Balance board vs wobble board vs rocker board – What’s the difference?
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The offer on the balance board market is enormous today. There are so many models and types that one can easily get confused about which to get. I’d like to set it straight for you and explain what’s the difference between different balance boards, specifically balance board vs wobble board vs rocker board.
What is a balance board?
Usually, a balance board is literally a board that is placed on a cylindrical roller. A person has to stand on a board with both feet and maintain balance on it.
Often it is a wooden board, about an inch thick with a rough surface on the one side to place feet on and two ledges on the bottom side to prevent it from slipping out.
The roller is usually made out of hard PVC or similar material and is usually about 7 inches in diameter. While there are so many balance board modifications out there, they all share the same principle.
There are some exceptions to that principle, not always does a balance board has a roller. It depends on its type.
Balance board types
Balance boards come in three main types:
- Rocker board
- Wobble board
- Roller board (usually referred to as a balance board)
Each balance board type has a unique design, use, and difficulty level.
Rocker
The design of a rocker board is simple and straightforward, usually, it’s a wooden board with a rocker attached to its bottom. These types of balance boards are simple and easy to use as compared to the other balance board types.
In some cases the rocker represents half a cylinder that goes along the board’s length, in others, it’s two semi-spheres located on the opposite sides of the board.
It allows you to rock on the board only forwards and backward or from side to side if you change position.
Rocker boards are a good starting point to train balance.
Wobble
Wobble board design includes a board and a fulcrum (called wobbler) usually in the shape of a half-sphere attached to it. Its design allows rocking the board in any direction or 360 degrees if you will.
The material of a wobbler can be soft or hard, which makes it easy or difficult to balance.
Sometimes a wobbler can be a special inflatable cushion. On top of which you can place the board.
Wobble boards can be a bit challenging as compared to a rocker board. They are widely used in fitness and therapy.
Cushion
A cushion is an additional accessory that often comes bundled with the balance board. It is made from soft materials and is usually inflatable.
A cushion acts in a similar way as a wobble board. You have to inflate the cushion and place it under a board.
You can set the difficulty by inflating the cushion more which will make it more “springy”, or less thus making it softer and easier to balance.
Roller
A roller board or often known as a balance board. Usually, it’s a wooden board that is placed on top of a plastic cylindrical roller.
This is one of the harder balance board types to master. Unlike rocker and wobble boards this one has a moving part – a roller. It is much harder to keep balance as compared to previous types.
Although the main concept of the roller board is the same, some design features may differ depending on the model and vendor.
Roller boards are widely used in fitness, sports, and recreational activities. Many professional athletes use roller balance boards in their training routine.
Difference between balance board vs wobble board vs rocker board
| Balance board | Wobble board | Rocker board | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Hard | Medium | Easy |
| Base | Flat with moving cylinder | Soft cushion like | Hard rocker |
| Shape | Rectangular/Oval | Round | Square/Rectangular |
| Avg. size | 30″ x 16″ | 16″ | 24″ x 15″ |
| Avg. weight limit | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 350 lbs |
| Used for | balance training fitness core training sports tricks | balance training fitness seniors physical therapy ankle rehab standing desk | balance training ankle rehab standing desk |
Best balance boards
INDO BOARD Original
Key features
- One of the most popular brands
- Quality durable materials
- Indestructible molded plastic cylinder
- Weight limit up to 250 lbs
- Offers a wide variety of exercises
The Indo Board Original Balance Board is a versatile and dynamic roller-type balance board that caters to users of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
This balance board boasts a generous deck measuring 30” x 18”, constructed from high-quality cabinet-grade Birchwood. The deck’s surface is thoughtfully finished with a non-slip texture, ensuring your feet stay firmly in place during use.
On the underside of the board, you’ll find two strategically placed ledges. These ledges play a pivotal role in preventing the board from slipping out of control while you embark on your balance training journey. With a deck thickness of approximately 0.6 inches, this balance board strikes the perfect balance between stability and challenge.
What truly sets the Indo Board Original Balance Board apart is its roller. This roller is an indestructible molded plastic cylinder with a diameter of 6.5 inches. To enhance your grip and contact with the roller, it features three strips of grip tape. The roller itself is sleek black, adorned with two stickers on the sides for added style and visibility.
The versatility of the Indo Board Original Balance Board knows no bounds. It can be utilized by individuals at various skill levels, thanks to its dynamic design. Whether you’re a novice seeking balance improvement or an advanced user looking for a new challenge, this roller board has you covered.
