Home Balance Equipment What Are The Best Balance Boards in the UK, In 2022?

What Are The Best Balance Boards in the UK, In 2022?

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Knowing which balance board to buy online should be an easy affair, but it’s one bit of training equipment that has an unusual number of variations.

In this product round-up, we’re looking at the best balance boards you can buy in 2025 in the UK. We’ll cover what we found were the top balance trainers and help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you. Unlike other product guides, it’s more a question of which wobble board is right for you as they offer something slightly different.

Best Overall
"Strengthens core muscles and improves balance, perfect for rehabilitation and fitness users."
  1. Board type: Level 5
  2. Materials: Rubber
  3. Accessories: Workout DVD, Tri-Lingual Owner's Manual, Pump
  4. Dimensions: 65L x 65W x 25.4H centimeters
Check Price
Amazon UK
Runner Up
"Enhances balance and coordination with quality build, praised for durability and versatility in exercises."
  1. Board type: Balance Board
  2. Materials: Wood
  3. Accessories: 2 Removable Stoppers
  4. Dimensions: Length 75.01 cm, Width 28.5 cm, Height 13 cm
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Improves balance and core strength with high-quality build, perfect for varied exercises."
  1. Board type: Surf Board
  2. Materials: Wood
  3. Accessories: Board, Roller
  4. Dimensions: 75L x 28.5W x 13H cm
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Enhances core strength and stability with high-quality durable wood construction."
  1. Board type: Balance board
  2. Materials: Wood
  3. Accessories: 1 x cork roll, 1 x wooden holder
  4. Dimensions: 78 x 30 x 15 cm; 5kg
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Strengthens core muscles while enhancing balance and reflexes, ideal for board sports users."
  1. Board type: Multi-discipline trainer
  2. Materials: Handcrafted 11-ply real wood anti-slip deck construction
  3. Accessories: None
  4. Dimensions: Length: 74 cm, Width: 28 cm, Roller Length: 55 cm, Roller Diameter: 10 cm
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Amazon UK
"Effective core training and engaging workouts with high-quality build."
  1. Board type: Large CoolBoard
  2. Materials: Wood
  3. Accessories: Large CoolBoard, Standard Speed Ball, Workout
  4. Dimensions: 70cm x 36cm x 2.5cm
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Improves posture and core strength with adjustable levels suitable for all fitness capabilities."
  1. Board type: Balance trainer
  2. Materials: Bamboo, Plywood, Molded Nylon
  3. Accessories: Bamboo/plywood balance rocker board, three balance modules
  4. Dimensions: 63.5 cm (length) x 31.1 cm (width) x 15.2 cm (height)
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Amazon UK
"Boosts core strength and balance, suitable for diverse sports training."
  1. Board type: Balance board
  2. Materials: Birch Wood
  3. Accessories: 1 reel, 1 ball
  4. Dimensions: Length: 38 cm, Width: 11 cm, Height: 45 cm, Weight: 5.4kg
Check Price
Amazon UK

So what do we look for when picking the ‘best’ balance boards out there for sale? Here’s our list, which might help you on your quest for that perfect board.

