Benefits of Using a Stability Ball in Your Training. Useful Points to Take Into Consideration
July 22nd, 2009 by Home fitness specialist
What Is a Stability Ball?
This is a big and inflatable ball used as an training 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 wholly suits the trainee as it easily goes with the structure of the body.
This training 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, in particular for beginners. It gives some aspect of ‘play’ as you get rough with the training. It adds some fun and enthusiasm as you advance in the movements and techniques.
A different good point with the ball is that it can be used by anyone. No fitness level is required. It is very moveable and light weight, easy to bring along even when traveling. It is also low-cost 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 therapy. As early as the 1900’s, physical therapists have been using balls in addressing the neurological disorders of their patients.
After that, 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 main supplier of the stability ball to most rehabilitation programs and centers.
The ball then shifted from the therapy to the athletic area, in the 90’s. It was used to condition the body of trained athletes. From then on, the ball became very well-known in the fitness community.
At present medical specialists and fitness professionals very much advise 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 also 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 various parts to maintain the proper balance. The dynamic movements during exercise will improve the natural motor reflexes of the body as various 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 right balance, the alignment of the body parts is also improved.
2. Great Abs
For persons 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 certainly love this ball.
3. Muscle Strength and Endurance
The stability ball can aid 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 promise.
5. Stretching
The ball is a good companion during stretching workout. With this, you can easily move into and move out of various 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, an individual can lose some unwanted pounds as the body is firmed.
Health is definitely your principal asset. So do your regular exercises and maintain a healthy diet. Besides, have a happy and fun training with the stability ball.
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