weight training with stability ball rocks!

[FigureSkater]

Has anyone ever tried weight training using a stability ball (db press or flyes using the ball instead of a bench, sitting on it and doing shoulder press, etc)? I used it for my chest/shoulders/tricep workout today. I had never done so before, and I must say it ROCKS. I couldn't lift as heavy, but got just as good a workout (if not better) because of the increased focus on core stability and balance. I probably looked like a total fool chasing the ball as it rolled away between sets, and at one point I had a gang of bench-press-only-undertrained-leg-teenage-thugs giving me the "what is that chick doing?" look, but it was a GREAT way to vary things up. If you've never done this before and are looking for some variety, seriously try this.

 

[wilson6]

Yes it is good for stability work, BUT you don't get the same mechanical loading because you have to reduce the weight. Thus, less muscle mass and strength.

Mix it up. Stability work only will not maximize strength, power or muscle mass.

W6

 

[superqt4u2nv]

Yes it is good for stability work, BUT you don't get the same mechanical loading because you have to reduce the weight. Thus, less muscle mass and strength.

Mix it up. Stability work only will not maximize strength, power or muscle mass.

W6

Amen

 

[FigureSkater]

Yes it is good for stability work, BUT you don't get the same mechanical loading because you have to reduce the weight. Thus, less muscle mass and strength.

Mix it up. Stability work only will not maximize strength, power or muscle mass.

W6

But it's good to add some variety to what you're doing so you don't get stuck in a rut (I'm de-rutting myself at the moment), and you shouldn't lift heavy every single workout. I'm not talking doing this every time you hit the gym, but throwing it in once every few weeks or so.

Besides, I don't need/want to add any muscle mass, I'm already where I want to be in that respect and just lifting to maintain what I've got while cutting (maybe add a little core strength), so in this case it's good.

 

[Daisy_Girl]

But it's good to add some variety to what you're doing so you don't get stuck in a rut (I'm de-rutting myself at the moment), and you shouldn't lift heavy every single workout. I'm not talking doing this every time you hit the gym, but throwing it in once every few weeks or so.

Besides, I don't need/want to add any muscle mass, I'm already where I want to be in that respect and just lifting to maintain what I've got while cutting (maybe add a little core strength), so in this case it's good.

I totally agree on trying new things and trying to de-rut yourself. And it is HARD.... when I do it, my stablizing muscles (all over my body) start shaking. That's my big clue that I need more stability work in my routine.... SOunds like you and I have a lot of similar goals.

Basically, one has to assess YOUR PERSONAL goals, and adjust your workouts to suit those goals. Not everything works for everybody. But there is a place for almost everything in a routine.

 

[Miss24k]

Hi everyone,

I'm new to the site, and would like to say that I also include the stability ball in my workouts . It's great. I use the ball for 1 exercise in my bicep, tricep, and chest workouts.

 

[MissJanet79]

I agree w/ you all! I love anything that improves stability & works the core. The ball & pilates is a great way to do this.

 

[lucidblue]

I totally agree on trying new things and trying to de-rut yourself. And it is HARD.... when I do it, my stablizing muscles (all over my body) start shaking. That's my big clue that I need more stability work in my routine.... SOunds like you and I have a lot of similar goals.

Basically, one has to assess YOUR PERSONAL goals, and adjust your workouts to suit those goals. Not everything works for everybody. But there is a place for almost everything in a routine.

I've been going to physical therapy for a couple of back problems and they have me doing a lot of core stability work with the ball. Wow, it's hard! I think I know where my weaknesses were now and how I hurt my back squatting. I definitely have to work on core exercises and stability. Hopefully, I can work on some of that during recovery after my shoulder surgery and be ready to train hard as soon as possible.

 

[Victoria1968]

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