The first thing someone usually thinks when sees a fitball is “how fun it would be to sit on it and bounce”. Fitball are great for core strengthening, physical improvement and joint protection. There are ideal for functional training and rehabilitation. Due to their versatility they can offer a challenging program. The cost does not exceed 20 euros.
Fitball exercises “lead” to the next level.
Proprioception is necessary inside and outside the gym. It protects you from injuries as the joints are more stable and the muscles have the power to respond to “sudden” movements and situations.
You can exercise your entire body with a fitball as effectively as training with Pilates machines. Choose the right size and follow the instructions of our personal trainer Foteini Alexopoulou.
Push ups
Exercise of the week!
Starting position: Kneel on the mat placing your hands about shoulder width apart on the fitball in front of you.
Execution: Inhale and slowly lower your body towards the ball without letting your chest touch the ball.
Exhale and straighten your arms as you push your body off the fitball.
(3 sets x 10-12 reps).
- Keep your body straight engaging your core
- Bend your elbows without causing discomfort to your abdominals
- Keep your elbows slightly point straight out to the sides
- Try not to move the fitball
Varvara Solomonidou,Wellness Specialist, Personal Trainer, Seminar & Conference Lecturer, Pilates Master Trainer “AthensTrainers® Ultimate Pilates System®”, Member of Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), Member of European Lifestyle Medicine Organization (ELMO), DNAFit® Certified Trainer, General Manager & Owner of AthensTrainers®
Photos: Kostas Kapareliotis
Fotini wears H&M clothes, Ultra Boost Adidas shoes, mat and Fitball from Intersport
Source: Body Magazine, April 2019