Taking Advantage of the Pilates Exercise Ball

April 26, 2010 by Jill Hagelsteiner
Filed under Pilates

In recent years, Pilates has become increasingly popular. This is likely do to the effective increase in stamina, balance, and focus. The Pilates Exercise Ball is similarly increasing in popularity. The exercise ball can spice up any workout and add a new challenge to those not familiar with it. Luckily, Pilates Exercise Balls aren’t expensive and can be easily found.

Easy to Pick Out

You can visit just about any athletic store to find a selection of Pilates Exercise Balls. They come in a variety of colors and sizes. Make sure you purchase one that is designed to hold your body weight plus the mass of any weights you intend to use. Pick out a ball circumference that is right for you and don’t forget to choose your favorite color. It could be a good idea to purchase a video to help you get started. If you want to use a Pilates Exercise Ball as part of a traditional Pilates workout, then look for a video that has mat and weight work too. Otherwise look for a video that focuses on the Pilates Exercise Ball.

A Worthy Addition

Your new exercise ball is the ideal piece of fitness equipment. Not only is it lightweight, affordable, and portable, but it can be deflated, which makes it even easier to transport. How many other pieces of exercise equipment can you carry in your suitcase while traveling? The Pilates Exercise Ball will increase your balance, focus, and coordination like never before. Teaching your body to stay balanced even while on a wobbly ball can be a satisfying challenge.

The Pilates Exercise Ball is ideal for keeping your entire body toned. To keep balanced, your core muscles must constantly work. Additionally, you can do many traditional weight training workouts while using a Pilates Exercise Ball. This adds a unique challenge to even simple exercises like the bench press or biceps curl. Try using the ball as a bench and you will realize just how many muscles you weren’t using before! Try laying back on the ball and doing sit-ups, or put your feet on the ball while doing pushups.

Additionally, your spine and back will safely become stronger and more flexible. By rolling your back along the Pilates Exercise Ball, you can give your spine a relaxing stretch and massage. Hanging over the ball on your back and then on your stomach can allow for a rejuvenating stretch. Every workout can be improved with the addition of a Pilates Ball.

You can find plenty of information about pilates online. For more information take a look at this site on pilates exercise ball.