Surf Tips

Swiss Balls and why use them?

Anyone who has not heard of a Swiss ball, must surely be from mars. One of the most versatile pieces of equipment used today by fitness, rehab and conditioning professionals (also known as "Stability balls”, "Exercise Balls", “Fitness balls”, "Physio Balls”, "Balance Balls", etc.).Such their popularity and versatility, that they extended way beyond the gym and therapy rooms and into many homes across the western world.

Back in the 60's the Swiss Ball (SB) was used so successfully as a rehabilitation tool by Physio's etc, that their effectiveness in developing balance and core strength & stability resulted in athletic trainers, coaches, personal trainers and physical education teachers integrating them into their programs, especially in the world of athletic and functional conditioning. Now we all want to know how to use them.

This is why you will see the SB used in many exercises prescribed. Not only can they be performed at home as well as the gym (so you really have no excuses!!) but will offer a versatile, fun and very effective addition to your workout program. Exercise life surfing, should be fun as well as functional.

The SB is an unrivalled tool for recruiting and developing your core muscles and can help you build the stabilizer muscles in your body that may not otherwise be used and therefore providing trunk stabilization. This is not only essential to surfing but any sport. The SB will aid strength, balance, injury prevention, co-ordination, pro-prioception and posture.

They are ideal accessories for a range of stretching, toning, weight training, core stability and balance exercises, as well as simply sitting on it to promote better posture, balance and comfort and as a great tool for rehabilitation and back care.

How to sit on your balls...!! Sit on the ball Knees and hips at 90 degrees. Feet hip width apart, facing forward in line with knees Hips must NOT drop below the knees. They must always be in line with knees or slightly above Find neutral pelvis. Forward / backward pelvic tilt on ball and find centre Draw in belly button towards the spine whilst still breathing diaphragmatically Head in line with spine. Ears in line with shoulders and hips

Always check your balls first...!! You won't want a deflating workout experience ...
Ball safety

• Always buy an anti-burst ball
• Check the ball for any flaws and surrounding area for any objects (especially small objects like safety pins)
• Make sure you are not on a slippery surface. Use a mat if necessary
• Always warm up correctly and perform the first set at a reduced intensity if necessary
  
  

If you want a programme or training to improve your Surf Fitness then email us at info@surf-fit.co.uk
More details on Personal Fitness Training at www.miss-fit.co.uk

Before performing any exercise please read » this «