For a more comprehensive review of the Indo Board Original Balance Board, I recommend checking out my detailed article on the subject.
| Deck dimensions | 30” X 18” (76.2 x 45.7 cm) |
| Deck thickness | 0.6” (1.5 cm) |
| Roller size | 6.5” (16.5 cm) diameter |
| Weight limit | 250 lbs (113 kg) |
| Deck construction | 11/16” (27/40 cm) Cabinet-grade, Baltic Birch plywood with a non-slip surface |
| Roller construction | indestructible molded plastic with three strips of grip tape |
| Cushion size | 14” (35.5 cm) in diameter, mouth-inflatable, adjustable |
Yes4All Balance Board
Key features
- PEVA surface prevents slipping
- Has 3 difficulty levels
- Weight limit up to 300 lbs
- Wooden roller with an anti-slip TPE cover
- Has a 3-in-1 option
The Yes4All Balance Board Trainer is a versatile fitness tool suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Crafted from durable hardwood and featuring a PEVA surface, this balance board ensures a secure grip to prevent slipping or falling during your workouts. While it’s comfortable to use barefoot, wearing shoes with anti-slip soles can further enhance stability.
This balance board boasts bombproof construction, with the added benefit of two stoppers designed to facilitate even the most challenging tricks. You can easily tailor the difficulty of your exercises with three different distance options: 11, 16, and 22 inches, with the 11-inch setting ideal for beginners.
The comprehensive set includes a wooden roller with an anti-slip TPE cover, making it suitable for use on various flooring types such as wood, carpet, cork, and concrete. For a more in-depth review, be sure to check out our dedicated article on the Yes4All balance board.
| Deck size | 29” x 11” (73.6 x 27.9 cm) |
| Roller size | 21.3” x 4″ (54.1 x 10 cm) diameter |
| Weight limit | 300 lbs (136 kg) |
| Deck construction | Hardwood with a PEVA surface |
| Roller construction | Wooden roller with an anti-slip TPE cover |
Revbalance 101 v2
Key features
- Has multiple difficulty levels
- Weight limit up to 400 lbs
- High-quality manufacturing
- Has two roller grip strips on the bottom
- 4.5-inch in diameter smooth cylinder
Introducing an upgraded iteration of the all-around balance board from Revbalance. This balance board boasts a sleek and minimalist design, making it an ideal choice for individuals ranging from beginners to those seeking advanced challenges.
The deck, measuring a spacious 29.5 x 11 inches, is crafted from solid multi-ply hardwood. It features a Durasoft Traction surface on top, offering an excellent blend of cushioning and foot grip.
Underneath the board, you’ll find two roller grip strips that enhance stability and ensure a secure grip during your workouts. Additionally, two robust roller stops are included to prevent any accidental slips.
The roller itself is a smooth 4.5-inch diameter cylinder, providing a versatile platform for various exercises. With the Revbalance 101 balance board, you can target overall balance and coordination, while also mastering advanced moves like one-footed balancing, squats, and squat holds. For a more detailed analysis, don’t forget to explore my comprehensive review article on the Revbalance 101 balance board.
| Deck size | 29.5” x 11” (74.9 x 27.9 cm) |
| Roller size | 20” x 4.5″ (50 x 11 cm) diameter |
| Weight limit | 400 lbs (181 kg) |
| Deck construction | Solid multi-ply hardwood with Durasoft Traction surface |
| Roller construction | Smooth PVE cylinder |
Best wobble boards
Yes4All Wooden Wobble Balance Board
Key features
- Moves 360 degrees
- Good beginner’s choice
- Weight limit up to 300 lbs
- Heavy-duty wooden deck
- Secure non-slip surface
The Yes4All Wooden Wobble Balance Board is a crowd-favorite for a reason. It perfectly balances quality, functionality, and affordability.
Safety is paramount in balance boards, and this one excels with its anti-skid surface. It provides a secure grip, accommodating up to 300 lbs with its generous 15.75-inch diameter.
Versatility is the key. This board offers 360-degree rotation and up to 15 degrees of tilt, allowing a wide range of exercises from side-to-side movements to circular drills.
What sets it apart is portability. Its lightweight design means you can use it at home, the gym, or even under your standing desk at the office for a discreet yet effective workout.
