When it comes to working out and getting in shape, there are countless ways to accomplish your goals. One method that has been gaining popularity in recent years is using an exercise ball.
Not only can it help improve your posture and core strength, but it can also add a new level of challenge to traditional exercises. Here are some ways you can get fit with the power of the ball:.
1. Plank
Begin by placing your hands on the exercise ball and extending your legs out behind you so that you’re in the plank position. Hold for at least 30 seconds and repeat for four sets. This exercise will engage your core and help improve your balance.
2. Crunches
Lie on the exercise ball with your feet flat on the ground and your back straight. Place your hands behind your head and slowly lift your shoulders off of the ball while engaging your core muscles. Lower back down and repeat for three sets of 12 reps.
This variation on crunches will target your abs and provide a more challenging workout than traditional crunches.
3. Squats
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and place the exercise ball between your lower back and a wall. Slowly squat down as though you’re sitting in a chair, keeping your back straight and your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
Slowly stand back up and repeat for three sets of 12 reps. This exercise will target your legs and glutes while also engaging your core muscles for balance.
4. Russian Twists
Sit on the exercise ball with your feet flat on the ground and your back straight. Hold a medicine ball or weight with both hands and twist your torso to the right, touching the weight to the ground.
Twist back to the left and touch the weight to the ground on the other side. Repeat for three sets of 12 reps. This exercise will target your obliques and improve your core strength.
5. Wall Sits
Hold the exercise ball between your thighs and stand with your back flat against a wall. Slowly lower yourself down until your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle and hold for at least 30 seconds. Repeat for four sets.
This exercise will target your legs and add a challenging new element to the traditional wall sit.
6. Push-Ups
Place your hands on the exercise ball and extend your legs out behind you so that you’re in the push-up position. Lower yourself down towards the ball and push back up. Repeat for three sets of 12 reps.
This exercise will target your chest and arms while also engaging your core muscles for balance.
7. Hamstring Curls
Lie on your back with your feet on the exercise ball. Lift your hips off the ground and engage your core muscles. Slowly roll the ball in towards your butt, bending your knees. Slowly roll it back out and repeat for three sets of 12 reps.
This exercise will target your hamstrings and glutes.
8. Superman
Lie face down on the exercise ball with your feet on the ground and your arms outstretched in front of you. Slowly lift your arms, legs, and chest off the ball while engaging your core muscles. Slowly lower back down and repeat for three sets of 12 reps.
This exercise will target your back and improve your overall posture.
9. Lunges
Place one foot on the exercise ball and step forward with the other foot, bending your knee at a 90-degree angle. Slowly step back and repeat on the other side. Repeat for three sets of 12 reps. This exercise will target your legs and glutes.
10. Bridge
Lie on your back with your feet on the exercise ball and your arms at your sides. Lift your hips off the ground and engage your core muscles. Hold for at least 30 seconds and repeat for three sets.
This exercise will target your glutes and improve your overall core strength.