How to Deflate an Exercise Ball

Deflating exercise balls is an easy task and makes storage convenient.

Exercise balls, such as stability, Pilates or medicine balls, are an effective form of workout equipment that people use for a variety of exercises. Some people like to use the exercise balls for a period of time and then use other equipment; however, in some cases, these exercise balls are hard to store because they are too big for storage areas. Whether you want to deflate the ball to make it smaller or for storage purposes, it can be easily done following a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Plug puller
• Air pump

Instructions

1. Place the ball on a hard surface or the floor and locate the valve stem cover. The valve stem cover is inserted into the inflation hole to trap air inside the exercise ball. It looks like a small disc, about a half-inch in diameter. In most cases, the valve will have tiny rings surrounding it.

2. Remove the valve stem cover with the plug puller that came with the exercise ball. Twist the valve back and forth in an upward motion until the valve is fully removed from the ball.

3. Use a dull butter knife or the tip of your fingernail to slowly lift around the edge of the valve if you do not have a plug puller. Firmly grasp the valve with the tips of your nails and pull the valve out.

4. Put pressure on the exercise ball. Squeeze the ball gently or lay on it to quickly force out the air.

5. Alternatively, use the air pump that came with exercise ball. Insert the pump into the valve. It will automatically release the air from the exercise ball.

References

• Balls 'N' Bands: Exercise Ball Plug Puller
• Balls 'N' Bands: Exercise Ball Pump