A yoga ball, sometimes a fitness ball, is excellent for various exercises.
If you’re new to practicing yoga, you might be confused about what size yoga ball you need.
In this article, I will explore some critical information about yoga balls, including what size yoga ball you need.
Let’s get into it.
What Size Yoga Ball Do I Need?
Your height will determine the size of the yoga ball you require. Measure yourself, and:
- If you measure 5 feet tall or shorter, you will need a yoga ball 18 inches in height.
- If you are between 5 feet and 1 inch and 5 feet and 7 inches, you will need a yoga ball that is 22 inches in height.
- If you are between 5 feet 8 inches and 6 feet and 1 inch, you will need a yoga ball 26 inches in height.
- If you are 6 feet and 2 inches or taller, you will need a yoga ball that is 30 inches in height.
How Do You Choose The Right Yoga Ball?
Choosing the right yoga ball can be a confusing process for a beginner. So, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get it right!
Step One – Measure Your Height
Stand against a wall with no shoes on and your feet flat against the floor and wall. Use a pencil to mark the spot that the top of your head reaches.
If you struggle to do this on your own, get someone to help you in this step.
Using a tape measure, accurately measure your height and make a note of it.
Step Two – Choose The Yoga Ball That Fits Your Height
Use your height measurement to choose the yoga ball in an appropriate size using the guide that I mentioned above.
You should size up if you have long legs or intend to use them regularly for yoga and stretching.
It’s also important to mention that the smaller the ball, the more complex the exercise will be. Bearing this in mind, you should consider scaling the yoga ball up or down depending on your fitness level and how you intend to use yours.
Step Three – Try Several Yoga Balls Before Making Your Decision
It’s a good idea to try several yoga balls in different sizes before making your decision, so it’s best to go to the store for this process to ensure that you get the perfect yoga ball.
When choosing, make sure you sit on the ball and see if your hips and knees are bent to 90 degrees when your thighs are parallel to the floor.
Step Four – Enjoy Your Yoga Ball
Last but not least, enjoy your new yoga ball!
What Are The Benefits Associated With Using A Yoga Ball?
There are a variety of benefits associated with using a yoga ball. These benefits include but are not limited to:
Improves Balance
Using a yoga ball in your exercise routine has been known to help improve your balance, as there is a significant focus on your core.
Improves Posture
In addition to balance, it is thought that yoga balls can improve your posture as well as relieve back pain.
Great For Pregnancy
Yoga balls are also great for use during your pregnancy’s first half. Regular chairs can cause your belly bump to press on the top of your legs, resulting in discomfort as time goes on.
As you near the end of your third trimester, you might find that the yoga ball can cause your back to ache due to the lack of back support.
Tips On How To Use A Yoga Ball Safely
If you’re interested in getting a yoga ball, there are a few tips that you should bear in mind to ensure you’re as safe as possible.
These include:
Pump Up The Ball Sufficiently
You need to ensure that your ball is inflated enough to feel comfortable and like you are perched on top of it instead of sinking into it. Failure to do so can result in you hurting yourself.
Buy The Right Ball For Your Height
As I’ve already mentioned, your height, alongside the intended use of the ball, will determine the size of the ball that you require.
Be sure to measure yourself correctly, and ensure that when your feet are flat on the ground, your hips are bent to 90 degrees.
In short, you need to avoid having your knees sit higher than your hips. This will provide you with the most comfortable fit and help to ensure that you don’t injure yourself.
Don’t Use The Yoga Ball For Longer Than 2 Hours
Generally speaking, you won’t want to use your yoga ball for longer than 2 hours in one session.
This comes down to the fact that any session longer than this can cause strain on your muscles, and you could end up feeling sore if you don’t opt for shorter sessions.
That being said, you can still get a decent workout in. However, make sure you aren’t exceeding that two-hour mark!
Are Yoga Balls Expensive?
The price of yoga balls can differ depending on where you purchase the item from.
You can get a yoga ball for around 15 to $50. Be sure to buy your yoga ball from a reputable brand to ensure you get the most use out of it and that it can withstand the test of time.
After all, you want to ensure that it can retain the air inside it!
In Summary
Which size yoga ball you choose will be determined by your height.
Hopefully, this article has been helpful to you, and you now understand which size yoga ball you need and how to choose your yoga ball.
Good luck finding the perfect yoga ball for you!