The History of the Yoga Exercise Ball

The yoga exercise ball is the best thing since sliced bread. It is a large plastic ball that is filled with air and can be used for just about any type of exercise. You can do aerobic, strength training and stretching exercises all on this one piece of equipment. You can even use it while you are watching television or listening to your favorite music. This piece of equipment fits well into almost any lifestyle and is suited for any age.

The exercise ball has become quite popular in the last several years, but where did it come from? The yoga ball was invented by an Italian toy maker named Aquilino Cosani in 1963. European physical therapists and hospitals were the first group of people to use the ball and it was used for rehabilitation. The ball started being used in the United States in the 1980s.

The exercise ball was first used in the United States by Joanne Posner-Mayer to treat her patients that had neurological disorders. It wasn’t long after that, personal trainers began using the exercise ball as part of their workout routines. The yoga was first used to help athletes and performs develop their balance and coordination.

By the mid 1990s the ball was being used for a full workout. Gyms and fitness facilities now offer classes that consist of exercises performed on the exercise ball. These exercises are sometimes combined with weights and resistance bands allowing for a full workout. The variety and combinations of exercises that can be performed on the yoga ball is quite extensive.

The exercise ball is available in many stores and online for home use. It is great way to work exercise into your daily routine. Even if you tend to be a couch potato, this is a piece if exercise equipment you will feel comfortable using.

Marjorie Salada is the owner of Weight Loss 3000, a website that contains information on weight loss, exercise, weight loss surgery and living a healthy lifestyle.