Introduction of Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer

The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer is a versatile fitness equipment that combines the benefits of a stability ball and a traditional flat exercise mat. This innovative half-ball design provides an unstable surface that challenges the user's balance and engages the core muscles, making it an excellent tool for improving stability, coordination, and strength.

The estimated price of the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer is around $120 to $150, and it is available for purchase online and in-store at various sports and fitness retailers. There is no specific launching date for this product as it has been around for quite some time, but it continues to be a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts due to its effectiveness and versatility.

In the Box

Your Balance Trainer comes complete with a dual-action hand pump, plug and a “Getting Started” reference card. 

Detailed Specifications

The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer has the following key features:

• Half-ball design that creates an unstable surface for balance training
• Durable and inflatable rubber material that is non-slip and puncture-resistant
• Platform side can be used for flat surface exercises, while the dome side can be used for balance and stability training
• Comes with a hand pump for easy inflation
• Maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds (136 kg)
• Dimensions: 23 inches (58.4 cm) in diameter and 10 inches (25.4 cm) in height
• Includes a workout guide with various exercises and workouts

Overview of Your Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer

The BOSU Balance Trainer can be used with the platform side either up or down for different types of exercises. The solid platform is 65 cm in diameter and 1 3/8 inches thick. The dome should be inflated until it measures 10 inches tall with dome side up or 8 1/2 inches with the dome side down. Two recessed handles on the bottom of the platform make it easy to carry and grip for different exercises. 

GETTING STARTED

INFLATING YOUR BALANCE TRAINER

1. Find the dual-action hand pump that came with your Balance Trainer and remove it from its wrapping. (See Fig. A)
2. Place your Balance Trainer at a 45º with the platform side up. (See Fig. B)

3. Insert the dual-action hand pump nozzle firmly into the valve housing and inflate to a height of about 8.5 inches. (See Fig. B)  DO NOT exceed 10 inches.

   

   TIP 1: To judge proper inflation, simply hold a ruler vertically against the side of the Balance Trainer and inflate until the platform clears approximately 8.5 inches high on the ruler with dome side down and a maximum of 10 inches high with dome side up. (See Figs. C1 and C2)  
   Caution: Adding too much air will cause the bladder to separate from the base and rim. (See Video on Pg 6 for Over-Inflation if that happens.)

4. Once you have inflated your Balance Trainer to the proper height, firmly insert the plug into the valve inlet. 

5. Before each use, visually inspect the equipment. Never use the equipment if parts are missing or if the equipment is not functioning properly.

   

   MAXIMUM 10 INCHES HIGH WITH DOME SIDE UP

Description of Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer

The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer is a versatile fitness equipment that can be used for various exercises and workouts. The half-ball design provides an unstable surface that challenges the user's balance and engages the core muscles, resulting in improved stability, coordination, and strength. The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer can be used for balance training, stability exercises, plyometrics, agility training, and even yoga and Pilates.

The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer is made of durable and inflatable rubber material that is non-slip and puncture-resistant. It comes with a hand pump for easy inflation, and it can be inflated to the desired firmness depending on the user's preference. The platform side can be used for flat surface exercises, while the dome side can be used for balance and stability training. The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds (136 kg) and includes a workout guide with various exercises and workouts.

GENERAL EXERCISE GUIDELINES

• If you are just starting an exercise program with your Balance Trainer, choose a time of day that’s good for you and then stick to it closely. You should choose a time when you feel energetic, when interruptions are few, and when you have not eaten for approximately two hours.
• Practice each exercise until you are very clear on correct technique. When following any of the Balance Trainer exercise videos, begin with the easier variation of each exercise and progress to the more challenging variations only when you feel ready. 
• Using muscle fatigue and proper technique as a guide, increase your repetitions to the number that you can complete comfortably and correctly. It is more important to perform the exercises correctly than it is to complete the suggested number of repetitions. 

Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer Setup Guide

Setting up the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer is easy and straightforward. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Unbox the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer and lay it flat on the floor.
2. Attach the nozzle of the hand pump to the air valve on the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer.
3. Inflate the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer to the desired firmness. It is recommended to inflate it to the point where it is firm but still has some give.
4. Once inflated, remove the nozzle from the air valve and test the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer by standing on it. It should feel stable and secure.
5. Refer to the workout guide for various exercises and workouts that can be done using the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer.

Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer Care & Storage

Your Balance Trainer has been carefully designed to require minimal maintenance for enjoyable use. To ensure this, we recommend that you do the following:

• Keep your Balance Trainer clean. Wipe sweat, dust or other residue off the Balance Trainer after each use with a towel. Water and a mild soap may also be used to clean the platform and dome.
• Avoid contacting the Balance Trainer dome with sharp or abrasive objects. Sharp or abrasive objects can puncture the vinyl surface. Always check the soles of your shoes for glass, stones, etc., before standing on the Balance Trainer dome.
• To clean your balance trainer use water and a mild soap or any disinfectant wipe.

How to Store your Balance Trainer

• Store your Balance Trainer after use either inflated or deflated. If deflating, you may have to pull firmly to remove the plug.
• DO NOT STORE THE BALANCE TRAINER IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT OR NEAR A HEAT SOURCE. 
• When storing the Balance Trainer, make sure the dome is not in direct contact with any other surface except another dome. (See Figs. A)

SAFETY

WARNING: FAILURE TO READ AND FOLLOW THE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS STATED ON THE EQUIPMENT AND IN THIS USER GUIDE MAY  RESULT IN POSSIBLE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. 