  1. Material Quality: Choose boards made from durable materials like high-grade wood or tough plastics. The materials should withstand heavy use and resist wear and tear.
  2. Safety Features: Look for non-slip surfaces and grip patterns that enhance stability. Rounded edges and smooth finishes can prevent injuries.
  3. Size and Shape: The board should be appropriately sized for the user, with enough surface area for comfortable footing. Different shapes (e.g., round, square, wobble) cater to various exercises and skill levels.
  4. Weight Capacity: Ensure the board can support the user’s weight, with a significant margin for safety and longevity.
  5. Versatility: Some boards are designed for specific activities like surfing or snowboarding simulation. Others are more versatile and suitable for general fitness, rehab and balance training.
  6. Portability: Lightweight and compact designs are preferable for easy storage and transportation.
  7. Stability and Responsiveness: The board should offer a balance between stability for beginners and responsiveness for advanced users.
  8. Adjustability: Features like adjustable bases or removable components can increase the difficulty level as skills improve.
  9. Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands and read user reviews for insights on durability, performance and customer service.
  10. Warranty and Customer Service: A good warranty and responsive customer service indicate manufacturer confidence and customer support.
  11. Price: Compare prices to find a board that offers good value for money, balancing cost with quality and features.
  12. Aesthetic Appeal: While not a performance factor, an attractive design can be a bonus.
  13. Environmental Impact: Consider eco-friendly options, like boards made from sustainable materials or with environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.
  14. Certifications: Look for certifications or endorsements from relevant sporting or health organizations, ensuring quality and safety standards.
  15. Accessories: Some balance boards come with accessories like mats, DVDs, or mobile apps and other goodies which can enhance the training experience.
How we test and rank products. We like to think our methodology for evaluating and ranking products is one of the best in the industry. Our approach to identifying the top products in a specific category such as 'Best Balance Boards' begins with establishing key performance indicators like customer reviews, price, and durability. We then meticulously compile our product roundup, focusing on how each item aligns with the user's needs. To ensure absolute impartiality, our final rankings are determined by an AI algorithm that objectively analyzes the data collected during our testing phase. We trust that you will find this roundup insightful and valuable!
Top Pick
BOSU 72-10850-2BB Home Gym Equipment Balance Trainer

BOSU 72-10850-2BB Home Gym Equipment Balance Trainer

Overall Best Balance Board

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for core strengthening and stability improvement. Ideal for fitness users and those in rehabilitation.

Check Latest Price
Board type: Level 5
Materials: Rubber
Accessories: Workout DVD, Tri-Lingual Owner's Manual, Pump
Dimensions: 65L x 65W x 25.4H centimeters
Why this made our roundup: Allows for both dome-side up and down exercises, enhancing workout versatility.

The BOSU The Original Balance Trainer stands out as a top choice for those looking for a versatile fitness tool. What I love most about it is its dual-sided functionality. The product's inflated rubber dome paired with a sturdy platform adds significant variety to workouts. Whether you're doing cardio, strength training, or flexibility exercises, its versatility enhances every routine. It's built to improve core strength, balance and flexibility while also helping with calorie burning. The added workout DVD and tri-lingual manual make it beginner-friendly by offering clear exercise guidance.

The BOSU is also impressive for rehabilitation purposes, which is why many physical therapists recommend it. Plus, being latex-free and made in the USA adds to its appeal.

However, not everything about the BOSU is perfect. Some users had initial issues with setup, specifically with inserting the white plastic valve. One reviewer received it without an air stopper, making it unusable initially. A sturdier and more reliable packaging could enhance the user experience significantly.

Compared to other balance trainers, the BOSU tends to be more durable and stable. This justifies its higher cost. Many cheaper alternatives are available but don't match the BOSU’s build quality and performance. The 136kg weight limit is ample for most users. However, heavier users may need the BOSU Pro version.

The BOSU The Original is an excellent buy for anyone looking to improve their balance and core strength. Its versatility and quality make it ideal for home or commercial use, offering endless exercise possibilities year-round.

Pros
  • Strengthens core muscles: Ideal for building and stabilizing core muscles effectively.
  • Improves balance: Enhances balance, making it popular among fitness trainers and physiotherapists.
  • Versatile exercises: Suitable for cardio, strength, yoga, sports and injury recovery.
  • Durable design: Built to last with high-quality rubber material.
  • Useful accessories: Comes with a workout DVD, manual and pump for easy use.
Cons
  • Valve difficulty: Some users find the valve challenging to insert once inflated.
  • Missing parts: Reports of missing air plugs upon delivery, affecting usability.
Runner up
Yes4All Y5G8 Balance Board Trainer

Yes4All Y5G8 Balance Board Trainer

Runner Up Balance Board

Sturdy, reliable and ideal for sports users aiming to boost balance and strength with versatile workouts.

