The benefits of a fitness ball
- Posted on
- Posted in Fitness balls, Yoga & Pilates
Not having a ball while working out? In the world of fitness balls are an important part of the accessories that help you become stronger, healthier and fitter. Examples are the gym ball, wall ball, slam ball, and medicine ball. All these types of balls have varying purposes. We will list them with an explanation for you, so that you can determine which ball you must have.
Gymball
The 'Gym ball', also known as a 'practice ball', is an inflatable ball that looks a bit like a skippy ball and has its origins in physiotherapy. Gymbal workouts mainly focus on balance and coordination, as well as to increase your trunk stability.By practicing with the gym ball you train several muscles at the same time, including those of your back, abdomen, legs and upper body. Well-known exercises are lifting weights while sitting or the 'ball crunch', with which you train the abdominal muscles, among other things.
Wall ball
A wall ball is a soft, functional fitness ball made of artificial leather, filled with wool and sand. Fitness balls can withstand intensive use thanks to the thickness of the leather and the seams that are stitched for extra strength. The ball is therefore stronger than, for example, a medicine ball, which is less suitable for slamming.With a wall ball you can train your whole body. You can use it in different ways. The most well-known exercise is – as the name suggests – bouncing against the wall and catching the ball again. Throwing strengthens the muscles in your hips and your core. By throwing the ball over your head you train the oblique abdominal muscles and triceps, with throwing to the side you train the chest and throwing backwards is good for your back muscles. Wall balls are available in different weights, such as 4, 6, 8 and even 10 kilos.
Slam ball
A slam ball is a rubber ball with iron sand filling. Contrary to what you might think with a rubber ball, it does not bounce, but falls flat on the ground. It doesn't roll away and you don't have to run after it all the time. That is why it is also called the D-ball or dead ball. You use it to throw the ball on the ground (slamming).Slamming is an ideal outlet for excess energy. Moreover, with this explosive movement you train your entire body, and especially your core, shoulders, back, triceps and calves. Slam balls are available in different weights. Tunturi has slam balls weighing up to 20 kilos.
Medicine ball
A medicine ball is heavy and compact. The ball has a special anti-slip surface structure so that it fits well in the hand and it does not slip out of your hand easily. You mainly use it for training stability, strength, coordination and balance. It is also often used for rehabilitation and physiotherapy.There are special exercises that you can do with a medicine ball, but you can also use it to intensify existing exercises by adding extra weight. With a medicine ball you train the abdominal, arm and back muscles. Medicine balls are available in different weights. Tunturi has medicine balls weighing up to 5 kilos.
