Stay safe by:
• Skipping kettle bells, discs or other weights that don’t have a handle or can’t be attached around the wrists or ankles. “They’re hard for most people to grip, and it can be especially difficult to maintain proper form while using them, which increases the risk of injury,” says Lewis.
Exercise Ball
Look for:
• A high-quality ball made of thick rubber or plastic. “If you’re purchasing one for your home, make sure it’s manufactured by a reputable fitness company,” says Florez. “Cheap balls have been known to pop while people are using them, which can lead to serious injury.”
• The right size ball. As a guideline, people between 5 feet and 5 feet 6 inches should choose a 55 cm ball; those between 5 feet 7 inches and 6 feet 1 inch should choose a 65 cm; and those 6 feet 2 inches and taller, should choose a 75 cm ball. When you sit on the ball, your hips should be slightly higher than your knees, says Lewis.
Stay safe by:
• Getting help from a physical therapist or trainer the first several times you use an exercise ball. “Even sitting on an exercise balls require a great deal of balance, as well as full mobility in your knees,” says Doyle.
