Cardio balls are inflatable rubber balls used for strength and cardiovascular exercises in gyms and at home. They provide a new twist on common routines and are safe for a wide range of ages and fitness levels. They were first used in physical therapy and have since become a regular fixture in gyms and exercise videos. The possibilities for cardio ball routines are numerous, and they can be used for a total body workout. They come in a variety of sizes and are relatively inexpensive.
The term cardio ball most commonly refers to an inflatable rubber ball ranging from 17.7 inches (45 cm) to 29.5 inches (75 cm) in diameter, which is sometimes referred to as a stability or balance ball. This equipment is used in gyms and at home for a variety of strength exercises and cardiovascular exercises. Aerobics, weight lifting, yoga and Pilates are some activities that incorporate the cardio ball. Stability ball users tend to enjoy the new twist on common strength and cardio routines that the equipment provides, as well as its relative ease of use. The ball is said to be safe for a wide range of ages and fitness levels.
Cardio balls were first used to help physical therapy patients gradually build strength while targeting specific muscle groups with little to no impact. Finally, fitness experts recognized the possibilities of incorporating the cardio ball into an exercise regimen. Since then, the use of stability balls has steadily increased, and the equipment has become a regular fixture in gyms and in exercise videos and exercise magazines.
The possibilities for cardio ball routines are numerous. Many of these exercises focus on core strength, although a total body workout can be achieved with the ball. The use of the round and potentially mobile equipment requires the use of the core muscles, as well as the muscles of the legs or arms, depending on the training, to maintain balance on the ball. One can use weights while sitting on top of the ball to add more challenge to the core while working biceps, triceps, shoulders, and back.
Squats while sitting on the ball or push-ups with your feet or hands balanced on the ball require more muscle groups and tend to raise your heart rate more than when these exercises are done without the ball. Aerobic exercises sometimes use the cardio ball for a change from the normal routine by incorporating bouncing the ball, holding it, and moving it with your body. Various videos depicting the various exercises possible with the cardio ball can be found on digital video discs (DVDs) or exercise websites.
The relatively inexpensive, lightweight cardio ball was designed to be used by people of any age and level of health and mobility. Stability balls come in a variety of sizes so everyone can find their perfect fit. Sizing charts can be found online or in boxes containing some cardio balls; However, a general rule of thumb is to make sure an individual’s knees are at a 90 degree angle when sitting on the ball.
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