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Boost your core strength, balance and spine health in the comfort of your living room.

If you've ever set foot in a gym, yoga studio or birthing centre, chances are you'll have spotted an exercise ball on your travels. Originally intended as a gymnastics aid, exercise balls have been on the fitness scene since the sixties, so they're nothing new. But have you ever used one to support your training, and do you know the real benefits of these clever inflatable spheres?

Also known as stability or Swiss balls, it's a little known fact that the humble exercise ball is a powerhouse for home fitness, and can support everything from balance to core strength and even spine health. Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about exercise balls including the ideal size, how to make the most of them in your training and the best ones to buy.

Typically made from PVC, an exercise ball looks like an oversized football and comes in a range of sizes to suit your height and specific needs.

'An exercise ball is mostly used for physical therapy, athletic training and exercise,' says Tim Kayode, performance physical therapist and Founder of Myoset.

They can be used to support your bodyweight workouts, improve posture and can even help with labour pains.

Exercise balls come with a number of benefits. 'It can be used for a plethora of things such as exercises, rehab drills and stretches,' explains Tim. But the benefits don't just extend to fitness.

Exercise balls vary in size, weight and density, so do your research before you start shopping to ensure you choose the right type. They typically come in a range of sizes including 45cm, 55cm, 65cm and 75cm in diameter.

'Firstly make sure the ball is the correct size,' says Tim. 'I would recommend relating it to your height.' The following guidelines should help you choose the right size ball:

How you use it depends on the type of activity you choose but, if you are new to exercise balls, there are a few points worth considering. 'The more firm the ball the more challenging the exercises will be, so for a beginner it's advisable to slightly deflate the ball,' says Tim.

Alignment is also important. 'Always make sure when you are sitting on the ball to start out with, that your feet are flat on the floor with your knees bent at a 90 degree angle,' explains Tim. 'Also, when using your Swiss ball make sure it's being done in an open area to avoid hitting or breaking anything.'

From peanut-shaped to half balance and classic Swiss balls, we're rounded up our pick of the best exercise balls, available to shop now.

Our fave super-fit TV presenter Davina McCall swears by using an exercise ball to work her core, and she's even launched her own range! We have serious ab-envy. This classic ball is anti-burst so it will go the distance, plus it's signed by Davina. And best of all, we love the acid bright colours that will surely encourage you to get your sweat on.

Extras: 65cm, purchase includes a pump.

This classic exercise ball is available in a range of sizes (and funky colours) to suit your height and taste. Plus it comes with a pump and a tape measure to help you inflate it to the right capacity. And best of all this one has anti-slip lines to keep you stable during your workouts. It doubles up as a makeshift office chair too, so you can work on your core stability throughout the day.

Extras: Choose from sizes 55 - 85cm, also available in black, grey, pink or green.

Another great cost-effective option for home fitness, this 65cm classic exercise ball is made from 100% Polyvinyl Chloride which is slightly thicker and more durable than some materials. It also comes with non-slip lines to keep you stable and we love the muted blue or pink shades.

Extras: Also available in 55cm and 75cm. You will need to buy a pump separately.

This no-nonsense PVC exercise ball from adidas comes with a dual-texture surface, so half of it is extra grippy to keep you stable during certain moves, while the other half is smooth textured for balancing. Plus it's made using anti-burst technology so there will be no nasty surprises if your cat attacks it.

Extras: 55 cm, purchase includes a hand pump.

Peanut balls differ from classic exercise balls because they're easier to slot between your legs, so they're great for physical therapy and certain core stability moves, plus birthing women swear by them for help during labour.

Extras: Available in size 95cm x 45cm, includes a pump.

If space is tight and you're hoping to get more from your home gym equipment, this half balance ball holds the secret to a full body workout. It comes with anti-slide floor pads and a textured standing surface for stability and core work, while bonus resistance bands will train your whole body including arms, shoulders, abs, and back.

Extras: Size 60 x 60 x 11cm, includes a pump and a free workout guide.

New to using an exercise ball or looking for a pregnancy aid? This simple but effective 65cm purple option is great for beginners hoping to improve balance and co-ordination, and at £10 it's also a total steal.

Extras: Also available in 55cm in silver and, 75cm in blue, and purchase includes a pump.

If you just don't have the floor space for a giant exercise ball or you're hoping to focus on key areas, this 22cm PVC ball might be small but it still packs quite a punch. Use it between your legs to aid alignment or as part of a Pilates class to boost flexibility and improve balance. Plus, it's super cheap.

Extras: Also available in blue, purple, grey or turquoise.

Yes this exercise ball is wildly expensive, but isn't it beautiful? It's designed to support your home workouts and as a seat to help you improve your posture. But really, if you have the floor space, then it's rather lovely just to look at too.

Extras: Available in 55 cm or 65 cm. We're fans of the desert edition too.