Pilates Ball

A Pilates Ball is an exercise ball that is used to go through the Pilates Poses. Pilates ball exercises are Pilates performed on an exercise ball. Pilates usually takes place on the floor on a mat. When you add an exercise ball to the mix you add additional challenge to the Pilates. You can increase your balance using a Pilates ball and this will also increase a little stability challenge for the abs. A Pilates ball is not a modified exercise ball, but not exactly a traditional exercise ball the Pilates ball is a bit firmer and a bit lower than a traditional exercise ball. The ball should be firm yet flexible so that the user does not sink into the ball but is forced to use balance to sit upon the ball.

Pilates Ball Exercises

Pilates ball exercises range from the very easy to the very difficult. A good beginners exercise using the Pilates ball is the knee bends.  The object is to sit on the Pilates  ball with knees bent and lifts each leg individual of the other. This promotes individual movement of the hips, tightens the abs and lower back. Pilates ball exercises should be done on a ball that is not to squishy, this defeats the purpose of using the ball during Pilates.

Draw Backs of Using a Pilates Ball

Some folks oppose the use of a Pilates ball during their Pilates workout. The use of the Pilates ball is seen as altering the Pilates exercises and compromising the original intention of Pilates. These Pilates fundamentalist feel that the Pilates ball veers too far off the course of the Pilates exercises.

Benefits of Using a Pilates Ball

The benefits of using a Pilates ball is an increase in the Pilates workout results. The use of a Pilates ball increases the stretching of the muscles, increases balance and posture. Over time using a Pilates ball will improve overall balance and body symmetry.

Buying a Pilates Ball

A Pilates ball is relatively cheap piece of equipment for your fitness routine – for around twenty bucks you can purchase the best Pilates ball or you can buy one as part of a set of Pilates exercise equipment. A Pilates ball can be found any place that exercise equipment is sold and in most sporting goods stores.

A Pilates ball can be a fun addition to any workout and can improve results.