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# Ab Exercises on a Yoga Ball: A Comprehensive Guide
Author: Dr. Anya Sharma, PhD, Certified Kinesiologist & Yoga Instructor
Dr. Anya Sharma holds a PhD in Exercise Physiology and is a certified kinesiologist with over 15 years of experience in designing and implementing fitness programs. Her expertise lies in functional training and the integration of yoga principles into fitness routines. She is a certified yoga instructor with extensive knowledge of postural alignment and core stabilization, making her uniquely qualified to discuss the benefits and techniques of ab exercises on a yoga ball.
Publisher: Fitness & Wellness Journal
Fitness & Wellness Journal is a peer-reviewed publication dedicated to disseminating evidence-based information on fitness, health, and wellness. The journal has a strong reputation for publishing high-quality research and practical application articles relevant to fitness professionals and enthusiasts. Their expertise in fitness and wellness makes them a credible publisher for an article on ab exercises on a yoga ball.
Editor: Dr. David Lee, PhD, Exercise Science
Dr. David Lee holds a PhD in Exercise Science and has over 20 years of experience editing scientific publications in the field of fitness and sports science. His expertise in peer review and scientific writing ensures the accuracy and clarity of the information presented in the article.
The History and Current Relevance of Ab Exercises on a Yoga Ball
The use of instability devices in fitness training has gained significant traction in recent years. While free weights and traditional exercise machines remain staples, incorporating tools like yoga balls has revolutionized how we approach core strengthening, particularly ab exercises on a yoga ball. The concept itself isn't entirely new; the use of unstable surfaces for training dates back to ancient practices that involved balancing on uneven terrain. However, the modern application of yoga balls for targeted ab workouts emerged more recently, alongside the growing popularity of yoga and Pilates.
The yoga ball, also known as a stability ball or Swiss ball, was initially used primarily in physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Its inherent instability forced individuals to engage their core muscles more actively to maintain balance, making it ideal for strengthening the deep abdominal muscles. This inherent instability is the key factor behind the effectiveness of ab exercises on a yoga ball. It necessitates constant core engagement, leading to a more comprehensive workout compared to static exercises performed on a stable surface.
Today, ab exercises on a yoga ball are a popular component of various fitness programs, including:
Core strengthening: The instability of the ball challenges the deep core muscles – the transverse abdominis, rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques – forcing them to work harder to maintain stability. This leads to improved core strength and stability, beneficial for everyday activities and athletic performance.
Improved posture: Consistent engagement of the core muscles during ab exercises on a yoga ball helps improve posture by strengthening the muscles responsible for supporting the spine.
Increased functional fitness: The dynamic nature of these exercises enhances functional fitness, which is the ability to perform everyday tasks efficiently and effectively.
Enhanced flexibility: Some yoga ball ab exercises incorporate stretching movements that improve flexibility in the abdominal area and lower back.
Rehabilitation: The controlled instability of the yoga ball makes it a useful tool in rehabilitation programs, especially for individuals recovering from back injuries or abdominal surgeries. It allows for gradual strengthening without placing excessive stress on the affected area.
Types of Ab Exercises on a Yoga Ball
Numerous ab exercises can be performed effectively on a yoga ball, each targeting different abdominal muscles. Here are some examples:
Ball Crunches: This is a classic ab exercise adapted for the yoga ball. Lie on the ball with your lower back supported, feet flat on the floor. Perform crunches by curling your upper body towards your knees. The instability of the ball requires greater core engagement.
Reverse Crunches: Lie on the ball with your shoulders and upper back supported, knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Pull your knees towards your chest, engaging your lower abdominals.
Plank on the Ball: Position your forearms on the ball and maintain a straight line from head to heels, engaging your entire core. This exercise enhances core stability and endurance.
Rollouts: Start in a plank position with your hands on the ball. Roll the ball forward, extending your body, and then roll back to the starting position. This is a challenging exercise that targets the entire core musculature.
Side Plank with Ball: Support your body weight on one forearm and your side, placing your legs on the yoga ball. Hold this position, engaging your obliques for improved stability.
Leg Raises: Sit on the yoga ball with your feet flat on the floor. Keeping your core engaged, lift your legs off the floor. The instability of the ball enhances the effectiveness of the leg raise, improving lower abdominal strength.
Russian Twists: Sit on the yoga ball with your knees bent and feet slightly off the ground. Lean back slightly, keeping your core engaged, and twist your torso from side to side. Holding a weight enhances the intensity of the exercise.
Important Considerations:
Proper form is crucial when performing ab exercises on a yoga ball. Incorrect posture can lead to injuries, especially to the lower back. Beginners should start with easier variations and gradually increase the difficulty as they gain strength and stability. It's essential to find a suitable ball size, ensuring that your body is properly supported during the exercises.
