Dazadi.com Blog

Medicine balls, not to be confused with exercise balls, are small weighted balls, which can be added to several exercise and physical therapy routines. Often called med balls, weighted balls, toning balls, or fitness balls, modern medicine ball training can help improve muscle strength and tone, core strength, flexibility, coordination and more. They come in weights ranging anywhere from 2 pounds to 30 pounds and can be made out of many different materials with a wide range of features to fit every workout. While medicine balls are commonplace in a gym for physical fitness, they are also very popular amongst physical therapy professionals. Patients can use medicine balls to strengthen weaker parts of the body for proper rehabilitation and function.

Today, there are several options available when buying a medicine ball. Luckily there are only a few things a savvy consumer needs to keep in mind when shopping:

• Weight: Weight is arguably the most important factor that should be kept in mind. A heavier ball isn’t always the most effective. The goal is to find a medicine ball that provides just enough resistance to slow you down when lifting without creating too much of a struggle. This, of course, will depend on your level of strength. If you’re just beginning, it may be a good idea to start out with a ball in the 1-5 pound range. Keep in mind that most exercises require you to hold the ball in front of you or lift it overhead. If you’re unsure of what to buy, try getting more than one. This way you can increase as you become stronger, and it will allow you to have multiple weighted medicine balls you can choose from depending on the part of your body you’re working on. Dazadi offers a selection of medicine ball sets such as the FitBALL Medicine Ball Set, which offers you 6 various sized medicine balls in one simple purchase.

• Cover: You can find medicine balls with many different types of covers such as rubber, vinyl, or leather. The surface of the ball can greatly affect the type of grip you get on the ball while in use. Whether you want a textured ball for superior grip like the JFit Premium Rubberized Medicine Ball, or a softer leather covered ball like the Champion Sports Leather Medicine Ball, at Dazadi you can find just about any type of ball to fit your comfort level and routine.

• Core: The type of core a medicine ball has affects the type of exercises you can perform. For a ball that can bounce, try a hollow rubber ball. Thrusting a ball against a surface can help you build arm strength and muscle tone. Balls with a soft gel or sand filled core, such as the FitBall Soft Meds, help you get a firm grasp on the ball and are a softer alternative if you are passing a medicine ball back and forth.

• Additional Options: Some medicine balls come equipped with specific options for ease of use. The most popular is the handle. Some balls come with handles built right into the construction of the ball like the JFit Premium Handle Medicine Ball, while others, like the FitBALL Medicine Ball with Straps, come with adjustable Velcro handles that can be strapped to your hands or legs for the ultimate grip. The Champion Sports Equipped Medicine Ball has a long rope firmly planted into the ball, so you can swing, chop, and throw the ball with security.

Simple exercises include holding a ball against your chest while doing sit-ups. This adds more weight forcing you to use more core muscles. You can also stand and hold the ball at your waist. Then simply lift the ball straight out in front of you and lower it. You can also lift it overhead. Combining the use of a medicine ball with an exercise ball is also extremely effective. You can sit up straight on an exercise ball, hold the ball at chest level, and twist slowly from side to side. This will help you strengthen your core and side abdominals. Or, with a partner stand a few feet apart facing each other. Hold the ball at chest level and thrust it back and forth. This will help build arm and chest strength while helping you work on explosiveness. The amount and type of exercises you can perform with a medicine ball are extensive. So, speak to a fitness professional, do an internet search for fun and effective workouts, and find an exercise that works for you.

Adding a medicine ball to your workout can also help you bring some fun and creativity into your routine. With tons of exercises available, you’ll be sure to find one that is not only effective, but something you look forward to doing everyday. Remember to find a ball that works for you and creates just enough challenge to slow your movement down a little. You’ll come to love how these little weighted balls keep you strong, toned, and in shape!

A brisk bike ride will exercise your calves, thighs and buttocks, increase your metabolism and offer an exceptional cardiovascular workout. However, not everyone has the time or the ability to bike through the mountains, around the beach or on a trail. The stationary exercise bike provides a comprehensive cardiovascular and calorie-burning workout with adjustable resistance, exercise programs and workout feedback. Also, a stationary bike allows you train from the privacy of your own home.

It is important when shopping for an exercise bike, that you consider factors such as comfort, adjustability, settings and information displayed. If you’re going to invest in a home gym, you’ll want to purchase the exercise equipment that meets your personal fitness needs.

There are two basic types of exercise bikes:

• The Upright Exercise Bike:  Offers cardiovascular and strength-building exercise that increases your metabolism for more efficient calorie and fat burning. By increasing your heart rate and working your lower body, you burn fat, strengthen and tone. The upright bike allows you to stand up, just as you would on a traditional mountain bike. In this position, you can increase the pace and intensity of your pedaling for a more concentrated workout. The upright bicycle also occupies minimal floor space and can be more conveniently stored. Dazadi offers a wide variety of options, from the more economical Stamina Magnetic Upright Bike (with quiet magnetic resistance, adjustable seat and one-button control) to the FreeMotion Upright c7.7 (with 20 levels of resistance, built-in workout programs and integrated entertainment features).

