Difference Between A Medicine Ball And A Slam Ball
Medicine balls and slam balls are two popular types of exercise equipment that have been used for decades to help people build strength, endurance, and agility. While they may look similar, these two types of balls have distinct differences that can make a big impact on your workout. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between medicine balls and slam balls, and help you decide which one is best for your fitness goals.
What is a Medicine Ball?
A medicine ball is a weighted ball that can range in size from a small softball to a large beach ball. It’s typically made of leather, rubber, or vinyl and filled with sand, gel, or air. Medicine balls come in different weights, ranging from 2 to 50 pounds, and are often color-coded to indicate their weight.
Medicine balls are versatile exercise tools that can be used for a wide variety of exercises, including core exercises, upper body exercises, and lower body exercises. They can be used for throwing, catching, and carrying, and can be used alone or with a partner.
What is a Slam Ball?
A slam ball, also known as a dead ball, is a weighted ball that is specifically designed for high-intensity exercises like slamming, throwing, and catching. Unlike a medicine ball, a slam ball is usually made of a harder rubber and filled with sand or other dense materials that don’t bounce.
Slam balls typically range in weight from 10 to 50 pounds and are usually color-coded to indicate their weight. They are designed to withstand a lot of force and can be used for exercises like slams, overhead throws, and partner passes.
The Key Differences Between Medicine Balls and Slam Balls
While both medicine balls and slam balls can be used for a variety of exercises, there are several key differences between the two:
- Construction: Medicine balls are typically made of leather, rubber, or vinyl and filled with sand, while slam balls are made of a harder rubber and filled with sand or other dense materials that don’t bounce.
- Weight: Medicine balls come in a wider range of weights, from 2 to 50 pounds, while slam balls typically range from 10 to 50 pounds.
- Use: Medicine balls are more versatile and can be used for a wider variety of exercises, including core exercises, upper body exercises, and lower body exercises. Slam balls are best suited for high-intensity exercises like slams, overhead throws, and partner passes.
- Bounce: Medicine balls have a slight bounce, while slam balls don’t bounce at all.
Which One is Best for Your Fitness Goals?
Deciding which type of ball is best for you will depend on your fitness goals and the types of exercises you want to do. If you’re looking for a versatile exercise tool that can be used for a wide variety of exercises, a medicine ball is a great choice. However, if you want to focus on high-intensity exercises like slams and throws, a slam ball may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the key to getting the most out of either type of ball is to use it consistently and incorporate it into a well-rounded fitness routine.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a medicine ball or a slam ball, both types of balls are great tools for building strength, endurance, and agility. By understanding the key differences between these two types of balls, you can choose the one that’s best suited to your fitness goals and exercise preferences.