Swiss Ball

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Swiss ball was developed in Switzerland in 1965 by a group of physical therapists. Swiss ball is a conservative treatment option for back pain sufferers and is designed to help prevent further episodes of low back pain.

Swiss ball exercises offer a simple and versatile way to start moving again. It helps strengthen and develop the core body muscles that help to stabilize the spine. An element of instability is introduced to the exercises so that the muscles used to keep in balance on the Swiss ball become stronger and the body responds naturally and automatically to keep balanced on the Swiss ball. Swiss ball exercises compliment a general fitness regimen, rehabilitation, strength or weight training, and exercises for pregnant women.

Since the 1980s, the therapeutic use of "Swiss" balls has increased. In 1991, the ball replaced chairs in schools for thousands of children in Europe due to increased education and information on the postural benefits of "active sitting" and back injury prevention- improved concentration, penmanship, understanding of subject matter and organization skills.

In the U.S., testing of the effectiveness of the ball for patients with Attention Deficit Disorder, balance disorders, hypotonicity, arthritis and osteoporosis is being done. Therapy clinics are using the ball for rehabilitation of orthopedic, sports medicine, chronic pain and cardiac patients. The possibilities for applying the ball are growing as we continue to discover its benefits.

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A complete range of ball sizes are available for participants. A one-hour classes consist of instruction on general safety, posture, bouncing, alignment, balance instructions and vigorous warm-ups, moving arms and legs (10 - 15 minutes). One half-hour or more of strengthening exercises emphasizing core control in a variety of positions using the ball. And gravity-assisted stretching consisting of lying over the ball, flexibility and mobility exercises, and relaxation positions (10 - 15 minutes).

Swiss Ball - Beginner

(Ages14+) Introduction to use of Swiss Ball as a non-impact fitness tool. Focus on strength, flexibility, balance, posture, coordination. Instructor is a licensed physical therapist.

Swiss Ball - Continuing

(Ages 14+) Review and continue practice of Swiss Ball exercises for strength, flexibility, balance, posture, coordination. Instructor is a licensed physical therapist. Pre-requisite: One previous session with this instructor or instructor's permission.

Swiss Ball - Beginning/Continuing Combined

(Ages 14+) Introduction, review and continuation of Swiss Ball exercises which strengthen your core, improve flexibility and balance, and focus on posture and coordination. Includes some light, non-impact aerobic activity. Instructor is a licensed physical therapist and birth assistant who also specializes in pregnancy-related injuries.

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Swiss Ball instructor profiles

Complete listing of Swiss Ball classes

Benefits of Swiss Ball

• For all ages, fitness levels; can be made as easy or as difficult as desired.
• Low-impact aerobic workout, increasing cardiovascular fitness.
• Safe, effective gravity-assisted stretching; increases flexibility comfortably.
• Targets “core” muscles; most effective way to strengthen them.
• Automatic muscle balancing, alignment, symmetry; weaker muscles must play their role or balance is lost.
• Increases circulation and nutrition to body structures and internal organs.
• Effective cross-training, enhances other sports, conditions core to meet demands of sports and activities of everyday life.
• Provides functional, dynamic, 3-dimensional movements; is more like normal human demands on body than with static equipment .

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Last Updated on Monday, 26 October 2009 10:26