Fitness Balls Recalled from Gyms, Department Stores, and Sporting Goods Retailors Following Explosions

Sarah Cool

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US News and World Report publicizes that EB Brands has recalled about 3 million fitness balls from gyms and stores in the previous weeks. Fitness balls are generally used for physical therapy and exercise. The balls are made of a soft PVC inflated with air. The balls recalled by EB were sold between May of 2000 and February of 2009, in various colors and with various logos. Each of the fitness balls was 55, 65, or 75 centimeters in diameter, and was packaged along with instructions for inflation and use. However, some of the balls have been over-inflated, leading to the balls exploding unexpectedly. After 47 of the balls unexpectedly burst while in use, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced EB’s voluntary recall. Concerns were raised about injuries following a burst ball – the sudden deflation of the ball could cause a user to fall. Of the 47 reported incidents, many resulted in bruises and fractures. If you have purchased a fitness ball with a Bally Total Fitness, Everlast, or Valeo logo prior to May 2000, call 800-624-5671 for instructions on how to safely deflate the ball. Instructions are also available online through the SunSentinel.com website.