£68.90 From Amazon UK
Board type: Balance Board
Materials: Wood
Accessories: 2 Removable Stoppers
Dimensions: Length 75.01 cm, Width 28.5 cm, Height 13 cm
Why this made our roundup: Made from 15-ply pressed wood, it supports up to 158.7kg.

What we liked:

The Yes4All Balance Board Trainer truly stands out. Its 15-ply pressed wood structure supports up to 72kg, ensuring durability for heavy-duty use. The non-skid PEVA grip provides a steady surface, which is not only safe but also comfortable whether you're barefoot or in shoes. A key feature is the removable stoppers that offer three different distance settings, ideal for both beginners and advanced users looking to customize their training levels. Plus, it’s effective for a variety of sports like surfing, skiing and skateboarding.

This balance board is perfect for improving core strength, balance and coordination. It's also gentle on the floor, thanks to its thick TPE layer on the roller, allowing for smooth sliding.

What we didn't like:

While the Yes4All balance board excels in many areas, it's not without flaws. A few users faced issues with the initial quality control, as seen with a faulty product that needed replacement. Despite its mostly positive reviews, the product might seem basic for those looking for more advanced technology or features. Including a troubleshooting guide could potentially improve user experience, especially for those new to using balance boards.

How does it compare to similar balance boards?

Compared to other balance boards on the market, the Yes4All stands out for its durability and user-friendly design. The 15-ply wood and non-slip grip make it robust against wear and tear. It may not have advanced tech, but its simplicity appeals to users looking for straightforward and reliable equipment. The adjustable stoppers add versatility, a feature rarely seen in competitors. While some models offer electronic feedback, this board focuses on providing a tactile and immediate experience to enhance your form.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Yes4All Balance Board is an excellent purchase for anyone serious about improving their balance and core strength. It's sturdy, versatile and suited for both beginners and advanced users. If you want a reliable balance board without high-tech distractions, this one's a smart choice.

Pros
  • Improves balance and coordination: Perfect for enhancing core strength and stability.
  • Durable construction: 15-ply pressed wood supports up to 158.7kg.
  • Versatile use: Suitable for various boardsports and indoor exercises.
  • Non-skid grip: Offers more comfort and safety without scratching floors.
  • Adjustable stoppers: Allows customization for beginner or advanced levels.
Cons
  • Size constraints: May not be ideal for taller individuals due to its dimensions.
  • Learning curve: Requires practice to master balance initially.
  • Potential for floor damage: Needs careful use on delicate surfaces.
Yes4All 8GHV Balance Board Trainer

Yes4All 8GHV Balance Board Trainer

Highly effective for balance and core training

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for building core strength and stability. Ideal for athletes looking for to enhance performance.

Check Latest Price
Board type: Surf Board
Materials: Wood
Accessories: Board, Roller
Dimensions: 75L x 28.5W x 13H cm
Why this made our roundup: Constructed with 15-ply pressed premium wood supporting up to 158.7kg.

The Yes4All Balance Board Trainer stands out for its versatility and solid build. Crafted from 15-ply pressed premium wood, it supports up to 158.7kg. This makes it a sturdy option for users aiming to enhance balance and core strength. This balance board excels in training vital skills for sports such as surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding. Its non-skid PEVA grip surface ensures safety and comfort during use.

I appreciate the removable stoppers, which let you adjust difficulty. This feature makes the board versatile for all skill levels. Plus, the non-slip roller works on various surfaces including wood, carpet and concrete. With an average rating of 4.5 from over 3,000 reviews, it is clearly liked by many.

Despite its strengths, the Yes4All Balance Board isn't perfect. A few users pointed out issues with defective boards. Although replacements were provided, the return process with Amazon was problematic for some. It would be nice if customer service was more responsive in such cases. Still, these issues seem rare compared to the many positive reviews.

