Build your Core: On the Ball part 2

As you know, there are many ways to train for stability and function. Pilates mat exercises are still very popular and effective for this purpose. But for me, stability ball training (body ball) adds a certain element of "fun" to the workout. It is also technically less demanding than Pilates and yields dramatic results quickly. Here are other great exercises to continue building the core.


Intermediate: Pike, or Sea Urchin
The pike, or sea urchin, helps develop spinal stabilization by requiring the core musculature to stabilize against dynamic challenge. Begin prone over the ball. Assume a push-up position with the ball under the thighs. Hold this position, keeping the spine in neutral. Once stabilization is mastered, add a challenge by flexing the spine and hips slightly while rolling the ball forward. Return slowly to the prone plank position.

 Watch that the back neither sags nor hyperextends. Keep the head and neck in neutral. If a student has weak wrists, she can either do the same exercise on her forearms or place dumbbells (that do not roll) on the floor to elevate her hands. Just holding the prone position can be a challenging core workout.


Advanced: Prone Abduction and Rotation
This exercise challenges balance, coordination, focus and core strength. As in the pike exercise, begin prone over the ball. Assume a push-up position, ball resting under the thighs. Hold this position, keeping the spine neutral. Once stabilization is mastered, add a challenge by lifting and abducting one leg off the ball. Replace that leg, and try the same move with the other leg. Once that is mastered, lift one leg off of the ball, abduct, and then rotate and bend the lifted leg under the other leg. Return to the start position, and repeat on other side. 



Learn more about core training at my Stability Ball Training workshops accredited for Massage Therapists and Personal Trainers across Canada http://www.gaiaadventures.com/bodyball.html

Let's connect at info@gaiaadventures.com.

Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures
www.gaiaadventures.com

Stability Ball Training in Toronto Sept 17, 18, 19, Ottawa Sept 24, 25, 26 and Vancouver, Oct 28, 29, 30 in Edmonton, Nov 26, 27, 28 (7 primary credits MTAA/day).