About the exercise ball..is it "really" useful?

Question

I've never done any work outs using the exercise ball, in fact i'm a bit skeptical about it. compared to the same workouts like ab crunches and reverse curls, do they give more significant results if the ball is used? if it doesn't then i might just stick to exercise mat alone.

Answer 1

no fun to bounce though

Answer 2

Exercise (or 'Swiss') balls are a very powerful aid when working out, as they enable you to activate your core muscles when exercising.

When you just use a mat you work the major muscle groups. If you do sit-ups, curls or other exercise on an exercise ball the instability of the ball causes your core muscles to work as well as those you normally work when doing the exercise.

Core muscles are important for posture and balance, and improving core strength can make huge improvements in any sport you compete in.

Many professional atheletes incorporate ball work into their routines in loads of ways. The most impressive I've seen is a member of the NZ All Blacks Rugby team standing on a ball, passing a dumbbell from one outstretched arm to the other. Serious core strength!

Answer 3

i bought one and used it once and now it has a happy home in my closet...make sure you are really committed to using it

Answer 4

its just an excuse to bounce on a ball