Since starting this blog in 2016, we’ve reviewed more than 100 paddleboard accessory products, and now it’s time for the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board.
A unique and sustainably produced board, it’s ideal for beginners and highly customizable with personalized engravings.
However, it comes at a higher price point.
Let’s dive into our Bredder Elani Fish review.
One thing up front: the Bredder Elani Fish is not on sale any more. This page now does two jobs. Directly below we name the three products we would buy in its place today, each with the reason it fits, and further down our original test stays online in full, because that is where our judgement came from.
Better alternatives to the Bredder Elani Fish
The Elani Fish was a wooden board with a sustainability story and a high price, so we looked for wooden boards first.
| Model | Key spec | Best for | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bredder Elani Fishour original test | See the test below | The product this page was written about | No longer sold |
| INFIDEZ 360 Balance Board | 17 x 13 x 3 in | Core work and rehab as much as paddling | Amazon |
| Gentle Monster 35 in Balance Board | 35 x 11.8 in, 6 in high | A household with children who will use it too | Amazon |
| StrongTek Rocker Board | 17.5 x 13.5 x 3 in | Off season balance work and standing desks | Amazon |
1. INFIDEZ 360 Balance Board
Why it is here: Wooden and rotating, the nearest match to the Elani Fish.
The reason to train balance indoors is that the muscles involved are small, tire fast and are never trained by anything else.
- Size17 x 13 x 3 in
- BaseCross shaped, 360 degree
- Capacity250 lb
- SurfaceNon slip coating
Best for: Core work and rehab as much as paddling.
A cross shaped 360 degree board sized to fit under a desk, with a 20 degree tilt angle that is enough to work without being alarming.Strengths
- Full rotation
- Portable at 17 in
- Non slip top
Weaknesses
- 250 lb limit
The 250 lb rating is the lowest here, which rules it out for some users.
2. Gentle Monster 35 in Balance Board
Why it is here: Long, wooden and stable enough for two feet.
If the balance board has to earn its place in a living room, this is the one that will.
Gentle Monster 35 in Balance Board
- Size35 x 11.8 in, 6 in high
- MaterialNatural wood
- UseChildren and adults
- StyleOpen ended Montessori board
Best for: A household with children who will use it too.
A large curved wooden board that works as a rocker for adults and as everything else for children.Strengths
- Large enough for adults
- Natural wood finish
- Doubles as play equipment
Weaknesses
- Least specific to balance training
As a training tool it is the gentlest here. For real balance work, the smaller wobble boards do more.
3. StrongTek Rocker Board
Balance is the part of paddling that can be trained indoors, and winter is when the gap opens up.
- Size17.5 x 13.5 x 3 in
- TypeRocker board, one axis
- MaterialLauan hardwood plywood
- SurfaceTextured grip
Best for: Off season balance work and standing desks.
A plain rocker board: it tips one way and back, which is the movement that actually transfers to standing on a board.Strengths
- Simple one axis motion
- Solid hardwood
- Small enough to leave out
Weaknesses
- Too easy once you are used to it
Anyone already comfortable on a board will outgrow a single axis rocker within a few weeks.
Our original test of the Bredder Elani Fish
Data & Facts
| Brand | Bredder |
|---|---|
| Size | 90 cm x 40 cm |
| Weight | 3 kg |
| Type of Board | Fishtail Balance Board |
| Skill Level | All levels (ideal for beginners) |
| Intended Use | Balance training |
| Max Weight Capacity | 120 kg |
| Material | 10-layers of wood |
| Roller Included | Yes |
| Roller Size | Length: 50 cm Diameter: 12 cm |
| Design | Unique wood grain design, customizable with personal engraving |
| Accessories | Wooden roller |
Pro & Con
Pros
- Unique, sustainable design with a personalized engraving option
- Handcrafted from certified wood and produced in an eco-friendly manner
- Large size (90 x 40 cm) and stable construction, suitable for beginners
- Maximum weight capacity of 120 kg, ideal for both men and women
- Can be used for a variety of exercises to improve balance, coordination, and strength
- Includes a wooden roller for balance training
Cons
- Higher price compared to some other balance boards
- Smooth surface may require non-slip shoes for beginners to feel secure
- Wooden roller may be heavier than cork or plastic alternatives
Features
- Unique Fishtail Design: The Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board features a distinctive fishtail design, making it stand out from other balance boards and offering versatility in training exercises.
- High-Quality Construction: Composed of ten laminated layers of wood, the board is extremely stable and durable, with a maximum load capacity of 120 kg, suitable for both men and women.
- Large Dimensions: Measuring 90 cm x 40 cm, the Bredder Elani Fish provides ample space for training, making it ideal for beginners.
