Finding balance board exercises is often the first step. Choosing equipment that fits those exercises—and your home—is the next.
Some people want to practice standing balance for a few minutes. Others want to combine squats, planks, strength exercises, yoga and Pilates in the same session.
Before buying, think about how you want to train, where you will use your board and what guidance you need to get started. These five considerations can help you make your choice, with examples from B-BOARD®, our inflatable balance board for land-based workouts.
1. Start with the exercises you want to do
Picture a workout you would enjoy repeating.
Would you mainly use your board for standing balance exercises? Do you also want to place your hands, knees or forearms on it for floor exercises? Would you like to include yoga or Pilates-inspired movements?
Your answers will help you evaluate the size and shape of the training surface. A board that accommodates your feet may not provide enough room for every other position you want to explore.
Look at demonstrations showing the exercises you have in mind. Notice where the person places their hands and feet, and how much space each movement requires.
For inspiration, explore our 10 balance board exercises, including standing and floor exercises and a 20-minute B-BOARD® workout.
2. Look at how the board moves
Watch B-BOARD® in action during this guided 20-minute workout.
The movement beneath you is part of the training experience, so look beyond the appearance of the top surface.
Watch how the board responds when someone shifts their weight, lowers into a squat or moves into a plank. Check whether the manufacturer explains how to set it up and adjust the challenge.
B-BOARD® has an inflatable platform and a rounded bottom chamber. Adjusting the inflation of that bottom chamber changes how the board responds to your movement.
When getting started, follow the equipment’s setup instructions and choose movements you can control. For standing exercises, keep a stable support within reach and build confidence before progressing to more complex movements.
3. Measure your workout and storage space
Check the board’s dimensions before buying, then consider the room your body needs around it.
A standing balance hold requires a different amount of space from a plank or an exercise that extends your arms and legs. Allow room to get on and off, and keep your workout area clear.
B-BOARD® takes up about the same floor space as an exercise mat, measuring approximately 6.5 feet long and 29 inches wide (2 metres by 75 centimetres). Allow additional room around it to step on and off and move comfortably during your exercises.
Think about storage, too. Will you keep your board inflated and ready to use, or put it away after each session?
An inflatable board can be deflated for storage, but setup time should also be part of your decision. Choose an arrangement that works with your room and daily routine.
4. Compare the complete package and available guidance
Look at what comes with the equipment and what you will need to purchase separately.
Check the included accessories, setup instructions, warranty and access to guided workouts. If video access is included, find out how long it lasts.
The B-BOARD® set includes:
One inflatable B-BOARD® balance trainer.
One yoga mat.
A set of three resistance tubes.
One double-action high-pressure pump.
One repair kit.
A two-year warranty.
Fifteen days of complimentary on-demand workout access for private use.
The transport bag is available separately.
Guided sessions can help you discover different ways to use your equipment and build a routine around it. Explore our on-demand workouts and home-training options for more information about available sessions and ongoing access.
5. Choose a board that fits your routine
Bring your decision back to how you will actually use the equipment.
If your goal is standing balance practice, evaluate the board for that purpose. If you want to combine standing exercises, floor work and stretching, check that its design accommodates those positions.
B-BOARD® is designed for land-based training that can include functional fitness, strength exercises, core work, yoga, Pilates and mobility. Explore the demonstrations and exercise guide to decide whether that approach fits your goals.
The practical choice is equipment you have space for, understand how to use and can see yourself training with regularly.
Explore the complete B-BOARD® set and see what is included.
For personalized help choosing exercises and building your routine, explore personal training with Eric in Los Angeles and Santa Monica. Sessions can bring B-BOARD® training directly to your home or preferred location.