However, over time, some users found the sandpaper surface can wear out, making it slippery. Applying skateboard grip tape can fix this.
While the board excels in stability, it may be too stable for those seeking a significant balance challenge. It’s ideal for rehabilitation or seniors looking to improve their balance safely.
Conversely, if you’re already adept at balancing, this board might not offer the challenge you seek, as it leans more toward stability.
Lastly, durability: The anti-skid pads, though functional, may wear out with heavy daily use, especially with hard-soled shoes.
In conclusion, the Yes4All Wooden Wobble Balance Board strikes the right balance between stability, versatility, and affordability. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or in need of rehabilitation, it’s an excellent fitness tool that delivers results, with a little maintenance along the way.
| Deck | Solid Wood material |
| Fulcrum | Plastic, 3″ |
| Size | 15.75″ diameter |
| Surface | Non-skidding surface |
| Weight Limit | 300 lbs |
EveryMile Wobble Balance Board
Key features
- Moves 360 degrees
- Good beginner’s choice
- Weight limit up to 300 lbs
- Made from heavy-duty plastic
- No-skid tear-resistant surface
The EveryMile Wobble Balance Board is an innovative choice for enhancing your balance, stability, and core strength. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or looking to boost your overall fitness, this board offers unique features while prioritizing safety.
Crafted from durable plastic and TPR material, it’s designed to withstand regular use, making it a reliable choice for home workouts. However, its standout feature is the textured anti-slip surface, providing exceptional traction and grip. This addresses concerns about slipping during exercises, ensuring your safety even if you’re new to balance boards.
The 15.7″ diameter platform, while accommodating, may not be spacious enough for taller individuals or those seeking more stability. If you’re under 6 feet tall, it’s suitable for various exercises, but taller users may find it less stable.
To enhance the board’s grip further, consider using textured socks or applying textured spray paint, as some users have found success with these solutions.
While the board’s durability is commendable, some users have reported creaking noises over time. However, its potential for improvement is evident. By addressing grip issues on the platform and minimizing creaking, EveryMile could further enhance this already promising product.
In conclusion, the EveryMile Wobble Balance Board offers a safe and effective means to enhance balance and core strength. With some minor enhancements in grip and potential improvements in longevity, it could become an excellent addition to your fitness routine, especially if you prioritize safety during workouts.
| Deck | Heavy-duty plastic |
| Fulcrum | Plastic, 3.94″ |
| Size | 15.7″ diameter |
| Surface | No-skid tear-resistant surface |
| Weight Limit | 300 lbs |
Fitterfirst Professional Balance Board
Key features
- Moves 360 degrees
- Good beginner’s choice
- Weight limit up to 300 lbs
- Made from durable birch plywood
- Non-slip surface
The Fitterfirst Professional Balance Board stands out as a versatile and durable tool to enhance your fitness routine, whether you’re at home, in the office, or in a rehabilitation center.
Designed to support individuals of all backgrounds and fitness levels, from athletes seeking a challenge to those recovering from injuries, this fitness balancing rocker board provides a stable platform for various exercises.
Crafted from robust 3/4″ birch plywood, it ensures both safety and longevity. The non-slip top surface offers a secure grip for different types of footwear or bare feet, promoting stability during your workouts.
One of the key features of the Fitterfirst board is its tri-level adjustable sphere. With settings at 15, 17, and 20 degrees, users have the flexibility to choose their preferred difficulty level. Whether you’re just starting or looking for a more intense challenge, this board adapts to your needs.
While some users found it slightly less challenging than expected, especially with prolonged use, it remains a reliable choice for those striving to improve balance, core strength, and overall stability. Its durable build, adjustable settings, and suitability for various fitness levels make it a valuable addition to your fitness equipment collection.
In summary, the Fitterfirst Professional Balance Board offers versatility and durability to support your fitness journey. Its tri-level adjustable sphere allows users to tailor the difficulty level to their needs, making it a valuable tool for balance training and rehabilitation.
| Deck | Birch plywood |
| Fulcrum | Plastic, 3.25″ |
| Size | 16″ diameter |
| Surface | Easy-grip slip-resistant surface |
| Weight Limit | 300 lbs |
Best rocker boards
StrongTek Professional Wooden Rocker Balance Board
Key features
- Good beginner’s choice
- Weight limit up to 350 lbs
- Doesn’t have moving parts
- Made out of heavy-duty plywood
- Has anti-slip/anti-scratch pads on the bottom
The StrongTek Rocker Board is the perfect entry point for anyone looking to kickstart their balance training journey. As a rocker board, it boasts a unique feature: it has no moving parts, making it a top choice for beginners.
