Core Strength

Core strength implies reinforcing the torso for good workouts and minimal injuries. An efficient method for attaining core strength is the Exercise ball (also called the Swiss ball or Physio ball). It is the best tool to increase the strength of the abdomen and the back, improve balance and coordination. It comes in sizes of 55, 65 and 75 cm at departmental or sports stores. The one matching a person's height and length of the leg is to be chosen. It provides a means of portable equipment.

Advantages

It is used to overcome lower back pain by strengthening the muscles, which support the spine. With this ball, some amount of instability is generated in the exercise, which is absent in the floor exercise. The body provides a response to maintain the balance over the ball. In this way, the muscles, which come into play to keep the balance, are strengthened. The instability over exercise balls provokes the need to estimate the body's position in space. This is called "proprioception". The movement of the spine encourages the production of natural pain inhibitors in the body. Various exercises like Back extension, Ball balance, Butt Lift, Hip extension, Abs Roll, Ball rotation and Ball twist are performed.

Types

The exercise ball is made of plastic, vinyl or solid foam rubber. While using Inflatable ones precaution must be taken not to wear anything pointed that would pierce the ball. Air pumps are needed to fill these with air. Some assert that the design of the ball is such, that when punctured air escapes slowly avoiding a mishap. Those made of plastic can be damaged if exposed to sunlight for a long time. The Sissel Exercise Ball is used for cardiovascular exercises, rehabilitation, core strength and toning major muscles. The Aero Ball is majorly used for aerobics and cardio exercises. The soft feel of this ball enables to use it for Yoga and Pilates. The Swiss Ball Pro is used in combination with heavy dumbbells. The Extreme Ball is also called the bodybuilder's ball. It substitutes a workout bench in heavy-duty weight application. FitBall is the world's most acclaimed exercise ball. It is latex free, burst resistant and having weight 600 lbs.