Thursday, November 1, 2007

Stability Balls

Stability balls have been a hit since they rolled their way into the health scene a few years ago. The benefits for using the ball regularly are undeniable to your health. You can complete hundreds of different exercises with it; while it increases your core (flexibility, balance, and overall weight loss). Working with the ball makes every exercise full body related.

Working with a stability ball is a great way to double up on your core workout while completing other favorite workouts. Most of the exercises completed on the ball require some balance while combining other (mostly free weight) motion. This balance comes from your middle muscles (core) and by focusing on staying still on the ball your core muscles will benefit.

For those starting with a ball, the idea of balancing on a large ball with weights in both hands can be daunting. For beginners, start off with simple balancing exercises, laying on the ball and trying to lift your legs and arms off the ground while focusing on tightening your midsection on the ball.

Because of the stability and balance work, it's said that stability balls are more beneficial than mat work. And, they can be used in other aspects of your day after workout. Replace your desk chair at home or the office with a resistance ball and strengthen your core (and posture!) while completing other tasks. Watch TV on it, or use it to stretch by rolling your spine along it.

If you're looking at using or buying a ball, make sure you buy one for your correct size. Generally speaking you want to be able to sit on the ball and have your knees at a 90-degree angle. Check the size of your ball against your height as well, this will help choose a correct size-

Ball size/Height
- 45 cm diameter: Under 4'8''
- 55 cm diameter: 4'8'' to 5'4''
- 65 cm diameter: 5'4'' to 5'10''
- 75 cm diameter: 5'10'' to 6'4''

There are hundreds of articles, videos and exercises only dedicated to the stability ball. I'll look for some favorites and post them in an upcoming core/stability ball workout post in the next few days.




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