It’s time to get on the ball. In SilverSneakers classes, part of the routine involves the use of a medium sized inflatable ball. Certainly bigger and softer than a soft ball, but considerably smaller than a volley ball, there are ENDLESS exercises we do with it. Though we also incorporate weights and elastic tubing, there is something about that ball that I have always loved best! Light, inexpensive and very safe, we can work just about any muscle in the body with that ball.
Yesterday I previewed a new exercise video that I purchased that I will be blogging about more in the near future. It comes with a ball and a great little pump to inflate, which I ended up using to re-inflate my 2 body rolling balls, which I thought were both punctured. (Turns out my old pump wasn’t working!) This has inspired me to pump up my stability ball as well. I ended up doing a good amount of the new video, but didn’t do enough of the hour to make a judgement yet. I always believe in trying things 3 times before forming an opinion, especially when it comes to workout routines. My guess is it’s NO P90X but I am still going to enjoy it and learn a lot from it, as well.
I have a thing for basketball players arms and shoulders. I am convinced that all that “dribble, dribble, shooting” gives them those buff, yet well defined upper body lines. As it’s also great cardiovascular work, incorporating lots of plyometrics, I often encourage people to add some “hoop shooting” into their routines, if possible. Baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, even golf…they all involve a ball.
Indoors or out, a ball is a fantastic “tool” for exercise and play! We don’t need fancy, expensive gym equipment to get fit. We need a little imagination and desire. Pick up an old favorite like a jump rope, hoola-hoop or ball, and get moving! If you reside in the US, summer is just around the corner (if you reside here in Florida, summer is already in full-swing). Revisit your childhood toys (and mind) and before you know it, you’ll be sporting a more youthful you, inside and out.
My friends and I play some kind (football, softball, baseball, basketball) of ball every Saturday morning. It’s what we work all week for and why we stay in shape. Nobody wants to be the slow or fat guy on the field. Today its football in the park.