A stability ball, also known as an exercise ball, Swiss ball or balance ball, is a great addition to most resistance and aerobics training sessions. They are an effective means of developing core strength and balance and are excellent for aiding people with muscle rehabilitation. They also serve as a seat or bench, allowing for your body to fully utilize all its core stabilizer muscles to help balance.
The stability ball literally is one of the most versatile pieces of gym equipment available. It's lightweight and easy to use, making it a perfect choice for exercisers. There are literally hundreds of exercises that you can perform with the stability ball - you are only limited to what you can think of.
Select a ball based on your height requirements - not on your weight. Most exercise balls are anti-burst and can hold up to 600 lbs of pressure. Generally, if you are 5'0" - 5'6" you can go for a 55" diameter exercise ball. If you are above 5'6", you should go for a 65" diameter ball. They are even available in 75" diameter; however, these particular balls are for very tall persons. Regardless of your height, make sure that the ball is properly sized to you and allows you to sit on with your knees and hips at a 90' degree angle with the floor.
Any time you are using the ball during exercising, make sure that your body is in alignment and that a neutral position of the spine is used. Try not to hyper extend your neck or spine when lying on the ball, either prone or supine. Because of the nature of the sphere, there is no balance to the structure. Therefore, it helps to stimulate the natural reflexes of your body forcing your core to be constantly flexed and ready to react. Using various muscles for stabilization is the key to constant and maximal results so use the stability ball as you would a chair in most normal situations.
By incorporating the stability ball into your workout as a bench or chair; you can add a whole new element to your training routine. Constant development of your balance and coordination are essential to maintaining equilibrium, both physically and mentally. You don't even have to be working out to enjoy the benefits that this piece of equipment has to offer.
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Edward likes to write on a mixture of topics and has been doing so for some years. His newest internet site is http://cottonblankets.org which supplies folks with information on cotton blankets .
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