healthnut

Test: “3 in 1 Ball” Kit Sold at Costco for $19.99 or on Amazon for $39.99

Package Includes: 3 DVDs, a 26″ ball, resistance band, an exercise book, web for the ball

http://www.amazon.com/BALL-COMPLETE-PILATES-COLLECTION-SHIPPING/dp/1741815207/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1200717528&sr=8-3

When I first opened the package, I was delighted and like a child could not wait to try out her new toy. I immediately looked for the ball and what was big elation soon turned into a big disappointment.

First off, the kit did not include a “special” pump nor were there any indication on the outside of the box that a “pump was not included.” It was not until I read a poorly copied slip inside the box that an exercise or an air mattress pump was needed. When neither my bicycle pump nor my Aero mattress pump was able to inflate the ball, I gave up sleuthing for the pump needed.

I then proceeded to watch the videos. While these videos might be therapeutic, they were fast putting me to sleep. They were not the type of videos I would watch over and over again. They were too slow pace to get any calories burned.

And lastly, this kit was made for those between 5′ 6″ and 5′ 11″. Costco offered only one size - 65 cm. As a fyi, balls come in different sizes. You need the right size to sit on and so that you can wrap your legs appropriately around the ball.

55 cm ~ 4′11″ to 5′3″

65 cm ~ 5′4″ to 6′

75 cm ~6′1″ to 6′9″