The manufacturer has recalled 3 million fitness balls sold under the Bally Total Fitness, Everlast, Valeo and Body Fit brands because the balls can burst unexpectedly and cause the user to fall. EB Brands has received 47 reports of fitness balls unexpectedly bursting, including reports of a fracture, and multiple bruises. The hazard occurs when the balls are overinflated, according to the recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

This recall involves rubber fitness balls sold in 55-, 65- and 75-cm diameter sizes with a pump and inflation instructions. The balls came in various colors and carried the Bally Total Fitness, Everlast or Valeo logo. Advertised as "burst-resistant," they were sold at department stores and fitness retailers nationwide from May 2000 to February 2009 for between $15 and $30.

EB Brands is asking consumers to call the company or visit its Web site to get updated instructions on how to safely inflate the ball. The help line (800) 624-5671) is available between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

On its Web site, EB Brands gives these tips:

• Do not inflate your exercise ball when the room temperature where you will use the ball is greater than 90° F/32° C OR less than 65° F/18° C.
• Do not use an air compressor to inflate the ball. Air compressors blow cold air that could expand after returning to room temperature. Only inflate the ball with the pump that is included with the product.
• Do not inflate the ball to greater than the size specification for your ball's maximum inflation size. After the ball is inflated, measure it periodically to verify it has remained at the correct dimension.
• Do not use the ball if it is over inflated or expanded to a size greater than the correct size.