Using Your Exercise Ball

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The exercise or stability ball is a popular way to workout both at home or by taking a class. An exercise ball delivers a powerful workout, surprising even strong men with the effectiveness of push-ups and sit-ups done this way.

A large stability ball makes for a great seat by your computer. Improve your posture and balance with ease, getting quick results while adapting to the routine in no time! With so many people today suffering from computer related injuries, using a ball as your seat might be a good solution to avoiding hand, arm, neck and back issues. 

In 1963, Italian plastic manufacturer Aquilino Casani developed the first exercise balls, known as Swiss Balls. Pezzi balls, originally used to treat newborns, were later adapted for adults to address medical and orthopedic conditions.

Physical therapists began using the balls and their popularity increased. 

There are many different ways to use an exercise ball. They are great for strengthening your core. As you perform the exercise you must also balance the ball and this makes you use more muscle groups. Your core muscles provide stability and support for maintaining good posture.. 

When you first start using your exercise ball no doubt you will find it harder than you thought! There are a few safety precautions that you want to take into consideration as well. 

Your first step is to choose the right size ball for you. The general rule of thumb is that when sitting on the ball your thighs should be parallel to the floor.  You can achieve this by inflating it to the correct size as well. When purchasing your exercise power most will have height and weight recommendations on the packaging. 

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Prepare Your Space and Gear for a Safe and Effective Exercise Ball Workout

Next you need to choose a good workout area. Even though the exercise power is relatively small it will move and so you need a large enough area to allow for this.

Think about the clothing that you will wear as well.

As your body will move around more you want to wear exercise clothing that moves with you. There is nothing worse than having scrunched up clothing and feeling as though your clothes have pinned you down!

Wear shoes during exercise to prevent slippery feet caused by sweat, ensuring better grip and reducing the risk of slips. 

You are ready now to go have fun with your new exercise ball. Most balls come with a workout sheet. If not you can easily find exercise ball exercises by doing a quick search online. Have fun while getting fit with energizing workouts!