- Wooden Roller Included: The set comes with a 50 cm long and 12 cm diameter roller made of genuine German spruce wood, providing a robust and long-lasting accessory for balance training.
- Smooth Grip: The high-quality finish ensures a smooth and comfortable surface while offering protection from dirt and damage. Training is best done barefoot or with non-slip shoes.
- Personalized Design: The unique wood grain of each board is accentuated by colored highlights, and you can even customize your board with a personal engraving.
- Eco-friendly Production: Bredder places great importance on sustainability, using certified wood, locally sourced materials, and eco-friendly production processes.
- Handmade Quality: Each Elani Fish Balance Board is carefully crafted by hand in a small workshop in Tübingen, ensuring exceptional quality and longevity.
- Various Exercises: The Bredder Elani Fish allows for a range of balance and strength exercises to improve coordination, foot, and core muscles.
- Ideal for Beginners: With its large size and stable construction, the Bredder Elani Fish is well-suited for those new to balance training, as long as non-slip shoes are worn for added safety.
- Complete Set: No additional equipment is required, as the necessary roller is included in the set. However, a protective mat can be used to safeguard the floor and reduce noise during training.
How to Use the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board
- Position the Board: Lay the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board on a flat and stable surface with plenty of space around it to ensure a safe and comfortable training session.
- Place the Roller: Position the wooden roller included in the set perpendicular to the length of the board. This will allow you to practice various balancing exercises with ease.
- Step onto the Board: Start with one foot, placing it near the center of the board, then slowly add your other foot, maintaining balance and keeping your knees slightly bent for stability.
- Begin Balancing Exercises: Gently shift your weight from one foot to the other, rolling the board back and forth over the roller. Gradually increase the difficulty by incorporating squats, lunges, and single-leg balance exercises.
- Adjust Your Grip: For better traction, train barefoot or use non-slip shoes. Avoid socks that might cause you to slip and lose balance on the board.
Intended Use
The Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board is a versatile piece of equipment that can benefit individuals with various fitness goals. Its primary purpose is to help users develop and maintain balance, coordination, and core strength.
The board is an excellent tool for athletes looking to improve their performance in different sports such as surfing, skateboarding, snowboarding, and other activities that require a strong balance and core stability.
In addition to enhancing athletic performance, the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board is also suitable for those seeking low-impact workouts to improve overall fitness and well-being. Its large 90 x 40 cm size and durable build make it an excellent option for beginners who want to start incorporating balance training into their exercise routines.
Moreover, the board can be used as a therapeutic tool for individuals recovering from injury or surgery, or for those looking to improve posture and body alignment. The exercises performed on the board can aid in rehabilitating and strengthening muscles around joints, providing extra support and stability for improved mobility and function.
Overall, the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board is a fantastic addition to any fitness enthusiast's toolkit, regardless of skill level or experience.
Material & Quality
The Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board is made from certified wood, ensuring sustainability and durability. Its construction consists of ten laminated wood layers, providing a strong and sturdy structure capable of carrying up to 120 kg.
This impressive weight capacity makes the board suitable for both men and women. The included Fichtenholz roller is also comprised of reliable material, with its multiple cross-laminated wood layers offering robustness and long-lasting performance when compared to cork or plastic alternatives.
In terms of quality, the Bredder Elani Fish showcases handcrafted workmanship from a small workshop in Tübingen. The attention to detail is evident in its design, with a sleek and smooth surface achieved through a special lacquer technique.
The eco-conscious production process utilized by the manufacturer further adds value to the product, with the use of rapidly renewable resources, locally sourced wood, eco-powered manufacturing, and recycled packaging materials. As a result, the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board not only offers effective balance training but also stands as a testament to environmental responsibility.
FAQ
What is unique about the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board?
The Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board features a distinctive fishtail design, customizable personal engraving, and eco-friendly production, making it stand out from other balance boards.
What are the dimensions and weight capacity of the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board?
The board measures 90 cm x 40 cm, can carry up to 120 kg, and is suitable for both men and women.
What is included in the Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board set?
The set comes with a 50 cm long and 12 cm diameter wooden roller made of genuine German spruce wood for balance training.
Conclusion
The Bredder Elani Fish Balance Board excels as an outstanding addition to any fitness arsenal, with its sustainable design, customizable engravings, and ideal suitability for beginners.
Alongside the board's high-quality construction and eco-friendly practices, its versatility in exercises and compatibility with all skill levels make it a top contender in balance training.
Although the higher price mark and smooth surface may be concerns for some, the Bredder Elani Fish's performance and durability ultimately justify the investment, promising enhanced balance, coordination, and core strength for an array of fitness goals.
