The Stability Ball

The stability ball is a vinyl, air-filled ball that can revolutionize your workout.  These balls were first used, many years ago, in physical therapy sessions, helping patients recover from everything from back pain to neurological problems. The unstable surface of the ball forces you to recruit numerous muscles throughout your body to keep yourself balanced.  Research shows that the ball can make just about any exercise more effective.  In one study, for example, people who did crunches while seated on a ball recruited more muscle fibers in their abdomen than those who did crunches on the floor.  Here's how it works: Let's say you lie on the ball as if it were a bench and perform a traditional chest press.  You'll strengthen your chest muscles as you press the dumbbells away from you.  You'll also firm your thigh and butt muscles as they keep your hips in position.  Finally, you'll tone your abdomen as it works to keep you balanced on the ball.  How's that for a total body workout?

There are now more fitness ball manufacturers than any reasonable human being can keep track of.  Look for a burst-resistant stability ball, and buy the right sized ball for your height.

         BALL DIAMETER                       YOUR  HEIGHT

• 53 cm (21 inches)                 4 ft 11 inches to  5ft 4 inches
• 65 cm (25 inches)                 5 ft 5 inches to 5 ft 11 inches
• 75 cm (29 inches)                 6 ft +