Exercise balls are also called stability balls. Use them for a variety of ab workouts as they not only provide support but can also introduce instability in some exercise, which creates a tougher workout. To avoid injury to your back, knees or hips, you need to use an exercise ball that is the proper size for your body.
Size Choices
Exercise balls are measured in centimeters or inches. For those 4 foot 6 inches and shorter, a 30-cm ball, or one that is 12 inches, is appropriate. For those 4 foot 6 inches to 5 feet tall, a 45-cm ball, or 18-inch, is appropriate. If you're 5 foot 1 inch to 5 foot 7 inches, use a 55-cm or 22-inch ball. Those who measure 5 foot 8 inches need a 65-cm or 26-inch ball. If you are over 6 foot 2 inches, use a 75-cm or 30-inch ball.
Choosing the Right Size
If you haven't a ruler handy, use the rule of thumb recommended by the American Council on Exercise: When seated on the ball, your knees and hips should form a 90-degree angle. However, your weight also has an impact on the ball to choose. If you are overweight, choose larger ball to better support you as you begin your abdominal program.
Inflation
Balls lose their air over time. Regularly re-inflating them can make the ball harder, which increases the difficulty of your workout. However, you may prefer a softer ball if you're just starting out. Softer balls provide more support as you sink more deeply into the ball when lying on it to work your abs.
Considerations
If you're working out at the gym, use a towel to cover the ball before you lie back to being your ab workout, or wipe it down with antiseptic wipes. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, is a virulent bacteria that may contaminate shared gym equipment. Without being cleansed, equipment that comes in contact with your body or sweat could be contaminated and remain that way for hours. Since many workouts incorporate abdominals at the end, it's likely the ball has been in contact with sweat created during the workout -- wipe it with antiseptic wipes provided by your gym for healthy prevention of infection.
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