Conclusion
Ab exercises on a yoga ball offer a dynamic and effective way to strengthen the core muscles, improve posture, and enhance functional fitness. Their versatility allows for a wide range of exercises, catering to different fitness levels and goals. However, proper form and gradual progression are crucial to prevent injuries. By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you can enjoy the numerous benefits of a strong and stable core.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are ab exercises on a yoga ball safe for beginners? Yes, but start with simpler variations and gradually increase the difficulty. Proper form is essential to avoid injury.
2. What size yoga ball should I use? The size depends on your height. Consult a size chart to find the appropriate ball for your height.
3. How often should I do ab exercises on a yoga ball? Aim for 2-3 sessions per week, allowing for adequate rest between workouts.
4. Can I use a yoga ball for other exercises besides ab exercises? Yes, yoga balls are versatile and can be used for various exercises targeting different muscle groups.
5. Do I need any special equipment besides the yoga ball? While not always necessary, some people may prefer to use resistance bands or weights to increase the challenge.
6. How long should I hold each exercise? The duration depends on your fitness level. Start with shorter holds and gradually increase the time as you get stronger.
7. What are the most common mistakes to avoid? Avoid arching your back and ensure proper core engagement throughout the exercises.
8. Can ab exercises on a yoga ball help with back pain? They can help strengthen the core muscles, which support the spine, reducing the risk of back pain. However, consult with a healthcare professional if you have pre-existing back pain.
9. What are the alternatives to using a yoga ball for ab exercises? Alternatives include using a stability disc, exercise mat, or performing traditional ab exercises on the floor.
Related Articles:
1. Advanced Ab Exercises on a Yoga Ball: This article delves into challenging variations of ab exercises on a yoga ball, suitable for intermediate and advanced fitness levels.
2. Yoga Ball Workouts for Beginners: A guide to beginner-friendly yoga ball exercises, including modifications for those new to fitness.
3. Ab Exercises on a Yoga Ball for Weight Loss: This article focuses on using ab exercises on a yoga ball as part of a comprehensive weight loss program.
4. Yoga Ball Exercises for Core Stability: This article provides a detailed analysis of yoga ball exercises that specifically target core stability and balance.
5. Comparing Traditional Ab Exercises vs. Yoga Ball Ab Exercises: A comparison of the effectiveness and benefits of traditional ab exercises and ab exercises on a yoga ball.
6. Rehabilitation Exercises Using a Yoga Ball: This article explores the use of yoga balls in rehabilitation programs for various injuries.
7. Yoga Ball Exercises for Postpartum Recovery: This article focuses on safe and effective yoga ball exercises for women recovering postpartum.
8. Yoga Ball Exercises for Seniors: This article provides modified yoga ball exercises suitable for older adults.
9. Building a Full Body Workout with a Yoga Ball: This article demonstrates how to create a complete full-body workout routine using the versatility of a yoga ball.
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Abs on the Ball Colleen Craig, 2003-03-27 Innovative abdominal exercises to help tone the abdomen, improve posture, and build a strong back using the Swiss exercise ball. Offers a 10-minute and 20-minute workout for all levels of fitness. Shows how the mobility of the ball targets underutilized muscles. Shows how traditional sit-ups and ab machines limit how much abdominal muscles can be trained and also aggravate lower back pain and neck tension. The exercise ball has long been recommended by doctors, physical therapists, and Olympic coaches for people suffering from back pain. Now Colleen Craig, author of the bestselling book Pilates on the Ball, reveals why the exercise ball is unmatched as a tool for building superb abdominal strength. She presents a selection of over 80 innovative exercises, including some of the key powerhouse-builders from the Pilates Method, all of which she has adapted specifically to the ball. Craig shows how traditional sit-ups and ab machines actually limit the degree to which abdominal muscles can be trained and can even aggravate lower back pain and neck tension. In contrast, the very mobility of the ball targets underutilized muscles, recruiting both deep and superficial abdominal muscle fibers to enhance results. Abs on the Ball includes exercises for all ability levels that show how to properly use the breath and how to activate the correct muscles during a workout--from the core exercises of the Waterfall, Oblique Curls, and Full Abdominal Curls to the more advanced Side Twist Plank, the Teaser, and Backward Crunch. The author also offers a 10- and 20-minute workout designed not only to build the abdominal core, but also to strengthen and train deep muscles in the back and hip in order to soothe lower back pain and increase overall body strength, balance, and coordination. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Ultimate Core Ball Workout Jeanine Detz, 2005-06 Transform your core muscles with unstable workouts using the exercise ball with this revolutionary fitness book from author Jeanine Detz. From shapely abs to the Pilates Powerhouse, core strengthening has become the main focus for today's exercise enthusiasts. Now, Ultimate Core Ball Workout takes core training to a higher level with its on-the-ball variations of traditional mat exercises. The unique benefits of ball training enable the program in Ultimate Core Ball Workout to produce better results in less time. Any crunch will work the abs, but this book's crunch on the ball simultaneously engages the stabilizing muscles of the abdomen and lower body, working more muscle and producing a more sculpted midsection faster. The exercises outlined in this book are suitable for all levels, from beginner to fitness professional, and the photo sequences and clearly written captions teach proper techniques. Offering more than just good-looking abs, the program in Ultimate Core Ball Workout produces numerous health and fitness benefits, including a stronger, more supportive back, improved posture, better performance in sports, and even more enjoyable sex. Plus, each exercise is presented with tips and modifications to increase the challenge so readers can continue to improve and get stronger over time. