Stability Ball Strength Workout
I love using the stability ball in my training and classes. It's a great piece of equipment to use because it's fun, it's extremely versatile, it works multiple muscle systems at once and it's an amazing tool for balance and core strength. I programmed this workout for one of my classes to really focus on core strength, balance and unilateral training. It's so important to confuse our muscles, especially if you're a nine to fiver who is confined to sitting at a desk all day. Balance is important!
Stability Ball Strength Workout:
Complete 3 rounds of each circuit. Rest for 1-2 minutes between each circuit. I kept the reps mostly in the 12-15 range to work on muscle endurance and keep everyone's heart rates high.
Circuit 1:
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIN3q5Zp5o4[/embed]
12x: (each side) curtsey lunges with a single arm press
12x: front to lateral shoulder raise *Be sure to take the momentum out here and focus on pulling with your shoulders. If you feel your body starting to rock or swing, lower the weight and focus on form.
8x: 2 plank rows and 2 plank jacks *This is one rep! You will complete 32 reps all together.
Circuit 2:
[embed]http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7N_3_ZCeGQ[/embed]
12x: decline stability ball push-ups with a knee tuck * You can always modify here with a regular push-up on the ground or on your knees.
12x: (each side) triceps kickbacks * Again, focus on pulling up and squeezing with the back of your arm and taking out all of the momentum.
10x: 2 toe taps and 2 shoulder taps on the stability ball * Modify this by taking it to the floor and doing toe taps out to the side or just sticking to the shoulder taps.
Circuit 3:
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FN4Zv7MPuU[/embed]
12x: (each side) single leg deadlift and upright row
12x: stability ball hip bridges * Go SLOW on these! You'll feel it.
24x: plyo lunge with a stability ball twist * Twist the ball to the side of the front leg. Can always modify by taking the twist out or doing body weight reverse lunges.
Circuit 4:
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vc9kpFuc3xM[/embed]
12x: sumo squat hold with an overhead side bend * Get low in the squat and focus on keeping your core tight and your pelvis tucked in (aka try to keep a nice flat back without sticking your bum out - think ballerina!)
12x: ball roll out with 2 knee taps * Can modify this by taking the knee tap out and holding a plank on the ball for 30 seconds.
12x: (each side) dead bugs * Hold the ball in between your RIGHT knee and LEFT hand. Bring your left leg and right hand to meet the ball. Continue this for 12 reps and then switch sides. This one doesn't look like much but trust me, you'll feel it if you keep your core engaged the whole time!
12x: ball passes
Enjoy the workout!!
XO - Rach
Do you like training with a stability ball?
Do you feel like your off balance sometimes?
Is one side more balanced than the other?