The medicine ball dates back to ancient Greece, where the physician Hippocrates had them sewn out of animal skins and stuffed with sand. He told patients to gently lob them back and forth as a method of preventing and recovering from certain injuries. Their association with physical therapy gave them their name.
Today you can find the heavy balls in gyms across the world.
The balls are made in a variety of sizes, from softball to basketball-sized, and can be ordered in weights from two to 35 pounds. The cost ranges from $20 to full sets for up to $300.
The advantage of using a medicine ball is that it encourages strength and explosive power, as well as lateral (side-to-side) movement.
The simplicity of the ball attracts users. No adjustments are needed. Just move with the ball — or throw it to the ground!
Try the medicine ball with lunges, jumps, and squats.