The best medicine balls make for a fantastic addition to any workout regimen. They are functional, versatile, portable, and easy to store. More importantly, these training tools are great for building power and speed with explosive movements, enhancing cardio endurance, and teaching the core to activate when engaging in functional training movements.
But because medicine balls come in all shapes, sizes, and designs, it can be overwhelming especially if you are new to using them. Do you want one that is soft, hard, rubber, with handles, without handles, with bounce, no rebound, textured, smooth, or vinyl?
We have done all the research for you on the best medicine balls on the market and used our knowledge and expertise to evaluate them for a variety of needs. Keep reading for a deep dive into the details, specs, and information you need to know before deciding on the best medicine ball for you.
Why Trust Us?
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The Best Medicine Ball - Our Top Picks
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- Best Medicine Ball Overall: Rep Fitness Medicine Balls
- Best Budget Medicine Ball: Prosourcefit Medicine Balls
- Best Medicine Ball for Crossfit: Rogue Color Medicine Balls
- Best Medicine Ball with Handles: Core Ball Plus Medicine Balls
- Best Medicine Ball Set: CanDo Firm Non-Slip Medicine Balls
- Best Medicine Ball for Beginners: TRX® XD™ KEVLAR® RUBBER MEDICINE BALL
- Best Heavy Medicine Ball: Rogue MK D-Balls
- Best Medicine Ball for Slamming: Rogue Echo Slam Balls
- Best Medicine Ball with Grip: TRX Kevlar Medicine Ball
Best Medicine Ball Overall - REP Fitness Medicine Balls
SPECS
- Size: 14" diameter
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Weight options: 4 lbs., 6 lbs., 8 lbs., 10 lbs., 12 lbs., 14 lbs., 16 lbs., 20 lbs., 25 lbs., 30 lbs.
With over 100 five-star reviews, the REP Fitness Medicine Balls are a fan favorite amongst consumers. Constructed with synthetic leather and double stitched with extra thick threading, these medicine balls are both durable and functional. Users report that even after repeated use outside, the REP medicine balls hold up. The synthetic leather is easy to grip and, thanks to the hand stuffing and double stitching, they are balanced and long-lasting.
The REP Medicine Balls are available in 10 sizes, color-coded for easy identification, and stitched REP logo and weight markings. Weights range from 4 to 30-pounds and all measure 14-inches in diameter offering consistency in how it is held/gripped. There are a few users who felt these balls had too much bounce for a medicine ball. As a side note—don't try slamming these against the ground. While they are durable, they are not designed to be a slam ball.
What We Like
- Color-coded
- 10 weight options
- Free shipping
- Grippy
- Balanced
What We Don't Like
- May be too bouncy for some
BUY: REP Fitness Medicine Balls
Best Budget Medicine Ball - Prosoucefit Medicine Balls
SPECS
- Size: 4 lbs. - 6.5" diameter; 6 lbs. - 7.6" diameter; 10 lbs. - 8.8" diameter; 12 lbs. - 9.2" diameter
- Material: Rubber
- Weight options: 4 lbs., 6 lbs., 8 lbs., 10 lbs., 12 lbs.
If you are on a budget but looking to equip your home gym space with a lighter-weight medicine ball, Prosourcefit is worth considering. Ranging from 4 to 12-pounds, these rubber balls offer a ton of versatility in training. The rubber covering means you can bounce them without sacrificing the integrity of the construction. There is a slightly bumpy texture to the rubber which prevents slipping when grabbing these with sweaty hands.
Although Prosourcefit only offers a small range of weight options, they come color-coded for easier identification. The diameter of each ball is directly relative to the weight. They generally are smaller than soft medicine balls which may take some getting used to for some.
What We Like
- Price
- Durable
- Versatile
- Good for beginners
- Stable grip
What We Don't Like
- Only goes up to 12 lbs.
- Not ideal for wall balls (because they are bouncy)
- Size may take time to get accustomed to
BUY: Prosourcefit Rubber Medicine Balls
Best Medicine Ball for CrossFit - Rogue Color Medicine Balls
SPECS
- Size: 14" diameter
- Material: Precision nylon seams, vinyl shell
- Weight options: 4 lbs., 6 lbs., 8 lbs., 10 lbs., 12 lbs., 14 lbs., 16 lbs., 18 lbs., 20 lbs., 25 lbs., 30 lbs.
The Rogue brand and CrossFit go hand-in-hand and their medicine ball in particular lends itself to a variety of CrossFit movements including medicine ball cleans, wall balls, Russian twists, or to add some weight to your GHD sit-ups. Handmade in the USA, the Rogue Medicine Balls feature a precision nylon thread seam with a moisture and scuff-resistant coated-vinyl shell that provides a good grip.