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Get on the Ball for Great Abs Lisa Westlake, 2006-12-26 Forget those expensive ab infomercial gadgets — all you need for toned abs and a strong, defined, flexible body is an exercise ball and Get on the Ball for Great Abs. In her first book, Get on the Ball, fitness expert Lisa Westlake showed just how fun and easy it is to get in shape using the wobbly exercise ball, as stabilizing one's body on it requires using new skills to wake up your muscles. Now, she offers more than 60 all-new, easy-to-follow exercises, including some featuring weights, specifically geared toward strengthening the core, abdominal and obliques muscles to perfect your waistline. Each exercise is illustrated with a black and white photo and the workouts progress from easy to higher degrees of difficulty, making this ideal for beginners, avid gym-goers, and top athletes alike. For anyone who wants a slimmer waistline and more stable, defined abs, Get on the Ball for Great Abs will help readers get the best from their exercise ball. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Prolapse Exercises Inside Out Michelle Kenway, 2013-07-31 Prolapse exercises helps women improve prolapse support and exercise with confidence to stay in shape |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Medicine Ball Workouts Brett Stewart, 2013-07-30 SUPER-CHARGE YOUR WORKOUT WITH A MEDICINE BALL Tap the power of the weighted medicine ball to tone your whole body and build lean muscles and a shredded core. Medicine Ball Workouts shows how to use one of the most useful and versatile fitness tools out there to curl, press, toss and catch your way to getting in the best shape of your life. Perfect for beginners and advanced athletes alike, this book details medicine-ball exercises like: •PUSH-UPS for increased upper-body & core strength •SQUATS , LUNGES & THRUSTERS to build a strong powerful lower body •BURPEES & TOSSES to improve explosive speed & full-body power •TURKISH GET-UPS to develop flexibility & dexterity With day-by-day programs and easy-to-follow , step-by-step exercises, Medicine Ball Workouts transforms simple moves into fun, challenging and highly effective functional cross-training workouts for total-body fitness and a ripped physique. heart-pounding cardio workouts that tone the body from shoulders to toes. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Stability Ball Exercises Marina Aagaard, 2011-06 The most comprehensive compilation of stability ball exercises available. Over 450 exercises with the stability ball, also know as the Swiss ball or strength ball. Plus even more variations. Efficient one-on-one, partner and group exercises at all levels, for beginners, intermediate and advanced exercisers, including Olympic Athletes. With more than 900 photos and step-by-step text on proper exercise technique. And a guide to progression of ball exercises. As a unique feature the book includes the most effective and enjoyable warm-up/cardio and stretching exercises with the ball. 'Stability Ball Exercises', a Scandinavian bestseller, is a valuable reference book for any coach, trainer, physical exercise leader, personal trainer, group exercise instructor, physiotherapist and PE teacher as well as exercisers at all levels. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Roll Model Jill Miller, 2014-11-04 Pain is an epidemic. It prevents you from performing at your best because it robs you of concentration, power, and peace of mind. But most pain is preventable and treatable, and healing is within your grasp. Hundreds of thousands of people around the globe have taken life “by the balls” and circumvented a dismal future of painkillers, surgeries, and hopelessness by using Jill Miller’s groundbreaking Roll Model Method. The Roll Model gives you the tools to change the course of your life in less than 5 minutes a day. You are a fully equipped self-healing organism, and this book will guide you through easy-to-perform self-massage techniques that will erase pain and improve your performance in whatever activities you pursue. The Roll Model teaches you how to improve the quality of your life no matter your size, shape, or condition. Within these pages you will find: • Inspiring stories of people just like you who have altered the course of their lives by using the Roll Model Method • Accessible explanations of how and why this system works based on the science of your body and the physiological effects of rolling • Step-by-step rolling techniques to help awaken your body’s resilience from head to toe so that you have more energy, less stress, and greater performance Whether you’re living with constant discomfort, seeking to improve your mobility, or trying to avoid medication and surgery, this book provides empowering and effective solutions for becoming your own best Roll Model. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Total Core Stability on the Ball Cherry Baker, 2004 Total Core Strength on the Ball is a comprehensive guide to a variety ofxercises for the beginner to advanced practitioner. Development of the coredeep) muscles of the abdominal area has become an essential part of anyodern exercise program, and helps us all achieve the abdominal strengthequired for excellent everyday mobility as well as providing the muscularupport required for all sporting activities.. Beginning with a guide to therinciples and benefits of core stability training, the book then takes youhrough a series of exercises: seated, supine, prone, and standing. There islso a section on stretching the body before Cherry leads the reader through series of extended programs aimed at a variety of need. There are programsor the person suffering from back pain, routines for stability work in theffice, the 15-minute work out and programs for the beginner through to thedvanced user of the stability ball. