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If you want an intensely deep and relaxing massage but don’t want to go to a parlor, look no further because we rounded up all of the best massage balls that will instantly relieve sore, tense muscles.
Massage balls come in all shapes and sizes, but the intention is to roll your body over them to release muscle tension. You can either roll your body across the ball or if it’s small enough, you can roll the ball over your body to cover smaller areas.
Below, we rounded up all of our favorite massage balls in 2024 from a small lacrosse ball to a large foam ball, a spiked ball, and so many others. Different massage balls can be used on all different parts of the body and there’s something for everyone on our list of top picks!
Comparing the Top Massage Ball of 2024
Kieba Lacrosse Balls — Best Overall
Included in this set are two balls that enable you to self-myofascial release knots in your muscles. There are two firm balls in red and blue that can be used all over the body. You can use one at a time are both at once for ultimate tension release. Simply roll your body over the ball and feel your muscles relax. They’re made of 100% solid rubber and the brand offers a 100% money-back guarantee. Plus, they’re small enough to throw in your bag and travel with.
Pros
- Two balls are included
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a carrying case
TriggerPoint Massage Ball — Runner Up
This is the ultimate massage ball to release tension in larger areas of the body. It’s a 5-inch foam ball that allows you to get in hard-to-reach places like the hips and shoulders. The foam surface makes it easy to clean and it's made in the USA. It’s super lightweight and slip-resistant so you can travel with it. It’s the perfect way to release tension and increase circulation.
Pros
- It reachers larger areas of the body
Cons
- It only comes with one ball
Physix Gear Sport Balls — Honorable Mention
This spiky massage ball can hold up to 300 lbs of pressure. The unique spiked design makes it easy to relieve trigger points, plus, it’s great for plantar fasciitis. It’s small enough to throw in your bag and travel with, plus, it comes in five different colors. It is best if used on the feet, but these balls can also be used all over the body including the neck and shoulders. It’s super firm and durable, and it even comes with a free, easy-to-follow eGuide for instructions and ways to use it.
Pros
- It comes with a free eGuide
Cons
- It has spikes
ActiveProZone Massage Ball — Contender
Included in this pack are two extra-firm rubber balls and a convenient mesh carrying bag. They’re super small which makes it easy to get in hard-to-reach places and they can be used anywhere on your body. Even though the ball is firm, it has a soft surface that is meant to feel like the hands of a massage therapist, plus, it has a non-slip surface that provides an amazing grip.
Pros
- It comes with a mesh carrying bag
Cons
- They’re only available in 2 colors
WOVTE Lacrosse Ball — Great for Tension Relief
For a super triggering massage to relieve tense muscles, this lacrosse ball is perfect. It’s small, firm, and is made of a durable rubber material. You can use it anywhere on your body and it’s tiny enough to reach hard-to-get places. It’s lightweight and has a 360-degree spherical design that makes it super easy to use. Simply lay on it and roll around or pick it up with your hands and roll it all over your muscles.
Pros
- It has a 360-degree spherical design
Cons
- It only comes with one ball
Buying Guide to Finding a Massage Ball
Massaging is the most effective way to get rid of muscle soreness and stiffness caused due to lousy posture, elongated work hours, and daily workout sessions. But, getting a professional massage daily after a tiring day can be quite costly. So, you should get your hands on quality massage balls because they allow you to relax your muscles every day at home. They are designed to work on different body parts to increase the blood flow that helps reduce pain and stiffness in the muscles. However, finding an effective massage ball among a plethora of options is not an easy task. That’s why we’ve crafted a full-fledged buying guide containing all the key information you need to pick the best ball.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Massage Ball?
Choosing a massage ball can be overwhelming if you are not aware of the nitty-gritty of how to find the best one. Here are some of the factors you should take into account to make an informed buying decision.
Ball material
There's a vast variety of massage balls available in the market, each having its unique features owing to the material used in making them. Most of them are manufactured using premium quality rubber known for its high resilience, tear resistance, lightweight, and durability. There are also some products made using the blend of EVA and foam or silicone and rubber. The former fusion makes the ball anti-slip, lightweight, travel-friendly, and easy to clean, while the latter makes it solid, durable, smooth, and long-lasting. Apart from smooth balls, you can find massage balls having spikes on them. They are usually made of polyvinyl chloride that is shock-resistant, chemical-free, odorless, solid, and more.
Size
Different massage balls are designed in different sizes to release tension from various body muscles. The diameter of high-quality balls varies between 2.5 inches to 5 inches. The smaller ones are easier to carry around. You can also use them to release muscle knots, stress, and tension and rejuvenate sore muscles to generate better blood flow and increase flexibility. On the other hand, bigger balls work best on hard-to-reach areas like hip and shoulder muscles.
Number of balls
Some brands sell massage balls in a combo of two items, while others include one single ball in the pack. The higher the number of balls, the more you save. So, compare the different options to pick a set that adds value for money. Besides, you can indulge in couple-workout training programs using a pair of balls, which is practically not possible with a single massage ball.
Packaging
If you are buying a massage ball to present it as a gift or if you travel too often, you should buy a product that comes in good packaging. Some premium rolling balls come with mesh covers that allow you to carry the balls from one place to another effortlessly.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Massage Ball?
Massage balls have gained rapid momentum due to the enormous benefits they offer. Some of them are:
Reduce stress and soreness
Sore muscles can be the primary cause of discomfort and laziness in your body. If not treated on time, they could result in severe pain and stiffness. Massage balls improve blood flow and help relax the sore muscles to make you feel more comfortable and active.
Release pain
Muscle soreness, tightness, and stiffness are the most common problems people face today. Our irregular posture at work or lack of active life makes our muscles stiff, causing pain and discomfort. This pain could get severe if you don't work on your muscles instantly. Massage balls help open the muscle knots that improve blood flow, relieving muscle pain.
Improve flexibility
Tensed ligaments, tight tendons, and fascia lead to a lack of flexibility in the body. As a result, your body becomes inactive due to which your performance degrades with time. Daily massage before or after your workout sessions or even as a part of your daily routine help you ease stiff muscles, improving the flexibility in your body.
Relax mind
A tired body can lead to a stressed mind. Massaging is one of the most effective ways to relax the mind and the body, and you can achieve it all in the comfort of your home with a high-quality massage ball.
How Much Should a Massage Ball Cost?
The cost of a massage ball pack made by different brands may vary depending on their benefits, material quality, number of items, packaging, and the brand's value. However, we have done thorough research and figured out that you can grab a top-notch massage ball within the price range of $7 to $28.