All seams are double-stitched and come with an added top stitch to balls weighing 30-pounds. The interior filling is designed to retain shape but also to allow enough give when catching or stopping the ball at a high velocity. Users report these balls to remain balanced even after excessive use.
What We Like
- Custom color selection
- Warranty
- Balanced interior filling
- Made in the USA
- Double stitched for durability
What We Don't Like
- Higher price
BUY: Rogue Color Medicine Balls
Best Medicine Ball with Handles - Core Ball Plus Medicine Balls
SPECS
- Size: 9" diameter
- Material: Hollow synthetic rubber, single-mold handles with plastic texture
- Weight options: Available in 10 weights from 6 - 30 lbs.
Taking a unique twist on the traditional medicine ball is the Power Systems CorBall Plus Medicine Ball. Available in weights ranging from 6 to 30 pounds, these balls come with dual handgrips designed to add versatility and more functional training to your workout routine with a focus on the core. Handles securely attached to the rubber medicine ball, lending themselves to abdominal and rotational movements.
Designed with a solid mold, the handles are plastic textured to provide a stable, ergonomic grip that feels natural. There are some users who complained that the finger well is too small but these reviews are few and far between. And because of the rubber construction, the CorBall does bounce if dropped but does make for a good addition to a strength training program.
What We Like
- Ergonomic handles
- Securely attached to medicine ball
- Unique design
- Color-coded
What We Don't Like
- Price
- Finger well may feel restrictive
- Somewhat limited usage
BUY: Power Systems CoreBall Medicine Ball
Best Medicine Set - CanDo Firm Non-Slip Medicine Balls
SPECS
- Size: Size of the package which measures 18" x 9"
- Material: Dry natural rubber, latex
- Weight options: 2 lbs., 4 lbs., 7 lbs., 11 lbs., and 15 lbs.
For just over $200, the CanDo Firm Non-Slip Medicine Balls set comes as a set of five balls weighing 2 to 15 pounds. Each ball features a dual-textured pattern which ensures a stable grip even when sweaty from your workout. Constructed with a dry natural rubber shell casing that is puncture and burst-resistant, these balls are described as a professional grade which means they should be able to take a beating without worrying about damage.
If you are looking for heavier weights, it is important to note that this set only goes up to 15-pounds. But, the variety in weight lends itself to different exercises particularly good for beginners. The CanDo balls do contain Latex and have a decent amount of bounce. But if you plan on using them for wall balls, be aware that they may feel different off the wall.
What We Like
- Five in a set at an affordable price
- Great for progressive training
- Versatile
- Textured for good grip
What We Don't Like
- Only goes up to 15 lbs.
- Reports of the balls deflating
BUY: CanDo Firm Non-Slip Medicine Balls
Best Medicine Ball for Beginners - TRX XD Kevlar Rubber Medicine Ball
SPECS
- Size: 14" diameter
- Material: Kevlar
- Weight options: 4 lbs., 6 lbs., 8 lbs., 10 lbs., 12 lbs., 14 lbs., 16 lbs., 18 lbs., 20 lbs., 25 lbs., 30 lbs., 35 lbs., 40 lbs., 45 lbs., 50 lbs.
The TRX brand is a known name in the world of triathlons and has recently branched out to other areas of fitness. Constructed with an ultra-durable KEVLAR coating, the TRX XD Kevlar Rubber Medicine lives up to the brand's prestigious name and exceptional quality. Designed to handle the wear and tear that comes with high-volume or long-term use, these balls are intended for both indoor and outdoor use.
The KEVLAR exterior has a slightly tacky surface which makes for better grip and control even during the most intense workouts. The TRX KEVLAR balls are available in a great range of weight options which makes them a good option for beginners. We also like that the variety of weight options allows you to start at a lighter weight and progress as your fitness abilities grow (ranging from 4 to 50-pounds).
What We Like
- Durable
- Tacky surface
- Quality construction
- Great range of weight options
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- May feel slightly off balance
BUY: TRX KEVLAR Rubber Medicine Ball
Best Heavy Medicine Ball - Rogue MK D-Balls
SPECS
- Size: 14" diameter
- Material: HD matte black shell
- Weight options: 14 lbs., 20 lbs., 30 lbs., 40 lbs., 50 lbs., 60 lbs., 70 lbs., 80 lbs., 90 lbs., 100 lbs., 150 lbs.