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: No-Risk Abs Blandine Calais-Germain, 2011-05-12 An illustrated guide to the anatomy of the abdominal muscles and how to tone them successfully without injury • Presents the 16 most effective and safest abdominal exercises for great abs • Reveals how common ab exercises, such as crunches, can damage the spine, pelvic floor, diaphragm, and internal organs • Offers tips to get rid of belly fat--both superficial fat and deeper visceral fat Presenting a new type of abdominal exercise program designed with the body’s anatomical relationships in mind, Blandine Calais-Germain reveals the 6 underlying principles for working the abs efficiently, 7 exercises to get you ready, and the 16 most effective and safest abdominal exercises for a flat belly. Pointing out that ab exercises are not without risk, she reviews the most common abdominal exercises, such as crunches and leg lifts, and explains how to avoid injury to the neck, lower back, pelvic floor, diaphragm, prostate, and internal organs as well as how to protect these vital structures with appropriate abdominal work. Exploring this often misunderstood region of the body in her trademark anatomical style, Calais-Germain details the muscular structures that make up the abs, revealing that strength alone is not the sole factor in a flat stomach. Including tips to get rid of belly fat--both superficial fat and deeper visceral fat--this book reveals how to get great abs, lose weight, gain strength, and build your core all without hurting yourself. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Strength Training for Fat Loss Nick Tumminello, 2023-09-28 As a leader in the fitness industry, Nick Tumminello offers a plan for losing fat with ready-to-use programs that use the three Cs of metabolic strength training--circuits, combinations, and complexes--to accelerate your metabolism and maximize fat loss while maintaining and even adding muscle. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Core Strength for 50+ Karl Knopf, 2012-08-21 Stay young with effective, efficient core strength training that will enhance your spine’s stability and re-educate correct muscle activation patterns. From swinging a golf club to carrying a bag of groceries, the core is everything. Balance, agility and youthful stature are just a few of the benefits of a toned and powerful midsection. Core Strength for fifty+ has everything you need to: Improve posture Enhance sports performance Guarantee low back health Avoid injury With workouts ranging from basic mat work routines to unstable training with foam rollers and stability balls, Core Strength for 50+ provides more than 75 exercises that build and maintain strong muscles in the abs, obliques, lower back and butt. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: The Coregasm Workout Debby Herbenick, 2015-06-09 The Coregasm Workout is a revolutionary new book that provides natural, safe, and effective techniques for enhancing sex through fitness. Developed by leading sex researcher, educator, and columnist Dr. Debby Herbenick, The Coregasm Workout introduces simple, science-backed exercises to make working out more fun and sex lives more satisfying. Debby has developed The Coregasm Workout based on her deep background in health science and unprecedented research on exercise-induced arousal in order to bring fitness and sexuality closer together. Her fact-based methods are specifically designed to improve orgasm and have been tested, refined, and proven by real women, for women. The Coregasm Workout will help improve your sex life—and help you enjoy exercising more often—through four C.O.R.E. principles: Challenge yourself through cardio, reps, and resistance Order matters: it’s not just the kind of exercises you do, but the order in which you do them Relax and receive: be open to the experience of coregasm Engage your lower abs, muscles often strongly linked to coregasm Fun, fascinating, and useful, The Coregasm Workout offers new exercise techniques for women who want to stay sexy, healthy, and fit, and enjoy the benefits of the gym in the bedroom. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Unleash Your Abs Daniel Badoi, 2024-02-21 In this comprehensive guide to building strong and defined abs, you've embarked on a transformative journey that goes beyond the surface of traditional six-pack aspirations. Let's distill the key insights and actionable steps from each chapter to empower you on your quest for a sculpted midsection |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Core Strength For Dummies LaReine Chabut, 2009-01-06 Core Strength For Dummies explores a number of workouts designed to work the different core muscles that stabilize the spine and pelvis and run the entire length of the torso. It also provides information on all of the tools and guidance needed to reach a desired fitness goal. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Ab Wheel Workouts Karl Knopf, 2013-10-22 Takes ab wheel workouts to the next level with carefully designed programs that work the entire body An incredibly effective tool for achieving a toned, sculpted physique, the ab wheel is quickly becoming one of the most popular pieces of gym and home-fitness equipment. Ab Wheel Workouts shows how to maximize its effectiveness so readers can safely strengthen the core while simultaneously working the back, arms, and legs. A simple, compact piece of exercise equipment, the ab wheel can easily be used in the comfort of home and stashed in a closet when not in use. Unlike crunches, the ab wheel strengthens the entire body in addition to the abdominals and obliques. Illustrated with 150 step-by-step photos, Ab Wheel Workouts is designed for use with all types and brands of the device. This detailed guide uncovers the full potential of the ab wheel with specific programs for everything from core strengthening and muscle toning to deep stretching and improving balance. