Top 10 Exercise Balls

Top 10 Exercise Balls
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Exercise balls can add versatility to any fitness program and are available in various forms. At home or inth gym, they help you incorporate non-traditional methods of strength training into your exercise regimen. The top exercise balls used among fitness individuals and professionals provide a dynamic and challenging way of effectively engaging major muscle groups.

Stability Ball

Stability balls offer many fitness benefits and allow the user to perform a variety of different exercises. They are available in three different sizes: 55 cm, 65 cm and 75 cm. Core strength exercises are commonly performed on the stability ball, but these large rubber balls aren't limited to just targeting this specific muscle group.

Medicine Ball

The medicine ball is a multi-functional piece of equipment that adds variety to any strength training program. These weighted balls come in a wide range of styles and weights, and are great for targeting the core and strengthening the entire body.

BOSU Ball

The BOSU ball balance trainer provides endless possibilities for improving core strength, balance, and toning muscles. Whether you are performing traditional exercises on top the BOSU or pumping out advanced abdominal moves, the BOSU is an excellent way to help individuals at all fitness levels reach personal fitness goals.

Pilates Soft Weighted Ball

The Pilates soft weighted ball or toning ball is a great way to increase intensity during toning exercises. Although, popular among Pilates users, a soft weighted ball--ranging from one to three pounds--is a great addition to any aerobics routine or rehabilitation program.

Bender Ball

The Bender ball is another core training alternative. This mini, air-filled ball provides a more intense workout compared to traditional floor exercises.

Swing Core Crunch Ball

The swing core crunch ball is a medicine ball with a braided rope cord attached. The swinging motion of this ball is credited with helping athletes develop muscular power and core strength.

Sensy Ball

The sensy ball provides a soft surface made of prickly, nerve-stimulating bumps that increase blood flow during exercise. The sensy ball ranges in size from 6 cm to 65 cm, and is great for performing relaxation exercises, as well as providing fitness therapy exercises for children.

Jump Ball

A jump ball is a large, inflatable rubber ball with two sturdy handles. It is ideal for fun exercise activities geared toward children and adults up to 300 pounds.

Chinese Exercise Balls

Chinese exercise balls are used in Chinese medicine and are noted for stimulating various acupuncture points on your hand to improve circulation and blood flow. Regular practice of moving the balls in different directions not only provides circulation benefits but improves strength in the hand, forearm, and shoulder muscles.

Rubber Playground Ball

A rubber playground ball isn't just for kicking around during recess. This 8.5 inch ball is great for performing several different toning exercises and can even be used like the Bender ball for core exercises.

References

Article reviewed by GayleZorrilla Last updated on: Jun 8, 2010

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