Swiss Ball

jph100

Hi

how good is the swiss ball? or is it just a different way of doing various exercises that can be easily done without the ball?

thanks

Colm_OReilly

Swiss balls are by and large a fad, for "core" and "stability" training. I put these words in italics because swiss balls don't really work either, and are used as industry buzz words.

In order for strength/stamina adaptations to occur, you can't go too light of your maximal potential (one rep max if that means anything to you - how much you can lift essentially). Swiss balls introduce such a level of instability as to require weights that are pitifully light. Heavier weights generally lead to people falling off.

If you really want to work your core do any compound lift, and the core is involved in keeping your midline stabile (i.e. your spine in normal anatomical position). Do a search for videos of Turkish Get Ups and Overhead squats and see how much they work you, even with low weights.

Roper

We use swiss balls and I believe they have their place in a good programme. But much like any piece of equipment, they are far from a be all and end all.

We use them for variety when doing stomach work, push ups and work with light weight loads. They're also a fun tool to have around the gym and often I'll put them in a circuit just to watch people fall off them (this happens often!) Plus the kids who train with me all have races to get onto the mats to make sure they can secure a swiss ball to play around on!

As for their benefits, certain stomach exercises are made far more difficult by using them, incline push ups are far more difficult on the ball and I often find a greater stress on my obliques when doing that particular exercise. Like anything, they have their place depending on your goals.

Name Changed

I have two Swiss balls but no plug to keep the air in.

Has anyone any idea as to where I can get a plug for them?

d'Oracle

My missus sits on hers when she is studying.
Very hard to slouch on a ball without falling over.

radia

Name Changed wrote: »

I have two Swiss balls but no plug to keep the air in.

Has anyone any idea as to where I can get a plug for them?

Maybe whittle one out of a cork?

Transform

most new ones come with two so ask around anyone that might have a new one or ask in the physio supply shops

Name Changed

Transform wrote: »

most new ones come with two so ask around anyone that might have a new one or ask in the physio supply shops

Will do. Cheers.

EileenG

I like them. Nice cheap easy-to-use gadget which do what they say they will.