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning NSCA -National Strength & Conditioning Association, 2021-06-01 Developed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and now in its fourth edition, Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning is the essential text for strength and conditioning professionals and students. This comprehensive resource, created by 30 expert contributors in the field, explains the key theories, concepts, and scientific principles of strength training and conditioning as well as their direct application to athletic competition and performance. The scope and content of Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, Fourth Edition With HKPropel Access, have been updated to convey the knowledge, skills, and abilities required of a strength and conditioning professional and to address the latest information found on the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam. The evidence-based approach and unbeatable accuracy of the text make it the primary resource to rely on for CSCS exam preparation. The text is organized to lead readers from theory to program design and practical strategies for administration and management of strength and conditioning facilities. The fourth edition contains the most current research and applications and several new features: Online videos featuring 21 resistance training exercises demonstrate proper exercise form for classroom and practical use. Updated research—specifically in the areas of high-intensity interval training, overtraining, agility and change of direction, nutrition for health and performance, and periodization—helps readers better understand these popular trends in the industry. A new chapter with instructions and photos presents techniques for exercises using alternative modes and nontraditional implements. Ten additional tests, including those for maximum strength, power, and aerobic capacity, along with new flexibility exercises, resistance training exercises, plyometric exercises, and speed and agility drills help professionals design programs that reflect current guidelines. Key points, chapter objectives, and learning aids including key terms and self-study questions provide a structure to help students and professionals conceptualize the information and reinforce fundamental facts. Application sidebars provide practical application of scientific concepts that can be used by strength and conditioning specialists in real-world settings, making the information immediately relatable and usable. Online learning tools delivered through HKPropel provide students with 11 downloadable lab activities for practice and retention of information. Further, both students and professionals will benefit from the online videos of 21 foundational exercises that provide visual instruction and reinforce proper technique. Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, Fourth Edition, provides the most comprehensive information on organization and administration of facilities, testing and evaluation, exercise techniques, training adaptations, program design, and structure and function of body systems. Its scope, precision, and dependability make it the essential preparation text for the CSCS exam as well as a definitive reference for strength and conditioning professionals to consult in their everyday practice. Note: A code for accessing HKPropel is not included with this ebook but may be purchased separately. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Fitness Ball Olivia H. Miller, 2011-04-29 One tool, fifty exercises for strength and balance—an excellent fitness resource from the author of Healthy Back. This e-book of toning techniques uses one simple and versatile tool—the fitness ball—and provides fifty ways to help tone and strengthen core stabilizers and maintain balance. First used in physical therapy to build resistance and regain strength in particular parts of the body following injury, fitness balls have rolled into the mainstream as popular and effective tools for muscle conditioning and for enhancing any overall fitness program. You’ll have a ball! |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Exercise Management Guide Dr. Rajiv Sharma, 2005 |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: The All-Day Fat-Burning Diet Yuri Elkaim, 2015-12-22 You are often told that eating less and exercising more are the keys to losing weight; but even with multiple plans and temporary successes, you fail to find lasting results with this old method. Yuri Elkaim's The All-Day Fat-Burning Diet provides the solution with his 5-Day Calorie Cycling Formula that sets your metabolism to lose up to 5 pounds a week. This plan eliminates the causes of weight gain and pushes the reset button on your fat-burning capacity. No combination of calorie cutting, exercising, or restrictive dieting will help you look and feel great unless you set your body to burn fat and lose weight all day, all night, when you're not eating or working out--24/7. In The All-Day Fat-Burning Diet, Elkaim reveals rarely discussed fat triggers along with an easy and innovative way to double weight loss in just 3 weeks. Based on a powerhouse blend of nutritional know-how, fitness experience, and solid science, Elkaim's four-pronged approach features (1) strategically cycling calories and carbohydrates; (2) eating clean and lean foods that reduce fat triggers in the body; (3) exercising more intelligently; and (4) improving the body's ability to repair and avoid burnout. This proven program will reset your body to your desired factory settings and supercharge your metabolism to burn fat on autopilot--no matter age, fitness level, or health status. