Benefits of Using an Exercise Ball

By now, you’ve probably seen an exercise ball. They’re those things that look like giant playground balls that you see people rolling and stretching on at the gym.

If you’re like me, you’re probably hesitant about using one of these balls. You may be worried about looking silly or can’t actually figure out how they work.

Well, next time you’re at the gym, why don’t you try one out? You’ll probably find the benefits well worth it.

Here are different ways an exercise ball can help you out:

Strengthen Your Core Muscles

What most people consider to be the biggest benefit of using an exercise ball is its ability to strengthen your core muscles. These are the muscles in your abs and back; the muscles you work so hard to tone up with crunches. When you do exercises on a ball, your abdominal and back muscles are constantly working to make adjustments and keep you balanced.

Unlike traditional exercises, the ball works the muscles on the front and back of your body at the same time, promoting a more balanced and healthy physique.

Even if you’re targeting a different area, your core muscles are still getting exercise. Plus, there are tons of exercises you can do on a ball that focus on strengthening and toning these muscles even more.

Helps Your Posture and Upper Body Soreness

If you slump at a desk all day and find that your back, neck, and shoulders are sore at night, you can definitely benefit from an exercise ball. By toning your core muscles, exercise balls can do wonders for your posture.

When your core is toned, the muscles keep working after you’re done working out, helping you sit up straight. You can get this benefit even without working out by replacing your desk chair with an exercise ball. This way you to maintain proper posture to stay on the ball and work your core at the same time!

If you don’t think your workplace will allow you to sit on an exercise ball at your desk, they make exercise ball chairs that provide the same benefit with a more professional look.

Help With Rehabilitation

Have you had a previous injury to your back, knee or hip? Do you worry about exercising because it might aggravate your condition? An exercise ball can help. The ball can be used to support your body while you stretch or build muscles. Those with back injuries may even be able to find some relief from pain by lying on the ball.

These balls are so good for helping relieve strain and preventing future injury, they're often used by physical therapists for back rehabilitating back injuries.

Helps Improve Your Flexibility

If you find it hard to bend, move, and even touch your toes, an exercise ball can help you improve your flexibility. It can help you stretch yourself farther, but it can also provide support so you can stretch certain muscles more safely.

Their ability to help stretch you out is one of the biggest reasons physical therapists swear by these balls.

So what are you waiting for? With all these benefits you can’t afford to not go out and get an exercise ball today.

Check out Gaiam's selection of stability balls: Gaiam Website