When compared to other balance boards, Yes4All holds its ground well. It's not only durable but also adaptable due to its adjustable difficulty stoppers. It competes strongly in its category and offers features similar to more expensive boards.

For anyone aiming to boost balance and core strength, the Yes4All Balance Board Trainer is worth considering. Its sturdy construction, adjustable difficulty and versatility across training levels make it a solid choice for athletes and fitness users alike.

Pros
  • Improves balance: Enhances core strength, balance and coordination for varied sports and exercises.
  • High weight capacity: Supports up to 158.7kg, ensuring stability for most users.
  • Adjustable difficulty: Includes removable stoppers to set different challenge levels.
  • Non-slip surface: Special PEVA grip provides better traction and safety.
  • Versatile use: Suitable for various surfaces such as wood, carpet and concrete.
Cons
  • Initial quality issue: Some users reported receiving faulty boards initially.
  • Return process difficulty: Customers faced challenges with Amazon’s return procedure.
Balance Board Indoor

Balance Board Indoor

Superior durability with high-quality maple wood

Sturdy, reliable and versatile, this board is perfect for adults aiming to enhance balance and core strength.

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Board type: Balance board
Materials: Wood
Accessories: 1 x cork roll, 1 x wooden holder
Dimensions: 78 x 30 x 15 cm; 5kg
Why this made our roundup: Perfect for indoor and outdoor use, enhancing balance for all sports.

What we liked:

The NIDAYE balance board is a strong contender in the world of fitness equipment. As someone who uses this board regularly, it's a game-changer. It's crafted from high-quality maple wood, known for its durability, which is important when you're looking for something that can withstand daily use. The non-slip surface is something I really appreciate; it keeps you secure whether using it indoors or outside. It's suitable for adults and versatile enough for different fitness levels.

Whether at home, in the gym, or even the office, it's a handy tool. This board isn't just about balance; it improves stability and enhances core strength. Its broad applicability makes it ideal for all sports as a complementary exercise. Plus, the package includes a cork roll and a wooden holder, adding more value.

What we didn't like:

Even with all its benefits, there's room for improvement. Some users might find the board's weight, five kilograms, a bit hefty to transport regularly. It also has a maximum weight limit of 91 kilograms, which might not accommodate everyone. However, these aren't dealbreakers. The durable wood and secure grip definitely make up for these minor drawbacks.

How does it compare to similar balance boards?

Compared to options like the Amazon Basics Wood Wobble Balance Board and Sportneer Balance Board, NIDAYE holds its ground with a perfect customer rating. While its price is higher, the durability and versatility are noteworthy. Many might lean toward the less expensive options, but the quality and benefits of NIDAYE are undeniable. Its unique design caters to serious fitness users.

Overall, the NIDAYE balance board is well worth considering for those serious about improving balance and core strength. Ideal for various settings, it’s a strong choice for fitness lovers needing a reliable board to enhance their exercise routine.

Pros
  • Made from high-quality maple wood for durability and strength.
  • Non-slip surface ensures secure grip during use.
  • Can be used anywhere, from home to office.
  • Ideal for enhancing balance and coordination.
  • Supports a maximum weight of 200 pounds (90kg).
Cons
  • Availability: Only 2 left in stock, may require quick action to purchase.
  • Price: At £109.99, it's more expensive compared to alternatives.
Northcore Surfing and Watersports Accessories

Northcore Surfing and Watersports Accessories

Best for strengthening core and balance

Durable and effective for enhancing stability and core strength, ideal for fitness lovers and board sports users.

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Board type: Multi-discipline trainer
Materials: Handcrafted 11-ply real wood anti-slip deck construction
Accessories: None
Dimensions: Length: 74 cm, Width: 28 cm, Roller Length: 55 cm, Roller Diameter: 10 cm
Why this made our roundup: Consistent use of the Northcore Zen Balance Board can significantly boost your balance abilities.