The top of this board offers an easy-grip surface that’s not only gentle on bare feet but also ensures you stay securely in place during your exercises.
Constructed from heavy-duty plywood, the StrongTek Rocker Board guarantees long-lasting strength and durability. It’s designed to accommodate both kids and adults, with an impressive weight capacity of up to 350 lbs.
To safeguard your floor and maintain a peaceful workout environment, this board is equipped with unique anti-slip pads on the bottom. These pads provide exceptional protection without generating disruptive noise.
Notably, the StrongTek Rocker Board is particularly well-suited for physical therapy and even standing desks. It serves as an excellent tool for enhancing overall balance and stability, as well as building physical strength and endurance. Whether you’re a beginner or on the path to recovery, this rocker board is your trusted companion in achieving your fitness goals.
| Deck dimensions | 23.5 × 15.75 × 4 in (60 × 40 × 10 cm) |
| Item Weight | 5 lbs (2.3 kg) |
| Weight Limit | 350 lbs (158 kg) |
| Material | Heavy-duty plywood |
Blue Planet Wooden Balance Board Trainer
Key features
- Good beginner’s choice
- Weight limit up to 500 lbs
- Doesn’t have moving parts
- Has a choice of grip surface
- Has a 3-in-1 design (removable modules)
The Blue Planet Wooden Balance Board Trainer is a versatile and dynamic training tool that offers a unique 3-in-1 design, making it an exceptional choice for individuals looking to enhance their strength, fitness, and overall balance.
What sets this innovative board apart is its adaptability, allowing users to easily modify the intensity of their workouts. Attachable fulcrums or modules make it simple to tailor exercises to meet specific fitness goals.
The deck provides three distinct grip options: EVA Foam for comfortable barefoot workouts, Clear Skate, and Black Skate Grip. With a generous width of 25 inches, skateboard-like curved upends, and anti-slip pads on the bottom, it ensures both stability during exercises and floor protection, making it suitable for home-based workouts.
While some users have mentioned the slightly rough texture of the EVA-topped version, this is a minor concern when considering the board’s overall quality and versatility. The Blue Planet Wooden Balance Board Trainer proves to be an excellent choice for individuals seeking to improve their core strength through engaging and adaptable workouts.
| Deck dimensions | 25 × 12.25 in (63 × 31 cm) |
| Item Weight | 6 lbs (2.7 kg) |
| Weight Limit | 500 lbs (226 kg) |
| Material | Bamboo/plywood |
PACEARTH Professional Wooden Balance Board
Key features
- Good beginner’s choice
- Weight limit up to 400 lbs
- Doesn’t have moving parts
- Made out of heavy-duty Beech wood
- Has anti-slip/anti-scratch pads on the bottom
The PACEARTH rocker balance board stands out as a sturdy and long-lasting addition to your fitness equipment. Crafted from high-quality Beech wood, this board boasts an impressive weight capacity of up to 400 lbs, ensuring durability for a variety of users.
What sets the PACEARTH balance board apart is its robust 3-foot bottom support, enhancing its longevity compared to similar boards. On top of that, the board’s surface offers an easy-grip texture that’s gentle on bare feet while ensuring a secure footing. With nonskid feet designed to perform admirably on various surfaces, including concrete, wood, cork, or carpet, you can exercise with confidence.
Furthermore, the inclusion of anti-slip and anti-scratch pads on the bottom of the board not only enhances stability but also safeguards your floors. It’s worth noting that the bottom pad, although affixed with glue, may require occasional reinstallation to maintain optimal performance.
| Deck dimensions | 17 × 13 × 3.7 in (43 × 33 × 9 cm) |
| Item Weight | 5 lbs (2.3 kg) |
| Weight Limit | 400 lbs (181 kg) |
| Material | Wood |
Conclusion
To sum up, there are three main balance board types rocker, wobble, and roller. Each one has its own unique traits, features, and uses. The bottom line for choosing between a balance board vs wobble board vs rocker board is:
If you’re a complete beginner or just want to strengthen your ankles get a rocker board.
If you’re more into fitness and improving strength and coordination get a wobble board.
If you want to significantly improve your balance and diversify your training routine get a roller board (balance board).