Gym balls offer such a lot for their size. They are super for all over toning and very effective for reaching and using the deeper abdominal muscles, that are crucial to posture and fitness.
Even back in the 1960’s Swiss therapist were using balls to treat children with cerebral palsy.
It is a cheap, effective way to exercise many of the muscles in the body.
Whether you are new to exercise or an athlete, the gym ball has something to offer you. Beginners can deflate the ball initially and advanced exercisers can inflate it a little more so the ball is more responsive.
It is the natural instability and rounded platform of the ball that forces your muscles to work in order for you to retain your balance and prevent you from falling off.
Even sitting on the ball (perhaps in front of the TV) effectively contracts muscles throughout the body to ensure you do not fall off.
Great for muscle toning and strength, as when you work on one set of muscles, another set is helping to maintain balance – therefore you become more toned more quickly.
It works your core muscles including abdominal, mid-back and lower back. If these muscles are weak it can lead to poor posture and often low back pain.
Many physiotherapists recommend using a gym ball to patients with lower back pain and injury, as by strengthening these muscles it will relieve and also prevent lower back pain.
Most gym balls are made of PVC, plastic or solid foam rubber, and they come in a variety of sizes, weights and varieties.