Stability ball exercises vs traditional abs exercises

Is there any evidence to suggest stability ball exercises activate the trunk muscles any more than traditional resistance exercises? One study found that during biceps curls the activity in the rectus abdominis and external obliques increased. Another study concluded that 5 weeks of Swiss ball core stability and balance exercises increased torso balance and EMG activity compared to conventional floor exercises in women.

Other studies have established that only some of the core muscles are activated to a greater extent during stability ball exercises. Several studies have shown that while stability ball exercises may improve core stability they are not necessarily any superior to conventional exercises. Of importance to athletes is that stability ball exercises may reduce maximum force production. The decreased balance associated with resistance training on an unstable surface may force the limbs (and not the core) to play a greater role in joint stability. It would be unwise for athletes to replace all resistance training on stable surfaces with stability ball exercises.

In conclusion then, research is inconclusive as to whether stability ball exercises are superior to conventional strength training when it comes to core stability. However stability ball training does seem to improve core strength and they offer some decided advantages over traditional free weights.

Learn more about strength 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, Kinesiologist, Workshops
www.gaiaadventures.com

Stability Ball Workshop (basic 2 day) Calgary March 23, 24, Advanced Body Ball Workshop Calgary March 25, MTAA approved.
Foam Rolling Workshop (1 day) Vancouver Feb 25, Advanced Body Ball Workshop Vancouver (1 day) Feb 26. CECs