Fix it
Medicine Ball Troubleshooting (2026)
Fixes for common medicine ball problems: a ball that slips, a shell that splits, a ball that bounces wrong, and a smell that will not fade.
Most medicine ball problems come from using the wrong type for the job, or from a shell that has had a hard life. Work through the fixes below in order, starting with the grip and the job, before assuming the ball has failed.
The ball keeps slipping from my hands
Chalk your hands first, since sweat is the usual cause, and check that you are gripping the ball with both hands spread wide rather than pinching it. A textured or treaded ball grips better than a smooth one, so if the problem persists, switch to a ball with a deeper grip, like the Yes4All slam ball, or use the SPRI Dual Grip ball for rotational work. Wipe the ball clean, since dust and chalk build-up make any shell slippery over time.
The shell has split or is leaking sand
Stop using the ball at once, since a split shell will only get worse and sand on the floor is a slip hazard. A split usually means the ball was slammed when it was not built for it, or slammed on a sharp edge or rough concrete. Check the maker guidance: wall balls are not meant for slams, and even slam balls need a mat or a smooth floor. Replace the ball rather than patching it, since a patched shell will split again at the same spot.
The ball bounces when it should not, or will not bounce when it should
Check the type first: a slam ball is sand-filled and should not bounce, while a rubber medicine ball should bounce cleanly. If a slam ball bounces, the filling may have shifted or the ball may be the wrong type for slams. If a rubber ball will not bounce, it may be under-filled or damaged, or the floor may be too soft: try it on a hard floor. A ball that has lost its shape will not behave properly, and it is time to replace it.
The ball smells strongly and the smell will not fade
Air the ball out of its packaging for a day or two in a ventilated room, since most new rubber and PVC balls smell strongly at first. Wipe it with a damp cloth and a little mild soap, then let it dry fully. Do not soak the ball, and do not store it in a sealed box or a hot car, since heat and trapped air make the smell worse. If the smell is still strong after a week of airing, the ball may be a lower-grade rubber, and a different brand will smell less.
Questions, answered
Why does my wall ball feel lopsided?
The filling has shifted to one side, which happens when a soft ball is stored on its side or thrown unevenly. Roll the ball firmly on the floor to redistribute the filling, and store it on a flat surface rather than leaning against a wall. If it stays lopsided, the filling has settled permanently and the ball needs replacing.
Can I use a medicine ball outside?
Yes, on a smooth surface, but rough concrete and sharp stones will scuff and split any shell over time. Rubber and PVC balls handle outdoor use better than leather and PU leather shells. Wipe the ball after outdoor use and store it dry, out of direct sunlight.
When should I replace a medicine ball?
Replace it when the shell splits, the filling leaks, the ball loses its shape, or the grip wears smooth. A ball that has gone soft or lopsided will not train properly and can strain your hands and shoulders. A well-kept ball lasts years, but a ball used for the wrong job can fail in weeks.