Abdominal Pre/Post Exercise Stretch

Objective: stretch abdominal muscles

Description: This exercise is done while lying on your back over the ball. You need to either have someone help you at first or become familiar with the ball before you try this exercise alone. You must be able to keep your balance on the ball and relax at the same time. A ball that allows you to sit at the same height as a normal chair is ideal. A slightly under inflated ball is also easier to handle at first.

• Step One: Sit on the ball
• Step Two: Slowly walk your feet away from the ball until you are laying on your back on the ball. Keep your feet at least as wide as your shoulders.
• Step Three: Slowly raise your arms above your head keeping your arms wider than your shoulders.
• Step Four: Slowly walk back over the ball so that you are "belly up" on the ball.
• Step Five: Take several deep breaths with slow exhalation and let the abdominals stretch.

This exercise takes a bit of balance and coordination. You may go over the ball and land on your head, so please have a spotter to help you at first. This is a good exercise to do between reps of any kind while working with the gym ball.

Need a therapy ball? We've got 'em! Click on this link and get one or more: Exercise Therapy Balls

Warning: Therapeutic exercises should not significantly increase pain during the exercise. Increased pain or symptoms could be a sign of a more serious condition and you should consult your health care professional for guidance.