Resist-a-ball (exercise ball)
Which Exercise Ball is the Right Size for You?
Determining which size exercise ball is ideal for you:
Ideally, if you are sitting on the ball with your feet flat, your
hips and knees should form a 90-degree angle with each other. This
sitting position is called the 90-degree rule for sitting.
Ball size is not only determined by your height, but also your
weight and intended exercise position (sitting, lying on your back,
standing, etc.). If you are 5 ft. 6 in. tall and weigh 250 pounds,
use a 65 cm ball. However, if you are 5 ft. 8 in. and have very
short legs, you may want to try using a 55 cm. ball.
What can you do if the ball you purchase is bigger in diameter
than the aforementioned guidelines?
The answer is, don't inflate your ball as much. For example, if
you purchase a 65 cm. ball and are only 5 ft. 2 in. tall, fit the
ball using the 90-degree rule in sitting. If your ball is underinflated,
the ball will not be as firm, but you will continue to reap the
benefits of the Resist-A-Ball.
Strength Coach Charles Poliquin recommends purchasing two balls
a 65 centimeter and a 55 centimeter ball. The important thing is
to buy a ball big enough so that your dumbbells won't touch the
ground during certain arm exercises.
The following serves as a guideline for determining the
appropriate Maxafe Resist-A-Ball size:
If you are 5' to 5' 7 in tall: the 55 cm / 21 in. Resist-A-Ball
is recommended.
If you are over 5' 8" to 6' 3" tall: the 65 cm / 25 in
Resist-A-Ball is recommended.
The Care and Feeding of the Exercise Ball - Once
you get your exercise ball, make sure you blow it up until the skin
is taut. If your elbows cave in too much when you perform curls,
you'll lose some of the effectiveness of this wonderful tool. The
balls are inflated according to size not pressure. Each ball has
the maximum diameter (height off the floor) in centimeters printed
on it. An electric air compressor and hand pumps for air rafts or
air mattresses with a cone shaped nozzle work the best. Car or tire
repair facilities usually have compressed air in their shops. Never
inflate the ball larger than the maximum diameter.
The balls are very durable, but keep in mind that you shouldn't
leave them in your car, particularly if you live in a climate that
suffers from extreme heat or extreme cold. The ball is also not
intended for outdoor use. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and
warm, soapy water. Do not use harsh, abrasive chemical cleaners
that may scratch the ball. Also do not let the ball come in contact
with newspaper, photocopies or other materials printed in black
ink. The ink will mark the ball permanently.
Exercises with an
Exercise Ball »
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