Exercise Ball Training

Exercise Balls or Stability Balls are large elastic rubber balls with a diameter of around 14 to 34 inches. Exercises with Stability Balls increase muscle strength, flexibility, and improve balance. Pilates classes often incorporate the Exercise Ball to tone muscle and improve flexibility. Contact us today to schedule your free health club tour or find out what other gym members think about Exercise Ball workouts below.

More Details On Exercise Ball Training

History: An Exercise Ball is also known as a Stability ball, Fitness ball, Swiss ball, or Pilates Ball. Exercise balls are not to be confused with your grandfather’s medicine balls, exercise balls are large, lighter, and filled with air. A primary benefit of exercising with a Fitness Ball as opposed to exercising directly on the floor or workout bench is that the body responds to the instability of the ball, remaining balanced will engage many more muscles. Despite the Swiss Ball nickname, Exercise Balls originated in the 1960’s by an Italian toy manufacturer. It was American physical therapists that observed the balls in use in Switzerland that coined the phrase Swiss Balls. Today, Exercise Balls have become a staple of health clubs everywhere. A spin-off of the Exercise Ball is the BOSU® (Both Sides Utilized), which uses inflated hemispheres for balance training.

Duration of Class: 60 minutes

Caloric Burn: Calories burned with Exercise Balls depend on the routine that the ball is being used for.

Levels Offered: Exercise Ball classes are available for all levels of fitness.

Attire: In workouts with Exercise Balls, long leggings, longer shorts, cotton shirts, and generally tight fitting attire is preferred. Try to avoid bare skin contacting the ball’s surface as skin may stick to surface, or when sweating can become slippery. Loose fitting clothing is discouraged.

Desired Results: The stability ball can be used for abdominal crunches and can also take the place of workout benches when doing bicep curls. Stability balls force an individual to use his/her core muscle groups. Some experts like to remind Stability Ball enthusiasts that the Exercise Ball is just a tool. It’s not a cure-all and shouldn’t replace all your core aerobic activities.

Gender: Men and Women

Things to Bring: Water bottle, towel, and, of course, your exercise ball.