Get on the Ball

My favorite tool to build core strength is the stability ball. Stability balls are designed to challenge your core by putting your body in an unstable environment. When you sit on the ball, your core (inner unit) immediately contracts to keep you from falling off. Good stability and basic core function is required before you begin to train on the ball. And by training with the ball you can accelerate your acquisition of good stability, balance and function.

There are many ways to train on the ball. But remember the basic rule – quality before quantity, applies.

Weight training. Use the stability ball as your 'weight bench' (supporting function) to add difficulty to the movements and incorporate the muscles of your legs, butt and abs.

Abdominal training. Use the stability ball to perform trunk stability movements (with or without a second ball). Sit on exercise ball, activate the core, lift one leg (keep it at hip level) and hold for 5 seconds. You can then lift the other leg. To progress, add opposite arms (either fully extended or bent as shown below).

My Body Ball Workout DVD presents a full range of core abdominal exercises – check out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGx3REWxnFQ. To help you or your clients with your training, you may order the DVD for only $20.00 (spring sale price) plus the cost of shipping and handling (http://www.gaiaadventures.com/dvd.html for additional information).

Email me your questions and concerns at info@gaiaadventures.com. I am here to help you train you and your clients.

Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures
http://www.gaiaadventures.com (click here to access my blog, Facebook and Twitter links)


UPCOMING EVENTS:

Core Activation and Assessment Techniques mini-workshop
Sunday May 29, 10 to 12:00pm in Vancouver, 2 credits MTABC and BCRPA
Registration fee only $97.00 (taxes included) for one workshop, $250.00 for all three with an added value of my professional DVD).
To register email info@gaiaadventures.com or call 604 329.1257. I look forward to meeting you.

My next stability ball workshop (basic 2 day) Vancouver June 17,18 (basic) sign up for 1 or 2 days or June 19 (advanced body ball workshop) accredited for Massage therapists and Personal Trainers. I hope you can join me.


Catherine D’Aoust at GAIA Adventures
http://www.gaiaadventures.com