eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Do a Ball Abdominal Crunch Core Exercise

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Using an exercise ball can be a great way to add variation, challenge and fun to your workout. Working your core muscles is a great way to increase muscle tone and overall health and strength. Combine the two in a ball-assisted crunch exercise for a perfect addition to your workout routine.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Exercise Ball

    How to do a Ball Abdominal Crunch Exercise

  1. Step 1

    Select the correct ball for your height and weight and make sure that it is properly inflated. The right ball with the correct inflation will ensure that your workout is as effective as possible and will protect you against injury.To see if the ball is the right size for you, sit on top of the ball with your feet flat on the floor. Your knees should be at or just slightly larger than 90-degree angle. In other words, your hips should be level with or slightly higher than your knees. