Put some bounce into your life with a Swiss ball! It appears that the Swiss ball was actually invented in Switzerland by a Swiss doctor nearly 100 years ago but it is only in more recent times that this ‘posture corrector’ has become popular as a training tool for many sports people and fitness fans. Five good reasons for us all to do the Swiss ball bounce: 1. Good posture When we slouch we’re compressing all the structures in our lower back and we are not activating our anti-gravity muscles. These are the muscles between our lower ribs and the top of our pelvic bones and are used to support our spine and hold in our abdominal contents. Sitting on the Swiss ball forces us to sit up straight in order to have better balance and prevent us slipping off. This in turn improves our posture both on the ball and off it! 2. Less back pain Back pain is often caused by the increased pressure on the joints and other tissues of the spine such as the discs if and when there is no support from the back and abdominal muscles. Sitting on an unstable surface such as the Swiss ball otherwise known as the Fit ball, activates the muscles that protect your back from injury. 3. Better core control Research has recently shown that in gravity free environments such as space capsules, astronauts are unable to activate their core muscles. As these muscles are not being used they rapidly lose size and strength contributing to severe back problems upon their return to Earth. Even for those who have their feet firmly planted on the ground while sitting at a desk all day, weak abdominal muscles can still be a reality. So by swapping your chair for a Swiss ball for periods during the day, you’ll be improving your core control and spine stability. 4. Increased flexibility It’s amazing how inflexible we can become as we age or become inactive. The Swiss ball allows you to do a number of effective stretches which can vastly improve flexibility. It’s important to remember to breathe while you hold your stretches and never do anything that feels uncomfortable or causes pain. It’s a good idea to read Swiss ball instructions carefully and if you are in a rehab program discuss your individual requirements with a qualified instructor.
