floor. Others are supported by an air-filled ball.

Step 4

Some are wooden and others are made of plastic. If the balance board is made of plastic, what is the gauge or thickness?

Step 5

Consider durability. Will it break during heavy or intense use?

Step 6

Consider portability: Is it easy to carry to the gym, field, etc? Some are lightweight and others are heavy. Some are stationary and are not meant to move?

Step 7

Consider ease of cleaning and maintenance.

Step 8

Some models include accessories.

Step 9

Some come with an instruction manual or training tips.

Step 10

If it includes a warranty, how long is the warranty? Are there any fees associated with getting the item repaired or replaced?

Step 11

Consider width. Some balance boards are wider than others.

Step 12

How much weight can the item hold?

Step 13

Does the model you are considering have a non-slip surface?

Step 14

Is it adjustable?

Step 15

First off, we have SPRI's Plastic Round Wobble Balance Board. This balance board is the standard, cheap, and usable version of all balance boards on the market. Measuring 14-inches across, the balance board is easily able to fit the stance of almost any individual. The board has a non-skid base, and comes with a training manual for newbies to the balance game. This is actually the perfect balance board to buy if you're new to preprioceptive or balance exercises. It's cheap, it's easy to use, and it'll last a while, giving you ample time to decide if you want a better quality board later.

Step 16

One of the 'better boards' available is the Db6F Wooden Balance Board by Yes4All. This board is almost exactly the same as the board above, except it's made out of wood. This slight difference in quality is what makes the board cost a little more ($26.79). That being said, the quality will speak for itself. This board is exceptional for those who rarely do balance/preprioceptive exercises, but who know that they do enjoy doing those exercises when the time comes.

Step 17

The real deal balance board of the bunch is Everlast's Twist Board. This balance board is specifically built to help athletes (and weightlifters) gain muscular mass or athletic advantage. It sits flatly on the ground, eliminating any worry about breaking. The board itself twists around, giving your core a chance to work overtime and your senses a chance to approach the concept of 'balance' from an entirely new angle. This board costs $75.00, but it will be worth every cent. It'll last forever, and the job it'll do for your fitness will be well worth what you spent.