• The Recumbent Exercise Bike: Workout in semi-reclined position so you can strengthen aand tone the muscles in your hips, thighs and buttocks while protecting your lower back. This type of bike offers an effective low-impact workout to those who require increased support or desire enhanced comfort. With this type of equipment, you don’t get the same level of workout intensity that an upright bike provides. The Stamina Air Fusion Recumbent Bike is an economically priced option that offers wind resistance, dial tension control and a cushioned, meticulously aligned seat. The Stamina Magnetic Fusion 4545, Star Trac 4710 and LifeCore LC800RB offer smooth, quiet resistance and walk-through designs for an easier mount and dismount. Recumbent bikes are ideal for physical therapy because they offer low-impact, safe and effective workouts.

Comfort: An adjustable seat, handlebars and foot pedals are key for comfort and proper positioning. If you require improved lower back support, you’ll want to find a bike (most likely recumbent) that fits both your individual fitness and physical needs. The Star Trac 8730 with Arm Rests provides incredible comfort and support with a reclining back pad and swing away arm rests to enhance posture for a tension-free workout. The Stamina Magnetic Fusion 7250 features a padded, oversized adjustable seat that is molded for proper, comfortable form. This seat slides at a 45 degree leg angle to reduce stress on hips and joints and includes an aluminum seat rail with rollers for smooth seat adjustment. The weighted pedals features adjustable foot straps to work legs on upward and downward strokes and the integrated handlebars provide stability and support.

Resistance: There are two basic types of adjustable resistance. The more cheaply priced models use a tension belt. This method, while effective, is not as quiet or smooth as the alternative, magnetic resistance. Dazadi carries several magnetic resistance and magnetic fusion bikes that offer smooth pedaling and outstanding exercise benefits. The Stamina Magnetic Fusion Bikes, such as the Stamina 7100 offers smooth, quiet freewheel resistance that combines the biking feel of an upright with the comfort of a recumbent. This fusion exercise bike provides 8-level magnetic resistance which you control using the easy-to-reach tension dial. This adjustable tension capability allows you to determine the intensity of your workout. The FreeMotion Upright c7.7 features 20-levels of the custom-designed Electromagnetic Resistance System (ERS) that applies consistent resistance to the flywheel for low-impact workout that effectively targets individual fitness needs.  The QuickTouch feature allows you to adjust your exercise intensity or workout program at the simple touch of a button so you can simply and accurately target your individual goals. And, the Stamina Air Fusion 4525 innovatively combines air resistance with dial tension control for the biking feel of the upright with the comfort of the recumbent.

Heart Rate Monitoring: Monitoring your heart rate is crucial to an effective workout. Most exercise bikes have workout programs that are pulse-driven. Pulse can be assessed through an integrated pulse grip within the handlebars or through a telemetry strap. Most bikes offered on Dazadi.com feature integrated pulse monitors. The Kettler Me! Upright Bike, Lifecore LC900 and Star Trac 8620 are great options for accurate measuring and an efficient workout.

Built-In Workout Programs and Display Feedback:  Built-in workout programs allow you to work through a number of proven, pre-set workouts or build your own according to your fitness preferences. Some programs adjust according to a maximum heart rate while others concentrate on fat-burning or distance-covered. There are even programs that mimic the experience of biking on hills and other rough terrain. The display console can read anything from your heart rate, speed and distance to the number of calories you’ve burned, your minutes per mile, etc. This constant feedback allows you to track your progress and work toward fitness goals. Dazadi.com recommends once again the Star Trac 8620, the Kettler RX7 Recumbent (with programs ranging from pulse-directed training to pre-set pulse range for fat burning and fitness zones) and the FreeMotion r7.7.

Get the most from your workout with an exercise bike that meets your fitness and comfort needs!

Your swimming pool provides the ultimate summer escape. With Labor Day fast-approaching, you’ll want to enjoy your outdoor oasis to its fullest potential! Dazadi.com has just what you need for a comfortable float in the sun, a relaxing drift in the shade or some engaging aquatic entertainment! Dazadi’s selection is perfect for adults, children and even toddlers! We offer a wide range of high quality floats, chairs and loungers as well as inflatable toys, habitats and even mock arcade games. Find the ideal match for your summer sanctuary and get the most out of your beat the heat retreat!

