The Original Swiss Ball
What is a Swiss Ball?
Swiss balls are large, heavy-duty inflatable balls with a diameter of 45 to 75 cm (18 to 30 inches). The Swiss ball is also known by a number of different names, including exercise ball, gym ball, Pilate's ball, sports ball, fit or fitness ball, stability ball, therapy ball, yoga ball, balance ball, body ball, or birth ball.
Swiss balls offer you a fun, safe and highly effective way to exercise. They will last for a very long time and are inexpensive compared to other exercise equipment.
How do I recognize an Original Swiss Ball?
Many companies claim to sell a Swiss ball but only the Original Swiss Ball has the URL swissball.com printed around the valve. Original Swiss Balls are available at www.theragear.com or specialty fitness stores.
Where did they come from?
The Swiss ball was used as early as the 1960s. It originally was used by physical therapists and chiropractors in Switzerland to assist with rehabilitation and became known as the Swiss Ball.
Through seminars and classes the Swiss Ball was introduced into the USA in the early 1980’s. But, the Swiss Ball is far more versatile and valuable than simply for re-hab use. In the late 1980’s coaches, athletic trainers and personal trainers realized the effectiveness of the Swiss Ball in developing balance and core strength. Since then they are reported as being the most effective method for core conditioning.
Why should I use a Swiss ball?
Swiss balls are one of today's top fitness tools - and for good reason! Using a Swiss ball will improve the strength of the abs and the lower back. Since the Swiss ball is unstable you have to constantly adjust your balance, which in turn will improve your balance, proprioception and flexibility. As an extra challenge you can use the exercise ball as a bench using free-weights to target those hard to reach stabilizer muscles.
Recommended Uses
- Aerobic & Cardio
- Rehab & Core Stability
- Strength & Toning
- Sitting: Office & Home
- Pre & Post Natal Care & Birthing
- Stretching & Yoga
- Children
- Seniors
- Strength Training & Body Building *
- Abs, Back & Buttocks