CoolBoard Instructions
Care:
Like all sports equipment that is used, there is the possibility of damage, to the board, the ball, your surroundings and yourself. Keep reading to minimise the chances.
CoolBoardtm is recommended for indoor use only. Flat surfaces are better to ride on and the board and especially the ball will wear on rougher and irregular surfaces. That said, it’s your board, ride it where you like.
If you dirty your CoolBoardtm, wipe clean with a slightly soapy cloth, and dry immediately – CoolBoard does not like being wet.
For adult users, the smaller ball is meant as a training ball. Due to its size, it endures far higher forces, and thus is not recommended for constant use as it will eventually give out.
You will enjoy riding the larger ball more as it has a more fluid movement, so progress up when you can.
After a lot of heavy riding the ball may start to loose its shape, (this took me months of severe testing and I’m not light). Your ride will then be improved by replacing the ball. This can be done at some common sports shops, but to make sure you get the right type, visit us at www.CoolBoard.co.uk.
The ball may also be damaged by over-inflation, see below.
If you break the rules and use your CoolBoardtm outside, remember you can scuff splinters at the ends, which could catch your mum’s carpet. Your punishment for breaking the rules… sand the ends smooth again. Re-lacquering is recommended afterwards
And remember, like so many things that are fun and exciting, there is an element of risk whenever you push your limits – which includes your first go. So when starting, or taking your skill to the next level, remember that your coffee table is stronger than your head and your china breaks when it hits the floor.
Starting to Ride:
First things first, get some air into those balls. Please see recommended pressures on the back page.
CoolBoardtm is quick to learn, but often a shock to get on at first….. remember trying to ride a bike for the first time?
The use of protective clothing – wrist, elbow and knee guards and a helmet for example should be considered.
Start with the smaller ball, it makes getting up easier. However, this ball can only be used permanently by light riders, and is meant as a training ball for the rest of us.
Place the board on the ball so the ball is inside the ring towards one end. Place your feet in the center of each foot pad.
To help, we always recommend starting close to a solid support (e.g. Kitchen counter, secure sideboard, back of a sofa) such that you can pull yourself up onto the board with your arms and find the balance point. Be close enough such that you’re not overly reaching for your support
Now you are balancing, get used to the movement whilst holding on. Try some gentle and then some exaggerated movements to get the feel of it, returning back to the balance point. When you feel ready, try letting go for a bit.
Ok, so now you’re up. Keep playing, and gently push your ability. There are many different styles of riding, giving different benefits and vibes, so mix it up and see what you can do – balance on the spot, get down low, walk the board, wang it about, dance, and then try some tricks…
Don’t forget to move up to the larger ball when you can, as the ride is better, and the ball will last much much longer.
Adjusting the ride:
The speed and vigour of CoolBoardtm can be altered in a few ways
Harder, smoother surfaces are faster to ride. Thus carpet is slower and is a good choice for beginners.
The harder the ball, the quicker the ride. However, too hard and the irregularities of the ball can be felt through the board, and the ball may be damaged.
Vice-versa is also true, so beginners should start with slightly less pressure to slow the ride. However, the ball should be firm enough such that it can roll under the board when in use.
As a guide, 15 to 20 p.s.i. is recommended, but this will be slightly affected by the rider’s weight. Lower than 15 p.s.i., and the board’s movement becomes so slow it’s tricky. Harder than 20 p.s.i. and I worry about the ball’s longevity, and can feel the ball’s irregularities, but boy it’s a good fast ride.
CoolBoardtm can be used as a wobble board. This obviously loses a lot of what CoolBoardtm can do, but can be useful for rehabilitation and novices needing a smaller first step. To do this, lower the pressure in the ball until it no longer rolls under the board when you’re on it. I recently tried this and found that it required some different skills, thus making it a worthwhile exercise in its own right. I deflated my ball until the board was only 5cm above the ground when I stood on it.
Why not get a second ball to keep specifically for wobble practice.
Use at your own risk.
Use with care.
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