Looking for a pool float that won’t let you down? The Unsinkable Molly Brown is made from soft, cushioning material that lets you sink into the lounger, not the pool! Unlike inflatables, this float never leaks and never needs patching! In fact, it’s backed by the manufacturer’s 100-year no sink warranty!  Or perhaps you’d prefer a full pool recliner? The Ultimate Floating Lounger and Siesta Floating Pool Lounger are roomy, durable and handy with ample neck and back support. These rugged floats also feature cup holders as well as compartments so a thirst-quenching drink or mp3 playlist are never out of reach! The Feel Good Pool Lounger with Canopy and Pool-N-Beach Double Pool Lounger include canopy tops that allow you to choose between sunbathing and shaded relaxation. And, the Pool-N-Beach Double Pool Lounger is big enough for two people! Take a friend for a shoreline cruise or a poolside float with your awesome aquatic accessories.

Everything you need for outdoor family fun is available on Dazadi.com. Bring home the ultimate in children’s pool toys with our multiple floating habitats, giant rideables and exciting games. The Pyramid, Cube, Sphere and UFO Floating Habitats add a touch of innovation and fantasy to swimming pool fun. Kids can explore these suspended environments for their most interesting and imaginative water games yet.  Or introduce our giant rideable Swan, Ducky and Rocking Seahorse for an adventure of epic proportions! The Starfighter Super Squirter Spaceship will take your little explorer on a thrilling space mission- ray gun and all! The Inflatable Arcade Shooter, inspired by the carnival gun race, brings the thrill of arcade games to your backyard. Fun for family and friends, see who can move all of the balls out of the tube first. The Giant Sea-Saw Rocker makes for a watery playground and the Floating Boat House will bring all hands on deck!

Toddlers can enjoy summertime activities too, with the U.S. Coast Guard Approved Children’s Life Jacket. Introduce your little one to the fun of swimming in the safety and security of a rugged, trusted life vest.  With so many exciting pooltime options, don’t let this summer leave you high and dry!

The soccer ball is a black and white symbol of what is considered by many to be the most popular sport in the world. For centuries, humans have been kicking around balls in many different forms. Originally, balls could have been made of human heads, cloth, animal or human skulls, and pig or cow bladders. Eventually, balls made of animal bladders were covered in leather for better air retention. In 1836, Charles Goodyear invented the first vulcanized rubber soccer ball and in 1862 the rubber bladder was created.

Since then, the design and make-up of soccer balls have changed pretty dramatically. Now, balls are made of synthetic materials including polyurethane and synthetic leather, which are better suited for air retention and water resistance. The appearance was also revolutionized by the creation of the “Buckminster ball.” Referring to the black and white 32-panel design we are used to, this style of ball is made up of 20 hexagon and 12 pentagon panels, which create a near perfect sphere.

Today, there is a soccer ball for every level of play. Whether you’re looking for a ball to kick around in your backyard or a serious top-quality soccer ball for your professional matches, you can find a great ball in a variety of colors, dimensions, and materials to suit your needs:

• Match Play – For serious, top-level play, match play soccer balls feature approval from FIFA, NFHS, or the NCAA because they meet specific size, shape, weight, and other specifications set up by the respective organizations. They are constructed of top-quality synthetic materials, can be used on multiple surfaces, and are waterproof. Try the Molten Elite Vantaggio Soccer Ball or the Brine International Soccer Ball.

• Practice – Practice soccer balls are a bit nicer than recreational soccer balls, but not quite as nice as match play balls. They are typically made out of synthetic materials such as polyurethane, but are machine sewn, which creates a looser fit between the panels. They are often the same size and shape as regulation soccer balls, but do not meet the requirements of FIFA, NFHS, or the NCAA. Options include the MacGregor Classic Soccer Ball and the Molten Competition Soccer Ball

• Recreational – Perfect for kicking in your backyard or for use in a P.E. class, recreational soccer balls feature a lower quality outer cover such as rubber or PVC. These are the least expensive soccer balls available. Recreational soccer balls may also feature fun, interesting colors and designs such as the Champion Sports Extreme Tie-Dye Soccer Ball or the US Games Hawaiian Soccer Balls.

• Indoor – Indoor soccer balls feature a soft felt or suede cover. They meet all of the same size and shape regulations as outdoor balls. Great indoor soccer balls include the Brine High Visibility Indoor Soccer Ball and the Voit Indoor Felt Soccer Ball.

• Futsal– Futsal soccer is an indoor variation of soccer. The main difference between the two is that the Futsal ball bladder is filled with foam, so that it bounces less. This factor makes the ball better for play on a harder surface. Try the Brine Lobo Futsal Ball or the Champion Sports Futsal Ball.

Size is also important when shopping for a soccer ball. Size 3 soccer balls are ideal for players ages 8 and under. Size 4 soccer balls are perfect for players ages 8-12. Size 5 soccer balls are suited for players 13 and up and are the standard size for most match balls.

Confidently buying the correct soccer ball for your specific needs may be just what you need to enjoy a great game of soccer.  You’ll join the millions of people around the world who have found the fun and fitness benefits of playing. Not only will you have a blast, but you’ll get a great cardiovascular workout that also works your calf and thigh muscles!