If
there is one equipment you should not miss in your training, it
is the stability ball. The market comes up with new training
tools every now and then. Yet you are not sure if they do work
and if they are safe. So for one that is guaranteed to work, use
the stability ball.
What Is a Stability Ball?
This is a large and inflatable ball used as an exercise
equipment. Despite being air-filled, it is generally heavy-duty
and capable to hold 600 to 700 pounds of weight. It is
comfortable and gives good support. It perfectly suits the
trainee as it easily goes with the structure of the body.
This exercise tool is also sometimes called as the physioball or
the Swiss Ball.
The good thing about using the stability ball is it reduces the
perception of ‘working’ in training, especially for beginners.
It gives some element of ‘play’ as you get rough with the
training. It adds some fun and excitement as you advance in the
movements and techniques.
Another good point with the ball is that it can be used by
anybody. No fitness level is required. It is very portable and
light weight, easy to bring along even when traveling. It is
also inexpensive compared to other exercise equipment and it
could last for a very long time.
How Stability Balls Came About?
The use of the stability balls for training can be traced in
rehabilitation. As early as the 1900’s, physical therapists have
been using balls in addressing the neurological disorders of
their patients.
Then, in the early 1960’s, Aquilino Cosani, an Italian toy
maker, made the ball and sold it, known then as the ‘Gymnastik.’
Two decades after, Cosani came up with a company called Gymnic
and became the major supplier of the stability ball to most
rehabilitation programs and centers.
The ball then shifted from the rehabilitation to the athletic
area, in the 90’s. It was used to condition the body of
professional athletes. From then on, the ball became very
prominent in the fitness community.
At present medical specialists and fitness professionals very
much recommend the use of the stability ball by the public. It
serves more than solving physical problems. It is good in
preventing you from having one.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Stability Ball?
The stability ball definitely is best to improve the strength of
the abs and the lower-backs. It improves as well the functional
strength, balance and flexibility of the body.
1. Proper Alignment
Using the ball during training will test the body to make use of
the different parts to maintain the proper balance. The dynamic
movements during exercise will improve the natural motor
reflexes of the body as different muscles are utilized in
movement, especially the ones that are not usually used. The
challenge posed by the ball is to maintain balance. As one aims
to get the proper balance, the alignment of the body parts is
also improved.
2. Great Abs
For people working out to achieve great abs, this ball can
definitely target the abdominal areas. The abs and the back
muscles are simultaneously moved as you work in your balance.
Just imagine the good feeling of having a flat stomach area and
you will definitely love this ball.
3. Muscle Strength and Endurance
The stability ball can help in alleviating any back pain and
preventing one in the future. As all the major muscle groups are
exercised, the muscle tone, strength and endurance are also
improved. Thus it gives the body flexibility, stability and
resistance.
4. Core Stability
This concerns the major muscles that helps stabilize and support
all of the body movements. This is made up of back and the deep
abdominal muscles. With the ball, no matter how ‘deep’ or ‘into
the core’ these muscles are, they are still exercised. This is
something only the stability ball can guarantee.
5. Stretching
The ball is a good companion during stretching exercises. With
this, you can easily move into and move out of different
stretching positions.
6. Losing Weight
Of course, with all the good benefits of using the ball, you
will not miss out on the aspect of losing weight. With regular
exercises and trainings done with the stability ball, a person
can lose some unwanted pounds as the body is firmed.
Health is definitely your most important asset. So do your
regular exercises and maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, have
a happy and fun training with the stability ball.
Other
Valuable Weight Loss, Health, and Dieting Websites:
WebMD.com
MayoClinic.com
About.com
CNN Health
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