Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Step Up Your Core Stregnth!



The "Stability Ball" is a staple piece of equipment that I use with ALL of my clients during our training sessions - no matter age, body type or athletic ability.  Doing exercises on the stability ball,  (also called the fitness ball or swiss ball) can intensify almost any exercise!  For example,  I use the ball instead of a workout bench for exercises like "Chest Flies" or  "Chest Presses" - by doing this my clients aren't only getting the benefit of the exercise but also in their core by having to balance and hold their bodies up.  A stability ball can be purchased at Target, Walmart etc...for a minimal amount of money but the benefits to your health and fitness goals are priceless!  These balls come in all different sizes and some can support up to 700 pounds.  For beginners, I would recommend a larger ball (75cm) which will be easier to balance yourself on.

There are a zillion different ways to use the ball but these are a few of my favorites....


Standard Crunch


  • Make sure to place the ball on the small of your back
  • Support your neck with your hands without pulling your neck
  • Let your abs do all the work!


Stability Ball Push-Up

  • Make sure to place the ball on your shins  with your legs slightly apart
  • Bend your arms at a 90 degree angle 
  • Don't forget to keep your stomach tight!

Stability Ball Lunge (with or without weights)


  • Make sure to start with your feet shoulder width apart and place the top of your foot on the ball
  • Drop your knee straight down towards the floor
  • Keep your back straight and stomach tight!



**All Pictures were found on Google**





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