Stable vs unstable surfaces

[Spectrum_]

We all know there are the isolation movements, andthose working on several muscle groups at once. Like for example youcan do pushups on a hard surface, or on something unstable, like aball. What approach would be the most functional and healthieroverall?

 

[Lev Butlerov]

In my opinion, it is best to do a bit of everything, because you would be getting the best of each training approach. Each approach will have its own advantages and disadvantages. I like those unstable, as you call them, exercises, because them employ lots of small muscle groups that are meant for stabilization, so they will condition you much more in a functional way. But the usual approach to training has the benefit of better and safer muscle growth. So in the end of the day it will mostly depend on what you want to achieve.

 

[muskate]

When you do exercises on unstable surfaces, it trains your stabilizer muscles and core muscles greater then when you do them on stable surfaces.

Now at the same time - you won't be able to use as much weight when training on unstable surfaces so I agree with @lev butlerov
It's best to do both. That way you can train with max weights and also train your stabilizer and core muscles.

 

[MasonicBodybuilder]

I am not a big fan of doing exercises on balls and such. Just stick to what has always worked. I just feel like I would slip and hurt something on a ball.

 

[stevesmi]

balance and stretching are important too

just do it right though