Evidence Now In

The risks of exposure to various classes of phthalates (plastic softeners used to make PVC soft and elastic) have been recognised for many years. Recently however a fuller understanding has been gained through various international research programs.  Studies by the University of Rochester Medical Center and the Mount Sinai Children’s Medical Health Center have shown various links to poor health outcomes as a result of phthalate exposure.

The primary risk is through injestion by chewing plastics directly or by eating food stuffs stored or processed in contact with plastics.  However while the risk of exposure via exercise products would appear to be low, users such as children or pregnant women should avoid using products containing phthalates until more research is completed.

AOK philosophy is to supply the highest quality and safest products available.  At the time of this publication we are aware of no other swiss or exercise ball manufacturer who does not use phthalates in their products. This is particularly true of Chinese manufactured balls.

For additional information regarding phthalates you should with Australia’s leading authorities – the Vinyl Association and the Phthalate Information Association.

For other safety tips you should visit www.mediball.com

AOK & NSW Fire Brigade Workshop

My personal observations over a number of years is that there is very little care taken in inspecting balls in a gym to ensure that they have not been inadvertantly or maliciously damaged – afterall balls are made of elastic plastic and should have tighter controls than conventional gym equipment.

For many years AOK has prided itself in providing the best quality exercise balls for the fitness, sports coaching and rehabilitation markets. Safety in care and use has always been paramount at AOK and we have developed many tools for commercial and home users to help ensure the safety of ball users.