By now, you’ve probably seen an exercise ball. They look like giant, oversized, kick-balls that people roll and stretch on at the gym. If you’re like me, you’re probably hesitant about using one of these. You may be worried about looking silly or can’t actually figure out how fitness balls work. Well, after taking a look at the benefits of using an exercise ball, I’ll bet that next time you’re at the gym you’ll want try one out. You’ll find the benefits well worth it.
What most people consider to be the biggest benefit of using an exercise ball is its ability to strengthen your core muscles.
These are the muscles in your abs and back; the muscles you work so hard to tone up with crunches. When you do exercises on a ball, your abdominal and back muscles are constantly working to make adjustments and keep you balanced. Unlike traditional exercises, the ball works the muscles on the front and back of your body at the same time, promoting a more balanced and healthy physique. Even if you’re targeting a different area, your core muscles are still getting exercise. Plus, there are tons of exercises you can do on a ball that focus on strengthening and toning these muscles even more.
If you slump at a desk all day and find that your back, neck, and shoulders are sore at night, you can definitely benefit from an exercise ball.
By toning your core muscles, exercise balls can do wonders for your posture. When your core is toned, the muscles keep working after you’re done working out, helping you sit up straight. You can get this benefit even without working out by replacing your desk chair with an exercise ball. This way you maintain proper posture in order to stay on the ball and thus work your core at the same time! If you don’t think your workplace will allow you to sit on an exercise ball at your desk, they make exercise ball chairs that provide the same benefit with a more professional look.
Have you had a previous injury to your back, knee or hip? Do you worry about exercising because it might aggravate your condition? An exercise ball can help.
The ball can be used to support your body while you stretch or build muscles. Those with back injuries may even be able to find some relief from pain by lying on the ball. These balls are so good for helping relieve strain and preventing future injury, that they’re often used by physical therapists for rehabilitating back injuries.
If you find it hard to bend, move, and even touch your toes, an exercise ball can help you improve your flexibility.
It can not just help you stretch yourself farther, but it also provides support so you can stretch certain muscles more safely. An exercise ball’s ability to help you stretch out is one of the biggest reasons physical therapists swear by them.
So what are you waiting for? With all these benefits you can’t afford to pass up the opportunity to try one of these out at the gym. Exercise balls are also available for home use.
If you want more information, here are a few exercise ball videos.
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