1. Before starting this or any other exercise program, consult your physician. Your physician should assist you in determining the target heart rate zone appropriate for your age and physical condition. Your physician can also help you determine if you have physical limitations that could create a health risk or prevent you from properly using this equipment. Certain exercise programs or types of equipment may not be appropriate for all people. This is especially important for people over the age of 35, pregnant women, or those with pre-existing health problems, orthopedic conditions, or balance impairments.  If you are taking medication which may affect your heart rate, a physician’s advice is absolutely essential.
2. Handicapped or disabled people must have medical approval before using  this equipment and should be under close supervision when using any exercise equipment.
3. Do not overexert yourself with this or any other exercise program. Listen to your body and respond to any reactions you may be having. You must learn to distinguish “good” pain, like fatigue, from “bad” pain, which hurts. If you experience any pain or tightness in your chest, an irregular heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath,  stop exercising at once and consult your physician immediately.
4. Breathe naturally, never holding your breath during an exercise. Avoid over training; you should be able to carry on a conversation while exercising.
5. Before each use, visually inspect the equipment. Never use the equipment if parts are missing or if the equipment is not functioning properly.
6. Before each use, make sure the dome is properly inflated. Over-inflating the dome can cause the dome to separate from the platform. Immediately stop using the equipment and contact Customer Service if this occurs.
7. Wear appropriate clothing when exercising. Wear athletic shoes, cross-training shoes or aerobic shoes. For some exercises, you may be instructed to exercise in your bare feet. 
8. Use this equipment only for the intended use as described by the manufacturer. Do not modify the equipment or use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer.
9. Start out slowly and progress sensibly. Before beginning any workouts, become acclimated with the dynamic surface of the Balance Trainer by slowly stepping on and off the dome, practicing the “centered” position, etc. Once you become acclimated, start with the beginner workout and become familiar with all of the exercises before moving on to more advanced workouts or exercises. 
10. The dynamic surface of the Balance Trainer can enhance fitness training in a number of ways but it is important to remember that it is still highly unstable and the potential for a fall that may result in injury does exist. Move slowly and with control throughout the workout. To reduce the likelihood of a fall, simply step off of the Balance Trainer safely to the floor if you feel that you are losing your balance at anytime.
11. Standing on platform is not recommended. It is an advanced exercise that increases the risk of a fall resulting in SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
12. Make sure the Balance Trainer is set on a non-slip, level surface with adequate clearance space around you. You should have enough space to lie in a face up, face down, or sidelying position on top of the dome, and to be able to step off safely in any direction. Make sure that if you lose your balance and fall, you will not hit any nearby objects. To reduce the risk of injury if a fall were to occur, use a mat or exercise pad on wood or other hard surfaces.
13. Wipe sweat off the vinyl surface of the Balance Trainer dome before each use and while working out as needed. Not unlike a wet basketball floor, sweat will make the dome surface slippery. Use a towel to wipe sweat off the dome if necessary. 
14. Warm up before any exercise program by doing 5 to 10 minutes of gentle aerobic exercise, such as walking, followed by stretching.
15. Cool down after an exercise session, with 5 to 10 minutes of gentle exercise, such as walking, followed by stretching.
16. The Balance Trainer is not a toy. Children must be supervised by an adult  familiar with the proper use of this product. To prevent injuries, keep this and all  fitness equipment out of the reach of unsupervised children. 

Equipment Labels

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious injury or death, read all safety labels and owner’s manual, or be instructed by a qualified trainer/physical therapist.

• Do not overexert. Stop if you feel faint or dizzy.
• Inspect before each use. Do not use if damaged.
• Check with your doctor before using the BOSU® Balance Trainer.
• Children must be supervised by an adult familiar with proper use.

WARNING: This equipment challenges your balance. You may fall off. Make sure you have adequate space around you in case you fall. Standing on platform side increas-es your risk of falling. If you lose your balance, the platform tips quickly. If you choose to stand on the platform side:

• Take extra precautions, such as holding a securely fixed handhold, not holding weights or any other object, having a spotter, and placing mats on the floor.
• Be prepared to fall. Even with precautions, this advanced activity may result in injury or death..

WARNING: Standing on this side increases your risk of falling. See side label for details.

WARNING: INCREASED FALL RISK. 

Troubleshooting

Here are some common problems and solutions when using the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer:

• Problem: The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer is losing air.
• Solution: Check the air valve for any leaks, and make sure it is tightly secured. If the air valve is not the issue, the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer may have a small puncture. In this case, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
• Problem: The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer is too hard or too soft.
• Solution: Add or release air until it reaches the desired firmness. It is recommended to inflate it to the point where it is firm but still has some give.

Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer Warranty

For a period of 180 days, from the date of receipt, on the BOSU Home Balance Trainer, HEDSTROM Fitness warrants that this product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship when used for personal or household use. This warranty applies only when purchase of the product is from an authorized dealer. This warranty is not transferable. Warranty valid only in the USA.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Versatile and can be used for various exercises and workouts
• Improves stability, coordination, and strength
• Durable and non-slip rubber material
• Easy to inflate and deflate for storage
• Includes a workout guide with various exercises and workouts

Cons

• May be too expensive for some users
• Requires regular inflation checks to ensure proper air pressure
• Can be bulky and takes up storage space
• May take some time to get used to the unstable surface

Customer Reviews about Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer

Customers who have purchased the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer have praised its effectiveness in improving balance and core strength. Many have noted that it is a versatile fitness equipment that can be used for various exercises and workouts. The Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 9,000 customer reviews on Amazon.

However, some customers have noted that the Bosu Hedstrom Balance Trainer requires regular inflation checks to ensure proper air pressure, and that it can be bulky and takes up storage space. Some have also noted that it may take some time to get used to the unstable surface, but once mastered, it provides a great workout for the core and stabilizer muscles.