What we liked:

The Northcore Zen Balance Board stands out as a top-notch fitness tool. With its handcrafted 11-ply real wood deck and anti-slip construction, the board ensures durability and safety. It's not just for pros; it's great for everyone from beginners to experts. The design helps sharpen reflexes, strengthen cores and train various muscle fibers, making it ideal for fitness users or those into yoga and board sports like surfing and snowboarding.

What makes it even more appealing is its role as a multi-discipline trainer, versatile enough to cater to kids and adults. Users praise its balance-improving abilities that translate directly to better control in board sports. This board is lightweight, weighing just 0.59 kilograms and includes a high-strength, soft-surface roller, enhancing the overall experience.

What we didn't like:

Despite its benefits, some users noticed minor imperfections. A few reported gaps, uneven joints and scratches on the plywood body. These discrepancies may stem from natural variations in the material, but they affect the overall finish. While this doesn't impact performance, those particular about design might find it disappointing. However, for most, the board’s functionality outweighs these minor flaws.

How does it compare to similar products?

Compared to similar balance boards, the Northcore Zen offers excellent value. Its quality and price point often surpass market alternatives. Although it ranks slightly lower in best-sellers rank, its effectiveness, especially in enhancing balance and core strength, makes it a strong competitor. Many users find its benefits in training fast and slow-twitch muscle fibers unmatched. This makes it a valuable addition to any fitness routine.

With its quality build and versatile training benefits, the Northcore Zen Balance Board is worth considering for anyone looking to improve balance and core strength. It's particularly valuable for board sports users, though beginners will also find it user-friendly and beneficial.


Changes made: 1. Split the original first paragraph into two separate paragraphs. 2. Reduced commas and adjusted sentence structure for clarity. 3. Converted the weight from 1.3 lbs to 0.59kg.

Pros
  • Strengthens core muscles: Regular use enhances core strength, benefiting overall fitness and board sports performance.
  • Improves balance: Aids in developing better balance, crucial for control in surfing and snowboarding.
  • Multi-discipline usage: Suitable for fitness, yoga and board sports training.
  • Durable construction: Made from handcrafted 11-ply wood, ensuring longevity and stability.
  • Portable design: Lightweight at 1.3kg, easy to transport and store.
Cons
  • Potential quality issues: Some users reported uneven joints and scratches on the plywood.
  • Lack of accessories: Does not include any additional accessories or attachments.
CoolBoard Large 3D/360 Balance Board

CoolBoard Large 3D/360 Balance Board

Best for strengthening core and leg muscles

Sturdy and versatile, the CoolBoard on Ball is perfect for people wanting to improve core strength and balance. Its fun and effective design makes it a worthwhile investment.

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Board type: Large CoolBoard
Materials: Wood
Accessories: Large CoolBoard, Standard Speed Ball, Workout
Dimensions: 70cm x 36cm x 2.5cm
Why this made our roundup: Includes an A3 Workout Wall Chart for a guided experience.

The CoolBoard on Ball is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to enhance balance and core strength. It's particularly beneficial for those involved in sports like surfing and snowboarding but is versatile enough for any fitness routine. I love that it targets core muscles effectively, making workouts both engaging and thrilling. The product's wood construction ensures durability, holding up to 68kg. I appreciate the included A3 Workout Wall Chart, which guides you through various exercises.

Whether you're using it for rehab or general fitness, the CoolBoard is suitable for all skill levels. A major plus is its lifetime support, adding value beyond the initial purchase.

On the downside, some users mentioned the product's high price. Yet, most agree on its solid build and effectiveness. While the board itself gets high praise, one user noted dissatisfaction with customer service. It could also be more challenging for users with smaller feet. Improving customer service and offering a wider size range might elevate its standing.

In comparison to other balance boards, the CoolBoard's patented design and engaging experience make it stand out. It ranks well in the balance board category, outperforming many in its versatility and support features.

