Beach ball - or rut buster?

Hello workout friends! This week we're showcasing a piece of equipment that you've probably seen before and likely used but you may not realize how versatile it is.

"It looks like fun! It looks like a big beach ball!" It looks harmless but personal trainer Angie Gallagher says a stability ball is one of the best ways to get in shape. "It was actually first developed for people with neurological disorders,” says Angie, “it just been in the past few years that it's gained popularity in the fitness industry."

You might be surprised by the variety of exercises you can do on the ball. You’ve probably seen people doing push ups and traditional crunches but you can also try killer ab moves like roll-ins and pikes. Thanks to the unstable surface, even familiar moves like triceps dips take on a different feel. “Your entire body has to engage so that you don’t fall over,” Angie explains, “everything you do on the ball is great for your core!” Speaking of which, even a simple side plank gets a makeover. We do everything from squats and outer thigh exercises to cardio and preacher curls and by the time we're done Angie's shown us that you can do it all with the ball.

It’s easy to see (and feel) that this tool is a great way to kick your routine up a notch. “There really is a huge variety and it’s very effective, “Angie says with a grin, “it’s really hard!!!”

You can find stability balls at fitness stores and places like Target and Wal-Mart or order online at www.resistaball.com. Prices start at around twenty dollars.

And if you want to get in touch with Angie, drop her an email: fitnesswithangie@gmail.com

Have a healthy week!
EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com