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Weight Training For Dummies LaReine Chabut, 2014-12-31 Tone up, burn calories, stay strong Weight Training For Dummies makes it easy to get started with weight training by offering trusted and straightforward guidance on the latest circuit and resistance training, and all-new information on the highly popular bodyweight and High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Whether you're working with dumbbells, free weight sets, or machines, you'll find out how to combine weight training with other exercise to properly strength train and get in the best shape of your life. Along with aerobic exercise and flexibility, body weight training is an integral part of a complete physical activity program. But with all the different equipment and techniques available, getting started can feel overwhelming. Want to get pumped about weight training? Consider these facts: strength training, whether via free weights or a machine, builds muscle. And the more muscle you have, the higher your metabolism and the less prone you are to injuries—in and out of the gym. Plus, strength training promotes bone strength, which can significantly reduce your odds of developing osteoporosis. If that's not enough, strength training—unlike cardio workouts like running—reaps benefits almost immediately. So what are you waiting for? Weight Training For Dummies has everything you need to get started. Provides examples and directions for powerful 20-minute weight training routines for the time challenged Features advice to help you choose a weight training system that you enjoy and that fits into your lifestyle Includes new coverage devoted to warm-ups and the hottest and most beneficial stretches Introduces using weight training to address specific health or orthopedic conditions Whether you're already in the gym several times a week or are just starting out with a fitness routine, Weight Training For Dummies shows you how to use free weights or weight machines to get results—fast. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Ultimate Plank Fitness Jennifer DeCurtins, 2015-04 A safe, challenging, and effective method of core conditioning, planking is one of the best ways to get fit and toned. Variations of planks are used across many fitness domains including traditional group exercise, personal training, home workouts, yoga, pilates, barre, CrossFit and plenty more! In no time, planks will craft: -Abs -Shoulders -Pectorals -Biceps -Triceps -Glutes -Quads -Hamstrings Not to mention the fact that planking increases heart rate, offering calorie-busting cardio exercise, and creating healthy muscle tone. Ultimate Plank Fitness features 100 different variations of planks that can be used to customize your workout. Easily increase the difficulty of your core strengthening exercises by adding stability balls, gliders, and weights. Each exercise includes a step-by-step photo demonstration, points of performance, where to engage, along with common faults to detect ways to improve your fitness. Finally, CrossFit coach, personal trainer, and fitness instructor, Jennifer DeCurtins provides you with ten 5-minute workouts incorporating several planks that you can use to target trouble areas and build strength. With countless variations of the exercise, ranging from traditional planks to side plank variations and planks using external weights or unstable surfaces, your entire workout can be programmed around the plank! Work your way to a healthy core with Ultimate Plank Fitness. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Ebony , 2005-10 EBONY is the flagship magazine of Johnson Publishing. Founded in 1945 by John H. Johnson, it still maintains the highest global circulation of any African American-focused magazine. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Total Core Strength on the Ball Cherry Baker, 2004 Sit on a wobbly inflated rubber ball and notice how muscles automatically respond to the challenge of staying upright. Add a series of muscle-toning exercises and it becomes clear why stability-ball training is so effective. The constant repositioning and balancing of the body improves core strength and balance while specific exercises tone various muscle groups. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Swiss Ball for Total Fitness James Milligan, 2005 Because it's so effective and easy to use even at home, the Swiss ball has become an essential part of a total fitness regime--especially in tandem with free weights and a medicine ball. These exercises--from beginner to advanced--will help you utilize its full potential for building core strength and more, as they work the muscles in the midsection, chest, back, shoulders, arms, and legs. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Body Trainer for Men Ray Klerck, 2013-12-02 Working out but not getting results? If you’re seeking improved fitness and muscle tone or a slimmer, more ripped physique, Body Trainer for Men is your ticket to an ideal physique. Fitness expert and writer Ray Klerck, one of the world’s most sought-after personal trainers, has produced a comprehensive fitness guide specifically tailored to the unique needs and goals of men. In this book, you will find workout programmes that can be performed at home or in the park as well as in the gym, making this resource completely accessible and convenient. Body Trainer for Men offers solutions to the most common issues men face inside and outside the gym. So if you are stressed or overweight and want to muscle up in a short time, now you have the means to fix these problems without spending for a personal trainer. The methods and training plans are all linked, so rather than being forced into a particular goal, you can make desired improvements concurrently. Whatever your present needs or future goals may be, you’ll find the advice in this guide 100 per cent effective. