Therapy Ball Workbook: Book Review

Do you have balls? How big are they? Are they rough or smooth? Firm or squishy?

It seems balls are all the rage in fitness, movement and physical therapy these days. Everything from tiny acupressure balls to ginormous stability balls.

We have quite a few balls in our house alone. A big stability ball, a medium stability ball, a soccer-ball sized squishy pilates ball, two very small firm pilates balls and one acupressure ball. Whew!

But hey, balls are awesome. That's why I was happy to review the Therapy Ball Workbook.

The Therapy Ball Workbook is a detailed guide of what kind of balls to use for what purpose. Different balls can be used for strengthening, conditioning, and stretching exercises. Part 1 explains the basics and gives you the information you need to have before you get started on a ball routine.

Part 2 explains how to use the book and then provides you with 7 different routines, based on your goals (core stability, total body workout, muscle release, etc.).

Part 3 gives detailed instructions for each exercise, along with photos of each being performed.

None of the strength or conditioning exercises are new to me, but many of the stretch and active release ones are and I can't wait to try them. Be aware that while some ball exercises are easy and gentle, some exercises using balls can be extremely advanced. Like any other new activity, be sure that what you are doing is appropriate for you and your body.

If you have no balls, I highly recommend you get some. They are incredibly versatile. You might want to pick up this book too, because it contains a wealth of information about how to get the most from your balls.

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