You really can't go wrong with a Rogue product so if you are on the hunt for some extra heavy medicine balls, the Rogue MK D-Balls are a solid choice. Available in weights from 14 to 150-pounds, the MK D-Balls are some of the heaviest ones you will find on the market.
True to the Rogue name, the MK D-Balls features some top-notch construction with a hefty HD matte black shell. According to reviews, the MK D-Balls are easy to clean, have great grip, and are durable. One thing to note—you likely do not want to use them for wall balls.
What We Like
- Weights go up to 150 lbs.
- Dead bounce
- Good grip
- Durable
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Will likely have to also pay to ship
BUY: Rogue MK D-Balls
Best Medicine Ball for Slamming - Rogue Echo Slam Balls
SPECS
- Size: 9" diameter for the 10 - 30 lbs.; 10" diameter for the 35 - 50 lbs.
- Material: Rubberized exterior shell
- Weight options: 10 lbs., 15 lbs., 20 lbs., 25 lbs., 30 lbs., 35 lbs., 40 lbs., 45 lbs., 50 lbs.
The Rogue Echo Slam Balls have snagged the top spot for the best medicine ball for slamming. Available in weight increments from 10 to 50 pounds, they are more than just a slam ball. Because of their rubberized, grip-friendly, dead-bounce design, these are versatile enough to use as wall balls and traditional medicine ball exercises in addition to those of a slam ball.
Rogue claims that the Echo Slam Balls are battle tested to withstand repeated and intense usage. However, be warned that using the Echo Balls on any abrasive surface can cause damage.
What We Like
- Dead bounce
- Grippy exterior
- Versatile
- Good warranty
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Only available in red
Best Medicine Ball with Grip - TRX Kevlar Medicine Ball
SPECS
- Size: 14" diameter
- Material: Kevlar
- Weight: 4 lbs., 6 lbs., 8 lbs., 10 lbs., 12 lbs., 14 lbs., 16 lbs., 18 lbs., 20 lbs., 25 lbs., 30 lbs., 35 lbs., 40 lbs., 45 lbs., 50 lbs.
The TRX Kevlar Medicine Ball is so well-designed that it deserved two spots on our list. We felt it was important to highlight how slightly tacky, ultra-durable KEVLAR coating creates a grip that is top-notch. Use them in the most intense workout without worrying about them slipping or, even worse, falling apart as these are built to last.
What We Like
- Remarkably durable
- Tacky surface
- Quality construction
- Great range of weight options
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- May feel slightly off balance
BUY: TRX KEVLAR Rubber Medicine Ball
What to Look for in a Medicine Ball
Size
When it comes to medicine balls, size refers to the diameter of the ball. Typically, medicine balls are designed to be about shoulder width apart measuring 12 or 14-inches in diameter. This is mostly true of the soft, vinyl medicine ball. However, medicine balls can really be found in a variety of sizes depending on their weight and design. The size is particularly important if you have specific movements you intend to use it for or if you struggle with gripping larger medicine balls.
Weight
Again, the weight you want is highly dependent on your intended use and fitness level. If you plan to use them for strength building, you will want ones that weigh more. Conversely, if you prefer to use these as part of your functional training or cardio, a lighter weight will likely be more appropriate for you.
Exercises
What is particularly awesome about medicine balls is that they lend themselves to so many exercises. From traditional movements such as squats and lunges to more explosive and dynamic movements like wall balls, squat cleans, or tosses, medicine balls add a load that impacts the intensity of the workout.
FAQs About Medicine Balls
Are medicine balls worth it?
Yes, we believe that medicine balls make for a fantastic addition to your fitness routine. They are versatile, encourage a range of dynamic training options, and can add strength to more traditional movements all while engaging the core muscles. As an added bonus, they are portable and easy to store.
What are good exercises to do with medicine balls?
There are so many good exercises to do with medicine balls. To name a few, wall balls, Russian twists, deadlifts, overhead lunges, tosses, squat cleans, and push-ups.
Do medicine balls build muscle?
Yes, medicine balls can contribute to muscle growth. By adding them to a specific exercise, they can help build muscle, power, and stamina. Depending on the weight used, they may function more as a chance to build cardio endurance but the heavier weights will also tax a variety of muscle groups.
What does slamming a medicine ball do?
Medicine ball slams are a plyometric, full-body exercise that not only gets your heart rate up but also targets muscles in your upper and lower body. With proper form, they recruit muscles from your upper back, core, biceps, glutes, quads, and hamstrings.
About the Author
Kristine has been immersed in the fitness world for nearly 20 years. She has competed in marathons and Ironman races and earned a spot to compete in the 2012 Age Group National Championship Olympic Triathlon.
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