Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Fitness Ball - Using It In Pilates

By Julia Channel

Searching for fast results? Combining a fitness ball with your Pilates workout will help you reach that goal while you are having a good time.

The fitness ball elevates you and works stabilizing muscles like no other exercise.

The fitness ball was first known as the "Pezzi Ball" and afterwards became known as the Swiss ball. The diameter of a fitness ball can be anywhere from 35 cm to 85 cm. It is fabricated from an elastic form of PVC to ensure strength enough to withstand the pressure.

Although Swiss balls were initially used with newborns and infants, they started being used in the fitness industry and as a physiotherapy tool. Though these fitness balls were never intended for Pilates, as soon as devotees of the program realised their value, they eagerly incorporated them into all their routines.

The balancing that is required when using the fitness ball in Pilates is a great way to achieve the thin and trim body that you desire. Since you need to work to maintain your stability, a fitness ball makes your Pilates workout a lot more effective with only a tiny bit more work.

Exactly what does a fitness ball add to your workout? A fitness ball strengthens the small muscles around your spine. They are known as micro stabilisers. This toning strengthens the musculature and helps prevent back injury and pain. When you strengthen the muscles around your spine, it gives you more body strength in general. When you achieve that, you can do more challenging workouts without getting tired.

The fitness ball conditions both your abdominal and your back muscles.

A fitness ball adds a lot to your workout. It makes it fun and interesting because you have twice the flexibility and opportunity for stretching and exercise than if you just did a regular workout. Using a fitness ball instead of a chair as your base puts an end to boring, repetitive exercise. You do not have to deal with hard floors any longer.

Looking for more? You can add weights to the equation: just take care that you choose a much lower weight than for a usual routine, because the combination of stabilising and weights intensifies the workout. You will soon be able to lift even greater weights using this method as your overall strength increases.

The use of a fitness ball in Pilates requires careful attention to your form. Remember that using the ball increases the intensity of your workout dramatically. Allow yourself the freedom to complete a lower level of reps, maintaining perfect form. The stabiliser muscles will become stronger and you will soon discover that your fitness level has increased.

If you want to discover more about how a fitness ball can assist you in your Pilates workout or other exercise routines, visit the site. - 15485

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