Hedstrom -- a Division of Ball, Bounce and Sport Inc. -- has acquired exclusive, worldwide distribution of BOSU products from Fitness Quest, Inc. Hedstrom is most recognized as the manufacturer of the original BOSU Balance Trainer, invented by David Weck in 1999.



"We have formed a new division called Hedstrom Fitness that will house the BOSU product line. And we have retained key employees and contractors from Fitness Quest, Inc. to ensure uninterrupted service," said Jim Braeunig, President and CEO of Hedstrom. "Our goals are to develop product line extensions, acquire other key fitness products, and become a more viable player in this market segment."



Officially launched in 2000, the BOSU Balance Trainer helped to introduce the concept of balance training to elite athletes and coaches, fitness professionals, medical and rehabilitation specialists, and schools and universities. The name "BOSU" is an acronym for "Both Sides Up," meaning the product can be used with either the dome or the platform side up. The BOSU brand also includes a unique, weighted stability ball called the BOSU Ballast Ball.



Hedstrom currently manufactures commercial and retail versions of the BOSU Balance Trainer and BOSU Ballast Ball.


 

Hedstrom, a Ball, Bounce and Sport Inc. company, is one of the nation's premier manufacturers and marketers of play and sports balls. Current product lines have been in existence for more than 90 years. One of the most recognized product lines is a variety of major character licensed play balls, distributed through most mass, retail, food, drug, and specialty stores throughout the U.S. and Canada under the Hedstrom Entertainment division. The Hedstrom Plastics division, a major plastics and vinyl rotational molder, has facilities in Ashland and Dunkirk, Ohio. Hedstrom collectively employs more than 160 people in the U.S. and Canada, and Hedstrom's distribution network operates in five strategic locations in both countries. Hedstrom Asia, a manufacturing joint venture in China, employs another 700 people and distributes play balls and other vinyl products to other parts of the world.



For more information, contact Jim Braeunig at jbraeunig@hedstrom.com or 1-800-765-9665. BOSU and Ballast are registered trademarks of BOSU Fitness, LLC.