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.

Side bend

Exercise of the week!

Starting position: Lie on your side on the fitbal allowing  your upper body to bend over the surface of the ball. Extend your legs and position one in front of the other for stability. Arms bent with your fingers touching your forehead.

Execution: Inhale and during exhalation raise your upper body off the ball until you feel a mild stretch in your side. Inhale and return to starting position.2 sets X 12 reps on each side

Keep the movement slow.

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