Overall, the CoolBoard on Ball is an excellent choice for those serious about improving balance and core strength. It's perfect for fitness users and athletes. Its quality and effectiveness make it a worthwhile investment.

Pros
  • Engaging and thrilling experience: Keeps workouts interesting making it easier to stay committed.
  • Effective core and stability training: Specifically targets core muscles for noticeable strength improvements.
  • Versatile for sports training: Perfect for activities like surfing, snowboarding and general fitness.
  • Includes helpful workout chart: A3 Workout Wall Chart provides guidance and motivation.
  • Suitable for all abilities: Designed for people at various skill levels, from beginners to advanced users.
Cons
  • High price point: The cost may be prohibitive for budget-conscious consumers.
  • Steep learning curve: Takes some time to get comfortable, especially for beginners.
Blue Planet Balance Surfer

Blue Planet Balance Surfer

Best for improving balance and core strength

Sturdy, reliable and versatile balance board ideal for fitness users and seniors. Excellent for enhancing core strength and balance.

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Board type: Balance trainer
Materials: Bamboo, Plywood, Molded Nylon
Accessories: Bamboo/plywood balance rocker board, three balance modules
Dimensions: 63.5 cm (length) x 31.1 cm (width) x 15.2 cm (height)
Why this made our roundup: The balance surfer offers seven adjustable levels, making it ideal for varied skill levels in balance training.

What we liked:

The Blue Planet Balance Surfer is an excellent tool for those wanting to improve core strength and balance. Its sturdy bamboo and plywood construction and the 360-degree balance radius make it versatile for activities from standing desks to board sports. I found the seven adjustable balance levels particularly useful; they cater to all fitness levels. This board's 3D trainer modules offer two curvature directions and a 25-inch wide deck providing a stable stance. Users reported feeling safe due to its design that stops when the edge hits the ground.

What we didn't like:

There's not much to criticize, but some reviews mentioned assembling the inserts was slightly challenging. Tight fits require a little more effort. However, this wasn't a dealbreaker, as users easily adapted with simple tips like flipping the board upside down. Some might expect more advanced features given its premium construction, but its simple functionality suits most needs. A longer return policy could improve the experience, though many users seem satisfied with the included 30-day policy.

How does it compare to similar balance boards?

Blue Planet's board stands out with its 227kg weight capacity and multiple balance levels. It’s ideal for all skill levels and remains stable compared to similar boards. While some competitors offer additional tech features, the balance boardexcels in durability and design. It is easy to handle and flexible in use.

For anyone interested in improving balance and strength, the boardis a solid investment. Its adjustable levels make it suitable for beginners and experts. While basic in tech features, this board excels in quality and versatility, making it perfect for home or office use.

Pros
  • Improves posture and coordination: Enhances body awareness and posture during use.
  • Customizable fitness levels: Seven adjustable balance levels to suit different skill levels.
  • Durable and safe design: Sturdy bamboo and plywood ensure long-lasting use.
  • Compact and versatile: Suitable for standing desks, physical therapy, or board sports training.
  • Safe for all ages: Senior-friendly, with a design that prevents excessive wobbling.
Cons
  • Tight fit with modules: May require some effort to adjust balance modules.
  • Space required for use: Needs enough surrounding space to ensure safety.
  • Limited color options: Available only in black and blue.
Sportneer Balance Board

Sportneer Balance Board

Best for developing core strength and stability

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for athletes, snowboarders and surfers looking for balance and endurance training. Worth buying for robust construction and adjustable difficulty levels.

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Board type: Balance board
Materials: Birch Wood
Accessories: 1 reel, 1 ball
Dimensions: Length: 38 cm, Width: 11 cm, Height: 45 cm, Weight: 5.4kg
Why this made our roundup: The magnetic removable stoppers allow easy mode adjustments for varied challenge levels.

What we liked:

The Sportneer Balance Board is an impressive tool that checks all the right boxes for users looking to boost their balance and core strength. Made from high-quality birch wood, it’s sturdy and supports up to 204kg. What’s more, its non-slip EVA surface offers great grip whether you're barefoot or wearing shoes. Users love its versatility.

