As I opened every Christmas guide this year, there was something I had never seen before- massage guns, so many massage guns (my most recent reviews are here and here). But, there was something else in the ads- a self-care tool that has recently gained popularity, the vibrating massage ball.
RubBall was kind enough to send me a sample. They quickly shipped me one and I have been using it over the last month. Like all other reviews, I ask family, friends, and clients to give it a try and provide feedback on things I may have missed. Here is what we liked and how you can make the most of this massage tool.
Who is this massage tool for?
Some massage tools are not for everyone. This is tool is most ideal for anyone that can safely have a massage and is in need of pain or injury relief and recovery. It is also popular with athletes, recreational or competitive, for workout recovery.
How big is the RubBall?
The RubBall is large with a 5-inch diameter. It is larger than a lacrosse ball and similar in diameter to the average foam roller.
The RubBall is not light. It feels about the same weight as a massage gun, a few pounds.
What does it feel like?
It is hard with “a textured rubber exterior”. If you have ever used a lacrosse ball for massage, this is bigger and just as hard. The RubBall is definitely firmer than a massage roller. So, if you enjoy using a lacrosse ball or a foam roller on certain areas for relief, you may be able to use this firm ball with the added benefit of vibration.
How does the RubBall work?
The RubBall uses vibration. In my opinion, it is not a replacement for a massage gun, which uses percussion.
Vibration does have benefits and massage therapists, chiropractors, and physical therapists use vibration for a variety of therapeutic reasons. Here are a few benefits of vibration.
Where and how to use this tool
It is best on the large muscles on the lower half of the body -glutes, hamstrings, thigh adductors, or the IT band.
It also can be used on the hands, abdomen, pectorals, arms, and feet. As for the feet, many reported it was very helpful for plantar fasciitis. In several reviews, users reported some dramatic results with this common condition, which can be a literal pain to manage.
You can also use the RubBall on a wall. However, I do find it too large and cumbersome to make this work on my back using this method due to its size. I preferred using it on a mat thicker than a yoga mat. My daughter’s gymnastics thin mat was ideal. I also enjoyed using it if I sat on a soft surface, such as a couch sofa, recliner, or mattress. This allowed me to work glutes, hamstrings, or back and shoulder issues with some less intense pressure, but the benefits of vibration.
This tool is passive- meaning you can just put it under my glutes or calves and relax. No holding onto a massage gun or other tool, just letting the tool work while you relax. But, it can be actively used like a foam roller too.
Battery indicator lights surround the power button on one side. On the other side of the power button, there are three other lights that indicate which level of intensity you are using. Charging is easy using the included power cord.
Pros
Cons
This tool is intense enough to shake my floor and hear all over our house if used on the carpet. If you have an apartment, this will shake the whole house or complex, and I would expect neighbors to complain. The vibration really is that intense.
Get Your Own
I admit, when I first received the RubBall, I was a little skeptical. But after reading reviews and learning how to use it, it became clear that it had some definite benefits over other tools. It is one I will keep and use regularly.
Maybe you have used a vibrating massage ball at physical therapy or seen it at your gym, and are looking to get one to use at home.
The RubBall retails for around $129.00. That may be a sticker-shock and will keep many from trying this tool out. But like many said this unit is easily the cost of a couple of massage or physical therapy sessions. For people that find relief from it, it is well worth the cost.
I have seen other vibrating massage balls that had issues with lasting only a short amount of time before having issues with the unit. RubBall does offer a warranty of two years, which puts me at ease with this recommendation.
If you don’t mind the price, love trying the latest massage tool, or looking for another tool to add to your injury recovery selection, you can find and purchase the RubBall vibrating massage ball here.
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