To inflate a balance ball correctly, you must pump in just the right amount of air: it cannot get too taut or too soft. An overinflated exercise ball will not last long, and is at risk of bursting: an underinflated exercise ball is incapable of producing any fitness benefits.

Here is a method that works for both exercise balls and Bosu balls, and you can use again and again

Also, we have answers to some FAQs you may have about inflating an exercise ball or BOSU ball.

Main Points:

You must not pump an exercise ball to full capacity
Find the recommended size to inflate your exercise ball to
It is not advisable to use a bike pump
Learn what to use if you don’t have a proper pump

How to Inflate an Exercise Ball

What You Need:

The balance ball (or BOSU ball).
A hand pump, foot pump, or electric pump (often included with the ball)
A ball plug or stopper (should be attached to the valve)
The measuring ribbon (if your ball comes with one)
A measuring tape (optional)
The user manual (for reference)

Of these items, the balance ball, the pump, the measuring ribbon, and the user manual should be included in the package

Step-by-Step Guide to Inflating Your Balance Ball

Step 1: Check the Recommended Size

The recommended size should be in the instruction manual, or (sometimes) written on the surface of the ball. For a BOSU balance ball, the recommended inflated size is usually on the bottom flat side.

Exercise balls (yoga balls) are typically 25 inches (65 cm) or 29 inches (75 cm) in diameter.
Bosu balls are usually about 21-23 inches (53-68 inches)

Step 2: Let the Ball Reach Room Temperature

If your ball has been sitting in a cold place, let it warm up to room temperature for a few hours before inflating.
Warming up your exercise ball helps the material stretch evenly.

Step 3: Insert the Pump Nozzle

Locate the air hole on the exercise ball. On BOSU ball, the air hole is typically in the bottom flat side.
Insert the nozzle of your pump securely to prevent air leakage. Always use the pump that comes with the exercise ball.

Step 4: Start Inflating

Pump air into the exercise ball gradually.
Do not pump your exercise ball to full capacity. Instead, start by inflating it to about 80% of its full size, and let it sit for a few hours. This allows the material to stretch properly before reaching full capacity.

A woman sitting on a balance ball that is properly inflated

Step 5: Check the Firmness

Once the ball reaches the correct size, give it a gentle press with your hands to ensure its firmness.

An inflated exercise ball or BOSU ball should neither be too taut and rigid nor too soft. It should be firm but still have a little give.
If your exercise ball feels too soft after inflating, add more air.
If it’s too hard, release some air.

Step 6: Seal the Ball

Quickly remove the pump and insert the plug (stopper) into the air hole.
Press firmly to ensure it’s sealed tightly, and feel around the valve to ensure no air is escaping.

Step 7: Let It Sit

If you inflated the ball in stages, let it sit for a few hours before using it at full capacity. This helps maintain its shape and durability.
For a BOSU ball, you can let it sit for just about ten minutes.

What a well-inflated balance ball looks like

With these 7 steps, you have properly inflated your exercise ball (or BOSU ball) in a way that maintains its quality, and ensures your safety as you use it. Repeat this process every time you inflate your exercise ball: it is best for longevity and safety.

How Long Should It Take to Pump an Exercise Ball

If you buy a good quality exercise ball from a reliable brand, it should not take more than 5 minutes to inflate it to the appropriate size.
A BOSU ball should take less than that, maybe 4 minutes or less.

Here’s a Plug for You!

You can inflate a BOSU ball from Zelus Fitness in 3 minutes.

Zelus balance balls are super easy to inflate because the package comes with everything you need and more: ✅ a foot pump, ✅ an instruction manual, ✅ the valve has an attached stopper.

With a Zelus yoga ball, you also get:

a pair of resistance bands,
a pair of airplugs to facilitate your workouts.
The BOSU balls also have a safe non-slip base and are made of non-toxic PVC materials.
They are affordable, and support everything from sit-ups to reverse extensions and Pilates.

Check out more Zelus balance balls of different colors to match your home and aesthetic.

Important Tips For Inflating your Exercise Ball

Avoid overinflating, as it can weaken the material and make the ball prone to popping.
If you don’t have a pump, use other kinds of pumps designed for inflatable items
Store your ball in a cool, dry place away from sharp objects.
Measure the ball’s diameter after inflation to ensure it’s the correct size.

Pay attention to these tips

Injuries on an exercise ball are not very common, but over 47 people have been injured by exercise ball explosions since 2000.

Besides, it is almost pointless to exercise on a balance ball that is not properly inflated. So pay strict attention to these tips, your safety might depend on it

Important FAQs About Inflating an Exercise Ball

1. Can You Use a Bike Pump?

Do not use a bike pump to inflate your exercise bike, except the bike pump comes with adapters for other inflatable items.

Contrary to popular opinion, using a bike pump to inflate an exercise ball is not a good idea.

First, most bike pumps are not compatible with exercise ball valves. Bike pumps are made for Shrader and Presta valves, both of which are found on bike tires and tubes, not exercise balls.
Moreover, the higher pressure of a bike pump would make it more likely for you to overinflate the exercise ball, which can be risky if your exercise ball is not top quality.

Except your bike pump comes with adapters to pump not only tubes but also various inflatable items.

What can you use to Pump Your Exercise Ball?

To pump your exercise ball, use the pump that comes with it. All good quality exercise balls come with a foot or hand pump, a resistant band and an instruction manual for proper inflation.

In the absence of a pump, you can use an air compressor (some flats and company buildings have) or any kind of air pump that is:

designed for inflatable items like footballs, basketballs, or even inflatable mattresses (tires not included).
Compatible with the valve of your exercise ball.

This method contains 7 steps and it works for both exercise balls and BOSU balls. It will help you pump your exercise ball in a way that protects its structural integrity, and preserves it for safe and healthy long-term use.

To learn more about bosu balls, click here

How to Inflate an Exercise Ball in 7 Steps