Which Powerball is Right for Me?

If you're looking to purchase a Powerball, then you'll notice that there are many different models to choose from. While some Powerballs differ only slightly, others have very unique features which can make a big difference to training results. The main things you need to consider when choosing a Powerball are:

Recovery vs Strengthening

The most important thing to consider when choosing a Powerball is to decide if you want to use it for strength training, rehabilitation or both. 250Hz and 280Hz models are great for rehabilitating an injury when used at slow speeds. 

350Hz or our metal models (Hybrid, Diablo, Titan) are suitable for injury prevention and strengthening. You can use these for rehabilitation as well, but as these have very powerful metal rotors, it is not generally recommended and if so, only at very low speeds.

All Powerball models can be used effectively for strength training - you just need to decide how intense you want your training sessions to be. 250Hz, 280Hz and 350Hz (metal) Powerball models each have a max. output of RPMs (revolutions per minute). The higher the RPM output, the more resistance the Powerball can generate and the more intense your strength training can be.

Starting Mechanism

There are three types of starting mechanisms to choose from: Cord-Start, Auto-Start and Electric-Start. You can read more about each type in our article on the Different Powerball Starting Mechanisms.

Which starting mechanism you choose is completely down to personal preference, however, if you have a sensitive hand, finger or wrist injury, a Powerball model with a more simple starting mechanism may be a better option. Auto-Start balls can be started without using your fingers if needed and Electric-Starts only require you to press a button to activate the ball.

Performance Tracking

Our Powerball models are available with a simple original cap (Classic models) or with an integrated LCD display that will monitor and track your spinning performance (Pro models). Most Pro Powerballs now come with a battery-free display, so there is never a need to charge them - it will charge itself automatically (magnetically) as you use it.

The LCD display will show you: current RPMs (revolutions per minute), highest all-time RPM and the training mode. You can read more about the functions of the Powerball LCD display here.

Opting for a "Pro" Powerball model with an LCD display is a good idea if you wish to track your strength or recovery improvements over time, however it is not essential for use and is entirely down to personal preference.

Budget

Of course, your budget is also something to consider when purchasing a Powerball. 

• Cord-Start models are usually lower in price as this is our original starting mechanism.
• Classic Powerballs will usually be lower in price than Pro models, as they do not have an LCD display. 
• 250Hz and 280Hz models with polycarbonate rotors are also generally lower in price than our metal range, simply because they are less powerful and the material less expensive.

Hand Size

All Powerballs are a standard size with the exception of the Titan and Diablo models. Titan is a larger ball and therefore more suitable for people with larger hands. Diablo is about 30% smaller than the standard Powerball and so, may be an option for someone with smaller hands.

Material/Colour/Lights

250Hz and 280Hz polycarbonate Powerballs come in different colour variations - mostly greens and blues. The 280Hz Auto-Start Fusion Powerball has a blue/purple shell, but has the added feature of integrated lights that illuminate as the ball spins.

Our 350Hz Metal Series Powerballs feature a metal shell and/or metal rotor:

• Hybrid: Polycarbonate shell, zinc rotor
• Diablo: Stainless steel shell, zinc rotor
• Titan: Aluminium shell, zinc rotor

While these material features can impact spin performance (mainly, the zinc rotor generates more resistance than a polycarbonate one), they are generally just a personal preference that you can factor in when choosing a Powerball.

If you are looking to purchase a Powerball and still unsure which model might be right for you, contact info@rpmpower.com and we'll be happy to advise you.