Suples Ball Strength – Bulgarian Bag Alternative for Functional Training, MMA, Wrestling, Judo, Grappling & Core Workouts

I bought the 17lb ball first as I reasoned I lift free weights and I am comfortable with a 52lb kettlebell. There was a learning curve but I was improving daily but still had this hunch that this is more a speed, coordination and cardio exercise much like jumping rope where I use a light ‘speed rope’. So I gave the 17lb to a good friend and bought the 9lb ball. Much better. Speed is increasing, flow between movements is happening, less stress on shoulder joints and it’s all coming together. I love how the ball works your rotational muscles which are often neglected in most weight training exercises. I find 5-10 minutes with the ball is perfect. And it perfectly complements more lower body intensive cardio like rope jumping or cycling. As your mind is occupied with executing and transitioning the movements, it feels more like play than most cardio. The ball is also something I can put in the back of my car for vacation and use almost anywhere. Granted, I am still in the honeymoon phase but I think the suples ball is underrated and should be far more popular.

You can really notice the high quality of all the entire piece the moment you pull it out of the box. It also comes with two lengths of straps/handles, that I was unaware of and was a nice surprise. I've had a ton of fun adding this into my conditioning routines and working out the right swings and movements etc. I weight 155-160lb, and got the 13lb ball. I can't imagine much use for the lighter option, and much like with kettlebells and mace, I kinda feel like maybe I should have gone higher until I'm actually in the middle of using it. It's a really fantastic addition to any HIIT or crossfit style routines. And a must for any kind of combat sports conditioning. Does exactly what I need, is really enjoyable, and makes sure that when I'm working out in my yard no one tries to come talk to me.

The Fitball is a outstanding Fitness tool

Too heavy. Buy the lighter one

Excellent product high quality and good for high intensity workout.

I do think this is a good product- it has quality construction and I would not expect it to wear out if taken care of. Time will tell if I use it though- if you're coming from the Bulgarian Bag I think you should be familiar with many of the exercises and techniques. I had used the Bulgarian Bag exactly one time and was intrigued by it, I've been debating for months on whether I should get it- much of that delay stemmed from which one would be good for my size and fitness level. I wish the manufacturer would make some simple guidelines for each ball they offer. I know people still make decisions not based on reality but I struggled with assessing what I needed and there are very few resources to figure that information out. If that info was clearer I would have purchased long before now. In the end, I selected the Suples ball over the Bulgarian bag because that just looked like more fun- I don't even think it was on the market when I began debating a Bulgarian bag purchase. I got the 6kg ball, after watching the included video and trying some of the movements I think I would have preferred the 9lb version but frugality won out, I'm one person and don't see myself owning the entire set, which I suspect is the optimal set up. So I'm going to struggle in the beginning, but now that I have it I think the 9lb would be better to learn on and would provide a fine workout. With the 13lb bag I feel like I've been thoroughly pummeled... I'm guessing that's not the desired effect. Feeling like you were just beat up in the alley is not the work out I wanted. I know I'm doing the technique incorrectly, that's clear. They make it look super easy on the video but there's a small learning curve, after 15 minutes of trying I was definitely getting better but by that time I was exhausted and had reached my fill of being punched in the back/head/chest by this ball. Anyway, my main complaint is there needs to be more information about which ball is suited for what person. I know that's subjective but it's a starting point. Otherwise, if I keep at it, I'll most likely figure out the proper movements.

Use to work out and enjoy the 2 options of handles.

Great

Love it!

Besides the Bulgarian Bag, there is nothing in any commercial or home gym which challenges your body quite like the Suples Ball. Your entire body needs to be engaged and contribute in some fashion to each ballistic movement. The constant swinging, acceleration and deaccaleration and tightening of the core and grip will make your heart rate skyrocket in a matter of seconds. Picking a size is really up to the individual. I've had experience with sandbags, kettlebells and heavy clubs which have similar traits of ballistic movement. It's recommended to start with the 9lb but I went ahead and got the 22lb. It all depends what type of training you're accustomed to before purchasing and how much time and effort you're willing to put in. I've had it for 1 day and after a few hours of practice, I'm starting to get the hang of it yet still a bit shakey. By all means grab the 22lb if you're confident of where you're skills and adaptability are. Suples makes a quality product. Highly recommended for anyone looking to improve their conditioning and strength. EDIT: 2 weeks in and I have no regrets getting the 22lb ball. The weight feels much lighter now and the movements much more smoother. But make no mistake, this thing is a cardio beast. I've been doing 1 minute flows and my heart races as if I just sprinted. Mix this in with your lifting or set it aside for a conditioning day. Either way, prepare to step up your conditioning big time.