On the Ball: Hand Weight Series (Part 2)
This is the second part in my series of upper body exercises performed with hand weights on the Ball. (Here is Part 1 of the series.) Hug a Tree Begin…
On the Ball: Hand Weight Series (Part 1)
The Ball is a unique exercise tool in that it is not a stable surface. To perform any strengthening or stretching exercise, you must not only use the muscles required…
Obliques on the Ball
The obliques are an often neglected group of abdominal muscles located at the sides of your waist. There are two separate pairs of muscles, the internal and external obliques, which…
How Does Stability Ball Training Compare with Pilates?
Many of the exercises in Balance on the Ball have been inspired by specific mat or apparatus exercises developed by Joseph Pilates. The Ball exercises, however, are not necessarily more…
Seven Benefits of Exercising on the Ball
Increases flexibility, perhaps to a greater degree than performing similar stretches on a stable surface. The Ball allows you to find subtle nuances in every stretch, because by rolling it…
Choosing the Right Size Ball
When sitting on the Ball, your knees should be at a 90º angle or just slightly lower than the level of your hips. Following are some general guidelines based on…
Improve Your Balance on the Ball
There is no better way to improve your balance than by balancing on an unstable surface. With a stability ball—arguably one of the most versatile props—your core muscles are forced…
Back on the Ball
Back pain affects an estimated 80% of the population at some point in their lives. I know I’ve had my share of aches and pains: pushing my body to its…
Core Strength on the Ball
Core strength is vital to everything we do, from sitting at the computer to carrying a load of heavy groceries, from playing competitive sports to playing with our kids. It…
Abs on the Ball
Pilates has long been revered for its slimming and toning effects, particularly on the body’s core muscles. Here, we add a stability ball to some classic Pilates moves for an…