Small balls can be an invaluable prop in your mat classes.
They have many more uses than simply being squeezed between the knees and ankles for increased inner thigh work.
With more creative experimentation the small ball can be placed under the sacrum or ribs for support and greater range of movement and under knees and hands for increased instability and challenge.
Beginners and more advanced clients can enjoy the small ball in their routine as it can support the body in certain exercises and safely increase the range of movement.
More importantly altering your exercises to include the small ball can activate underused muscles so when you return to to traditional exercises you will be working more deeply and effectively than before.
Top 5 reasons to use a small overball:
- To intensify an exercise.
- To make an exercise easier to execute.
- To offer more support for an exercise.
- To increase the range of motion for an exercise.
- To introduce an element of proprioception.
Taken from an article by Katherine and Kimberly Corp – Pilates Style
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Small balls are a great way to add fun and interest to the normal repertoire and class members love the added challenge and feedback. There are some fantastic ideas out there for using the balls, so let’s all get out thinking caps on and experiment! When you get that “I really like that!” moment, come back and post it on our blog!