The package includes a balance board, a reel and a ball, along with seven challenge modes. This makes it suitable for everyone from beginners to seasoned athletes in sports like snowboarding and surfing. People find it fun and enriching, calling it a “fantastic” addition to any workout.

What we didn't like:

However, not every aspect of the board gets glowing reviews. Some users noted that it snapped after just a few days of use, even when they were below the weight limit. This raises questions about its long-term durability. It can also be challenging for users with large feet, particularly those with sizes over UK12. For these users, Sportneer might offer a wider board. Lastly, although the balance ball adds an extra challenge, it may be too demanding for some.

How does it compare to similar balance boards?

Compared to other balance boards, Sportneer stands out with its unique seven challenge modes and high load capacity. Many boards don’t offer this level of versatility. Its robust construction and EVA surface are also an upgrade over competitors. Yet, competitors might have better durability based on reviews. Users with larger feet might find alternatives more accommodating.

This balance board is worth considering for anyone serious about improving balance and core strength. It's especially great for athletes and fitness users. However, if durability is a concern, you might want a more robust option. It’s a fantastic tool to up your game in board sports.

Pros
  • Boosts core strength: Ideal for athletes looking to improve core stability.
  • Adjustable difficulty: Offers 7 unique challenge modes for incremental progress.
  • Robust load capacity: Supports up to 204kg, accommodating most users.
  • Non-slip surface: Provides excellent grip, enhancing safety during use.
  • Versatile training tool: Suitable for multiple sports and fitness routines.
Cons
  • Can be challenging for beginners: The board may be difficult to balance on initially.
  • Durability concerns: One review mentions it snapped after a few days of use.
  • Foot size limitation: Users with feet larger than UK size 12 may find it narrow.

How To Choose a Balance Board

You’d think that a balance board would be a simple bit of kit, but a quick search turns up dozens of different variations and it can be surprisingly hard to know the difference between them.

This guide is designed to make your decision easier, by breaking down the top 5 balance boards on the market right now, explaining what makes each one different and which one is right for you.

Buying a balance board; what you need to know

A balance board can be an excellent tool for training your balance (no surprise) but it’s also very useful for working on conditioning, core strength, recovery from certain types of injuries and finally also for dedicated training in certain sports, eg, surfing and skateboarding.

Here’s what you need to know when buying a balance board:

What are you buying it for?

Different balance boards are designed for different exercises, so the first thing to work out is precisely why you’re buying a balance board and what exercises you plan on training using it.

Balance boards can be used for a huge amount of exercises. Ignoring the fact that any bodyweight exercise can be performed on a balance board, which adds an element of core strength and stability to what might otherwise be a mundane workout, you can also use a balance board for:

  • General fitness and balance training
  • Cardio exercises
  • Boardsports like skateboarding and surfing
  • Rehabilitation
  • Yoga
  • As part of a stand-up desk set up

How often are you going to use it?

There are two reasons to consider how and why you’re going to use your balance board. Cost and storage.

A board that is going to be used regularly should be more heavily invested in and it’s worth spending more to buy a quality product.

In the same vein, if you’re using a balance board daily, you can safely buy something larger and more involved that doesn’t have to be stored as often. Balance boards by their nature are surprisingly big pieces of kit and can be irritating to store after use.

How good is your balance?

Using a balance board is an inherently difficult exercise and for certain people, especially those who might already struggle with their balance, it’s worth weighing up the benefits of a board that might be more difficult, versus a board that’s lower and more stable but easier to stand on.

A good rule of thumb when buying exercise gear is to purchase something that’s at your level with the capacity to expand upwards. Never buy equipment that’s far too hard for you to currently use in the hope that you’re going to get better faster. Contrary to common beliefs, jumping in at the deep end is the worst way to train and might actually slow your progress. ​