Medicine balls are weighted vinyl, polyurethane, or leather balls that are portable, easy to store and come in a rainbow of colors, shapes, and sizes (from the size of a baseball to a basketball). Some medicine balls have a textured surface or handle for easier gripping and others are inflatable and bounce. Leather balls do not bounce but can be used as a base to stand on for balance training. By using medicine balls of different weights and sizes, you can develop a total conditioning program consisting of throwing, catching and rotational movements. In our programs, we use color-coded balls so the instructors and participants can easily keep track of the loads they are using. Obviously, it is desirable to have medicine balls of different weights and sizes to accommodate the needs and abilities of all participants. Also, you will need smaller and lighter balls for one-arm exercises. While adults may use 6 to 12 lb balls for medicine ball training, youth should begin with 2 pound balls and gradually progress as strength and exercise technique improve. Remember, the quality of the movement is far more important than the weight of the ball.