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Two Minute Moves Lizzy Williamson, 2017-09-26 We all know that we should be moving more, but sometimes it can feel impossible to find the time or motivation to even get started. This book makes that first step easy.Lizzy Williamson has spent over a decade helping women to get their bodies, energy and confidence back. With more than 50 fun and simple exercises, you'll learn how to make working out a part of your every day, whether you're on the couch watching TV, at the kitchen bench waiting for the kettle to boil, at the playground with the kids or just clinging to a bottle of wine (yes, a bottle of wine can make you fitter!).Backed up with down-to-earth advice and the inspiring true story of how Lizzy found herself through movement, TWO-MINUTE MOVES is the guide to stopping the excuses and reaping the benefits of a happier, healthier more energised life. It starts with two minutes. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: 7 Weeks to 300 Sit-Ups Brett Stewart, 2012-04-03 Build strength and sculpt your abs with this comprehensive guide to the sit-up. Follow the seven-week program in this book and you’ll massively increase the strength and muscle tone of your core, back and obliques to such an extreme that you’ll be able to do 300 consecutive sit-ups. Offering field-tested, day-by-day plans and more than thirty core-shredding exercises, this book has something for everyone: from beginners embarking on a new workout regimen to athletes looking to expand strength-training options. Packed with clear charts and helpful photos, 7 Weeks to 300 Sit-Ups tells you everything you need to know about the ultimate exercise for your core and includes: • Instructions on how to do a perfect sit-up • Easy-to-follow progressive training programs • Added challenges for extreme strengthening |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: The 12-Minute Athlete Krista Stryker, 2020-03-31 Unlock your athletic potential and get into the best shape of your life with Krista Stryker’s HIIT and bodyweight workouts—all of which can be done in just minutes a day! If you’ve ever thought you couldn’t get results without spending hours in the gym, that you’d never be able to do a pull-up, or that it’s too late to get in your best shape ever, The 12-Minute Athlete will change your mind, your body, and your life. Get serious results with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts that can be done in just minutes a day. Give up the excuses and learn to use your own bodyweight and a few basic pieces of portable equipment for short, incredibly effective workouts. Reset your mindset, bust through mental blocks, and set meaningful goals you’ll actually accomplish. You can finally ditch the dieting and enjoy food as fuel with simple eating guidelines to the 80/20 rule. In The 12-Minute Athlete you’ll also find: –A guide to basic calisthenics and bodyweight exercises for any fitness level –Progressive exercises to achieve seemingly “impossible” feats like pistol squats, one-arm push-ups, pull-ups, and handstands –More than a dozen simple and healthy recipes that will fuel your workouts –Two 8-week workout plans for getting fitter, faster, and stronger –Bonus Tabata workouts –And so much more! The 12-Minute Athlete is for men and women, ex-athletes and new athletes, experienced athletes and “non-athletes”—for anyone who has a body and wants to get stronger and start living their healthiest life. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Ebony , 2005-10 EBONY is the flagship magazine of Johnson Publishing. Founded in 1945 by John H. Johnson, it still maintains the highest global circulation of any African American-focused magazine. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Strength Training Exercises for Women Joan Pagano, 2014-01-16 Packed with more than 200 visual step-by-step exercises designed to burn calories, strengthen the core, and tone the body, Strength Training for Women is a must-have for core-conscious women who want to target key areas of their body and maintain all-round strength and fitness. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Pilates on the Ball Colleen Craig, 2001-09 Fitness expert Craig presents a unique and exciting synthesis of two highly acclaimed fitness techniques: Pilates Method and the Swiss exercise ball. 200 photos. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: 101 Workouts for Women Muscle & Fitness Hers, 2008 Muscle & Fitness Hers magazine has provided a program of rapid-fire core workouts for those seeking to get moving on a weight-training fitness program or for those who wish to expand, freshen-up, and enhance their workout regimen. There are 101 photo-illustrated workouts that allow enthusiasts the opportunity to glance at the photo during a workout to check their faithful following of the routine. Whether a novice or an experienced weight trainer, the chapters offer different programs for levels of progress as well as a guide to designing personalized workout systems. Moreover, fitness and well-being are considered with a presentation on cardio primer and a feature on basic fitness nutrition as well. 101 Workouts For Women provides a complete one-stop get-fit package for fitness enthusiasts. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: ACFT Army Combat Fitness Test For Dummies Angie Papple Johnston, 2021-01-20 The best standalone resource for the Army Combat Fitness Test As the Army prepares to shift to the new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) from the Army Physical Fitness Test, hundreds of thousands of new and current servicemembers will have to pass a more rigorous and demanding set of physical events to prove they have what it takes to meet the physical demands of an army job. Utilizing the accessible and simple approach that has made the For Dummies series famous the world over, ACFT For Dummies is packed with everything you need to train for and ultimately crush the ACFT. Topics include: An overview of the test, including how it fits into your army role How the test is administered (location, equipment, etc.) Instructions on how to perform each of the six events How the ACFT is scored Training for the ACFT on your own time The importance of recovery, including essential stretches How to build your own workout routine Videos for each of the six events with tips for how to train for them The ACFT For Dummies prepares readers to tackle the new, tougher Army fitness test with practical examples and concrete strategies that will push each servicemember to new heights. