basic balance exercises without equip-
ment first,” she says. Add weights or a
piece of balance and stability equip-
ment at a later date.
“Balance equipment like wobble
boards and BOSU balls are great, but
only for people who are already sta-
ble balancing on flat ground,” says Airex® Balance-pad Elite
Billowits, who caters to the older adult the new airex Balance-pad elite makes an immediate impression as a re-
market. And because clients with poor sult of the sophisticated non-slip waffle finish on its surfaces. in addition,
balance usually have weak ankle sta- the new surface pattern provides pleasant massage and stimulation to
bilizers, hip stabilizers and calves, it is the receptors in the soles of the feet while actively promoting blood cir-
important to include strengthening ex- culation . the Balance-pad elite can be used on both sides which extends
ercises for these key muscles to see im- its life. For more information and BeBalanced! training programs, visit
provement in their balance, she adds.
www.bebalanced.net.
The fun factor
One of the biggest advantages of us-
ing equipment is that clients simply The Disco Sport
enjoy it, says Kari Galasso, a Kingston, oPtP’s new inflatable disc is larger
Ontario, personal trainer who reg- than other discs, providing more
ularly uses stability balls, BOSUs, versatility. the wider 22” diam-
the Lebert Equalizer and the TRX eter allows you to add stability
Suspension System for balance and and proprioceptive challenges
core conditioning. “Adding equipment to more exercises than ever
makes exercises more fun for both before. the Disco Sport’s size
kids and adults,” says Galasso, who makes it great to use in sitting,
works with adult personal training prone and standing position, even
clients and youth sports teams. “And with a wide stance. easily inflates to desired
when exercise is enjoyable, people tend height between 2.5” and 7.5”. For more information,
to stick to their programs and see fast- visit
www.optp.com or call 800-367-7393.
er results.”
»
try these balance and balance/core strength
exercises from Scott Sternthal of montreal’s
u.N.i. training:
1. Between resistance training sets, have clients recover by standing
on a BoSu with their feet together and eyes closed.
2. While performing exercises like lateral raises and biceps curls, have
your clients stand on a SitFit without letting their feet touch the floor.
3. in a push-up position, simultaneously raise the right arm and the
left foot a few inches off the floor for a split second, then repeat on the
other side.
4. in a side plank position with the body supported by one hand and
the outside of one foot, reach the top arm and top leg up to create an X
shape with the body. For more challenge, lower and lift the top leg.
November/December 2009 Fitness Business Canada 27
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