The BOSU ball is a piece of exercise equipment that improves balance and core muscles. It can be used with the ball or backboard side up and is versatile for various exercises. Invented by David Weck, it is more expensive than a stability ball but is a desirable tool for building strength and balance.
A balance trainer, or BOSU ball, is a piece of exercise equipment that looks like a giant ball that has been cut in half and attached to a flat base. Balance trainer is a proper term for the device because it is intended to improve the user’s balance. Additionally, many fitness experts believe the device can help build the user’s core, the key muscles found in the back and abdomen.
The acronym BOSU stands for “Both Sides Up,” which means users can use the device with the ball half or backboard side up. Some coaches like to say that BOSU stands for “Both Sides Used,” a statement that is accurate and employs a much more elaborate word. Both sides of the balance trainer place demands on the user’s core muscles.
A simple exercise to improve balance has the user stand on the dome-shaped side of the balance trainer with their eyes closed, then raise one leg. Beginners can try to hold the position for 10 seconds, stopping immediately if they feel they are in danger of falling. As they gain better balance, users will probably be able to hold the position for a minute or more.
Users can use the balance trainer in various ways. A challenging exercise is jumping rope while trying to land both feet on the ball. The balance trainer can also be combined with light weight training programs using free weights, the advantage being that the exerciser can exercise their core muscles while gaining the extra strength that comes from lifting weights. Trainers and athletes have found the Balance Trainer useful in Pilates, cardio, toning, and other fitness regimens.
The device was invented in 1999 by David Weck, a former college athlete turned fitness professional. Weck says that he suffered from chronic lower back pain after a motorcycle accident. He found that traditional forms of physical therapy were not helping, so he tried standing on a stability ball to improve his balance. Naturally, he fell. Weck decided to cut the ball in half, allowing it to lie flat and reducing the distance to the hard ground in case it landed again.
Weck has invented other fitness devices, but it is the balance trainer that has become the most common in gyms. It’s typically more expensive than a stability ball, which is a consideration for anyone looking to purchase home exercise equipment. Its versatility and relative safety make it a desirable tool for many people looking to build strength and balance.
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