It's all about the stability ball - part 1

One of the most versatile pieces of fitness training equipment on the market is the stability ball, also known as the balance ball. The stability ball can be found in most sport supply stores and is readily available on the internet for those who shop inline. The average price of the ball is $30 to $35. In fact most homes with active families already have one or two balls lying around.

 

The stability ball is so versatile you can perform stretching, upper and lower body strengthening, balance and coordination activities, and core training workouts with one ball, some floor space, and a bit of imagination. Essentially the ball is slightly heavier and sturdier giant size beach ball.

 

It is important when purchasing this valuable training tool to buy the right size. The diameter of the ball is directly correlated to the height of the individual using it. Here are the recommended guidelines – Under 4’6” tall = 30cm; 4’6” to 5’ = 45cm; 5’1” to 5’7” = 55cm; 5’8” to 6’1” = 65cm; 6’2” to 6’7’ = 75cm. The ball will come packaged with a hand-held pump.

 

I highly recommend visiting a sport trainer for one to two sessions so that they can provide an array of exercises for you to perform. There are also may books and DVD’s on stability ball training. Unfortunately as with any new training tool once the novelty has worn off, people to end to look toward the next training aid. Though, with imagination and/or a regular visit to a sport trainer your stability ball workouts can become very enjoyable, challenging, and most importantly cheap and efficient.

 

There are a wide range of users of the stability ball from young toddlers learning about balance and coordination, to weekend warriors, and even serious elite athletes. This training tool has stood the test of time and should be, if not already, added to your training routine

Craig Dalrymple

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