Weights & Strength Training

Medicine balls and Slam balls are both types of weighted exercise equipment. They can range from 1-20kg. Exercises like squats, sit-ups, chest presses, lunges or rotational movements can all be enhanced with a weighted ball. Usually, Medicine balls are made from leather, rubber or plastic. They're designed to be used as a free weight in standard lifting exercises. They often have handles in place to make manoeuvrability easier. And they can be a great addition to improving functional movements to help prevent injury risk in sports.

In contrast, Slam balls are better suited for throwing exercises. They're made of tough rubber and extra-durable materials. They allow some bounce from hard surfaces when slammed against them. This makes them perfect for explosive, powerful movements. Slam balls can enhance cardiovascular endurance and hand-eye coordination.

This is due to the more dynamic exercises that can be performed with them. They also allow exercises to be carried out with a partner. You can do so by throwing, bouncing or rebounding the ball to each other. Like a medicine ball, slam balls can be used for a wide number of core and strength training exercises. You can incorporate the added benefit of extra upper body toning. Used mainly for throwing, the slam ball utilises fast, repetitive motions to increase coordination and balance.

Kettlebells and medicine balls are both pieces of equipment that can be used to add resistance to your workout. Kettle bells are usually made of cast iron or steel. They have a handle attached to the top whereas medicine balls are leather, rubber or plastic (with or without handles). And they're designed to be used as a free weight. Both items of equipment come in different weights. So they can both be used to add resistance to exercises like squats, lunges and rotational movements.

Often Kettle bells are more suited to swinging or ballistic exercises that involve more momentum and diversity. Medicine balls are designed to be held with both hands to enhance core stability and strength. Medicine balls are popular in team sports settings as they can be passed between partners during exercises. Kettlebells, on the other hand, are designed to provide continuous resistance throughout a movement. They target improvements in explosive power to help build muscle, improve endurance and increase flexibility.

A weightlifting belt can be worn during lifting activities to help stabilise the lower back and pelvis. This in turn reduces stress on the spine. They can also help to improve lifting biomechanics and performance. They do this by promoting muscle recruitment of the abdominal and core stabilising muscles. Lifting belts can help prevent injuries during weightlifting and powerlifting activities. They're useful for exercises like squats, cleans and deadlifts.