FAQ
What are balance boards and what are they used for?
Balance boards are used for training in all sports and rehabilitation fields to assist with the development of a skill required in every movement we make. With a platform on top on an unstable fulcrum or ground contacting member, like a roller or a rock, the board moves in unexpected directions, creating conditions that stimulate, exercise and train the parts of the body and brain responsible for developing a sense of balance.
Who uses a balance board?
Balance boards are used by:
- athletes and sports people who want to be at their peak when performing their chosen sport
- fitness instructors and personal trainers
- physiotherapists for effective injury rehabilitation
- people who want fun and challenging ways to compete against others, either in social or sporting environments
- anyone who wants to build their core strength, balance, co-ordination and agility skills
Is the Gyroboard a balance board?
The Gyroboard is more than a balance board. It also simulates the conditions experienced by extreme sports board riders, allowing participants of these sports to learn how to do tricks and moves in relative safety off the slopes, water or concrete, before trying them in the sport’s natural outdoor arenas.
What is the difference between Gyroboard and other balance boards?
The most obvious difference is that the Gyroboard is higher off the ground and fixed to it’s fulcrum, the spring. The Gyroboard has a unique braking mechanism that allows the board to spin at different speeds, according to the rider’s current level of skill. Most balance boards require you to purchase a new, complete unit (board and fulcrum) once you have mastered the level the board is aimed at. They also only wobble, rock or tilt. The Gyroboard does all three movements. It is effective for fitness, recreational and extreme sports training, as well as injury rehabilitation.
How do the two versions of the Gyroboard differ?
The two version of the Gyroboard are built for different training aspects. The “fun and extreme” model is built for specific boarding purposes. Next to the smaller board it features a higher spring. This allows more rotation and higher flexibility to simulate any type of boarding as well as tricks. The “health and fitness” version has a larger flat board and a lower spring. Therefore, it is specifically designed for fitness as well as rehabilitation exercises, reducing the possibility of injury.
What is the Gyroboard made of?
The deck is made of 9 ply maple, on top of a high quality steel spring. The legs and Gyroboard mechanism are made of aluminium, keeping the Gyroboard weight as low as possible at 9kg.
What is the maximum weight limit on your decks?
We recommend a maximum weight limit of 135kg.
Who can use the Gyroboard?
We recommend the Gyroboard for people aged 8 years and over. The Gyroboard is designed to be used by any level of rider, from beginner to extreme sportsperson. Beginners and children should start off using the Gyroboard under the supervision of an adult or experienced rider.
Is the Gyroboard safe?
If you follow the recommended safety code printed in the manual, and use the Gyroboard to your level of ability, or under supervision when required (children, beginners, or people with injuries being rehabilitated), you should have a fun and enjoyable Gyroboard experience.
Where was the Gyroboard invented?
The Gyroboard was invented in Kaiapoi, Canterbury, New Zealand, the Land of Extreme and the Home of Champions. The concept was born in the early 2000s and over six years has gone into research, development and testing before releasing the Ultimate Sports Board onto the market.