Why a Medicine Ball?
Maybe you remember tossing around a heavy medicine ball in gym class (hey, I'm old) and hating it. Medicine balls have come a long way and now come in a variety of weights and textures. Using a medicine ball adds a whole new dimension to your training since it takes you through all planes of motions (unlike traditional weight training). This type of training translates well into how we really move out in the real world.
Like a stability ball, using a medicine ball requires a lot of work from your abs and back. Most movement begins at the core and without strong muscles, you risk injury as well as looking silly in the gym. Using a medicine ball can help you train those trunk muscles the way they work during daily activities, not just at the gym.
What to do with a Medicine Ball
Sometimes you get a piece of fitness equipment and realize you have no idea how to get started or, even more confusing, how to integrate it into what you're already doing.
The great thing about medicine ball training is that it can be aerobic/anaerobic (tossing the ball back and forth) or you can use it as a strength training tool (as in medicine ball crunches). How you use it is up to you. To get you started, try these Abs, Hips and Thigh Exercises combining a stability ball with the medicine ball.
Videos and other Resources
- Mindy Mylrea's website offers a variety of medicine ball videos including 'Awesome Strength' and 'Strength Express.'
- Video Fitness offers a list of ball videos complete with reviews.
- Bodytrends offers both stability balls and medicine balls
- This Core Strength workout shows advanced exercises on a stability ball.
- Try this Strength Training Workout on the Ball for added challenge.
