How to choose a massage ball

A massage ball lets you work into tight spots in your feet, glutes and shoulders using your own body weight. We'll help you pick the size, firmness and shape that suit how you'll use it.

Which massage ball suits you?

Options from our massage balls range, plus foam rollers for bigger muscles.

Small round massage ball
SMALL BALLS

Compact balls for feet, hands and smaller spots.

What to prioritise
Precise pressure

Massage Balls & Hand Massagers

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Large round massage ball
LARGER BALLS

Bigger balls that spread pressure over glutes and back.

What to prioritise
Broader areas

Massage Balls & Hand Massagers

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Peanut-shaped double massage ball
PEANUT AND DUO

Twin-ball shapes that sit either side of the spine.

What to prioritise
Along the back

Massage Balls & Hand Massagers

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Small spiky massage ball
SPIKY AND TEXTURED

Spiky textured balls for a livelier feel underfoot.

What to prioritise
Textured feel

Massage Balls & Hand Massagers

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Round vibrating massage ball
VIBRATING

Vibrating options that add vibration as you roll.

What to prioritise
Powered option

Massage Balls & Hand Massagers

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Long foam roller
BIGGER MUSCLES

Rollers for quads, calves and the upper back.

What to prioritise
Pairs well

Foam Roller & Muscle Rollers

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What to look for in a massage ball

A size that suits the spot

Smaller balls get into feet, hands and tight corners around the shoulder blades. Larger balls spread the pressure, which many people find more comfortable on the glutes and back.

How firm it feels

Firmer balls give deeper pressure, softer ones feel gentler. If you're new to self-massage, start on the softer side, or use a firm ball against a wall so you control the pressure.

Smooth, spiky or twin

Smooth balls roll evenly, while spiky ones add a textured feel that some people like underfoot. Peanut or duo shapes sit either side of the spine, so the ball itself stays off it.

Gentle and safe use

Roll over muscle, not over bones or joints, and skip any area that's injured or swollen. If pain lingers or gets worse, stop and see a GP or physio.

Who they're for

Runners and walkers

A small ball under the foot or a larger one on the glutes is an easy way to unwind after time on your feet.

Desk workers

Leaning against a wall with a ball between your shoulder blades is a simple reset after hours at a desk.

Gym goers and travellers

A massage ball packs into a gym bag or suitcase, so you can roll out wherever you're training.

Massage balls at a glance

OptionBest forGood to know
Small massage ballFeet, hands and smaller spotsEasy to pack in a gym bag
Large massage ballGlutes, hips and upper backSpreads pressure more widely
Peanut or duo ballEither side of the spineKeeps pressure off the spine itself
Spiky massage ballA textured feel underfootStart gently, it can feel intense
Vibrating massage ballAdding vibration as you rollCharge and care as the product guide says
Foam rollerLarger muscles like quads and calvesCovers more ground than a ball

Keep your massage ball in good shape

  • Wipe the ball clean after use and let it dry.
  • Keep it out of direct sun and away from heaters.
  • Store it somewhere it can't roll underfoot.
  • For vibrating balls, follow the charging and care guidance on the product page.

Frequently asked questions

What size massage ball should I get?

It depends on where you'll use it. A small ball is good for the soles of your feet, your hands and tight spots around the shoulder blades, while a larger ball spreads the pressure and often feels better on the glutes, hips and back. Many people keep one of each, or start with a peanut ball for the back and a small ball for the feet.

Is a smooth or spiky massage ball better?

Neither is better, they just feel different. A smooth ball rolls evenly and suits most areas, while spikes add a textured, more intense feel that some people enjoy underfoot. If you're unsure, start with a smooth ball and try a spiky one once you know how much pressure you like.

How do I use a massage ball on my back?

Stand with your back to a wall and place the ball between the wall and the muscle beside your spine or shoulder blade. Lean in gently and make small movements, easing off if it feels too much. A peanut or duo ball sits either side of the spine, so you're never rolling on the spine itself.

How long should I use a massage ball for?

Short, gentle sessions are a good place to start. Move slowly, breathe normally and keep the pressure at a level that feels like a good stretch rather than pain. You can build up over time as you get used to it, and there's no need to push hard to feel the benefit.

When should I avoid using a massage ball?

Avoid rolling directly on bones, joints, or any area that's injured or swollen, and stop if anything feels numb. If you're pregnant, have a health condition or are recovering from an injury, check with your GP or physio first. If pain lingers or gets worse after rolling, stop and get it looked at.

Roll out the tight spots

Pick the ball that suits how you'll use it and keep it somewhere handy. The rest of our recovery gear is ready when you are.

Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.

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Man in a grey tank top using a ball head massager on his chest in a dimly lit gym