7 Benefits of Using the Exercise Ball

Posted by Roland Steyn on August 18th, 2017

The exercise ball (also known as the Swiss Ball) was invented in 1963 in Italy by Aquiline Cosine. While it may seem, non-intimidating compared to hardcore gym equipment, the exercise ball has tons of benefits to offer and can be used to assist in a wide array of exercises. Here are some of the benefits you get when you use the exercise ball: 

Integrates Strength, Balance and Flexibility 

An exercise ball addresses the basic elements of fitness, which are strength, balance and flexibility. Using an exercise ball forces, you to exert more effort in making sure your body is balanced during the exercise; in doing so, you exert additional strength in keeping your body steady. Stretching using the exercise ball also minimizes risks of injury. 

Works Out the Core Muscles 

Using the exercise ball during core muscle workouts such as pushups, planking and sit ups engages your core much more effectively than if you were performing these exercises on a flat surface. More than allowing you to developing beach-perfect abs, working out your core muscles makes simple tasks easy. If core muscles are not exercised, walking, pulling and other easy tasks become more difficult. 

Improves Posture 

More people—even pregnant women—are trading their office chair for the exercise ball to improve their posture. While it is not recommended for continuous use and is certainly not a panacea for those who have no time to work out, it’s certainly worthwhile to sit on an exercise ball regularly

Relieves Back Pain

As it improves your posture, it can also relieve back and upper body pain in the neck and shoulders, which is a common complaint for those who sit in a desk all day at work. 

Burns More Calories 

People are often surprised at how much extra calories they burn or how difficult simple exercise tasks become when they add the exercise ball into the mix. This is because the ball is unstable. 

Perfect for Rehabilitation 

Originally, the exercise ball was used to rehabilitate people recovering from a stroke. It has also been developed for use of rehabilitating those with back and posture problems. 

Inexpensive 

Compared to the machines and weight-lifting equipment, the exercise ball is easy on the wallet. It is durable for long-term use and needs little maintenance. Plus, if it is punctured, it does not explode like a balloon (which makes it safe around children). 

About the Author: 

This article is written by Roland Steyn, the Director of MiFitness. MiFitness is one of South Africa's most trusted online suppliers of home-use and commercial gym equipment. They supply a wide range of high-quality exercise equipment for home and corporate use.

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Roland Steyn

About the Author

Roland Steyn
Joined: December 17th, 2016
Articles Posted: 30

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