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training , 2008 Developed by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), this book is designed to help people prepare for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Certification exam or learn the basic principles of personal training using NASM's Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model. The OPT model presents NASM's protocols for building stabilization, strength, and power. More than 600 full-color illustrations and photographs demonstrate concepts and techniques. Exercise color coding maps each exercise movement to a specific phase on the OPT model. Exercise boxes demonstrate core exercises and detail the necessary preparation and movement. Other features include research notes, memory joggers, safety tips, and review questions. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Cycling Anatomy Shannon Sovndal, 2020 From steep inclines to slick terrains, Cycling Anatomy, Second Edition, will ensure you are prepared for every challenge that comes your way. Using the same methods that elite cyclists use, you can employ this well-rounded collection of 89 strength and conditioning exercises to maximize cycling power, speed, and endurance to improve your cycling performance. Each exercise includes clear step-by-step descriptions and full-color anatomical illustrations that highlight the primary muscle being used. You'll find dozens of variations that use a wide range of training equipment so you can modify exercises to target specific areas, and minimize common cycling injuries. The Cycling Focus section of each exercise includes illustrations of the active muscles involved in cornering, climbing, descending, and sprinting to show you how the exercises are fundamentally linked to delivering maximum power to the pedals. Using tried-and-true strength training principles for all parts of the body, Cycling Anatomy will help you develop a training plan based on your individual needs and goals. Whether you're training for an upcoming century ride or just want to top that killer hill with strength to spare, Cycling Anatomy will help you reach top performance, avoid injury, and ensure you get the most out of every ride. CE exam available For certified professionals, a companion continuing education exam can be completed after reading this book. Cycling Anatomy, Second Edition Online CE Exam, may be purchased separately or as part of the Cycling Anatomy, Second Edition With CE Exam, package that includes both the book and the exam. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: The All-Day Energy Diet Yuri Elkaim, 2014-09-23 You deserve to look and feel amazing—discover how with this holistic diet program for improving your health, vitality, productivity and becoming the best version of yourself. “If you want to lose weight and boost your energy, try this diet.” —Woman Magazine At last, you can say good-bye to those sluggish mornings and dragging, dreary workdays. No longer will you be sidelined, lying on the couch at night in utter fatigue. Finally, you can get the knowledge and tools you need to make things better and enjoy the health and body you deserve. Inside, you will discover: • 7 energy commandments you’ll never find in a medical book • 3 everyday, energy-robbing foods • A 30-second at-home eye exam that reveals your “stress score” and 9 ways to ease stress • The #1 reason most people are sick, overweight, and tired—and how to fix it • A 9-question test that unveils whether you’re properly digesting your food • The most important (and surprising) food group for boosting energy and health • The biggest mistake people make when juicing and how to do it right • The energy reset that will bring you back to life in less than a week • And much more! Follow The All-Day Energy Diet to the letter, or choose your favorite energy pick-me-ups—either way, you’ll look and feel great in just 7 days’ time. Yuri knows, because he has experienced it in his own life and seen it happen with thousands of clients. It doesn’t matter whether you’re the unhealthiest, most lethargic person in the world or a super-healthy fitness buff. If you’re a human from planet Earth, this can work for you, too! |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Power Yoga for Athletes Sean Vigue, 2015-06-15 Perfect for those who want a total body and mind workout. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Return to Life Through Contrology Joseph H. Pilates, William John Miller, 2021-04-02 This seminal work, written by the creator of the Pilates method himself, guides you through a series of precisely designed exercises that strengthen the body, enhance flexibility, and promote overall well-being. With detailed instructions and accompanying photographs, Joseph Pilates demonstrates how his innovative approach to fitness can help you achieve a renewed sense of vitality, improve your posture, and gain mastery over your physical and mental health. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this timeless classic is an essential resource for anyone seeking to unlock their body's full potential and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Fundamental Orthopedic Management for the Physical Therapist Assistant - E-Book Robert C. Manske, 2021-07-15 - NEW! Updated content and references are added throughout the book to reflect changes in practice patterns. - NEW! Expanded full-color illustrations add clarity to anatomy and procedural drawings and make it easier to learn important concepts - NEW! Updated chapter summaries highlight essential, need-to-know information. - NEW! Updated educator and student resources on the Evolve website provide tools to make teaching and learning easier. |
| ab exercises on yoga ball: Truth about Six Pack Abs Michael. D. Geary, 2006 |
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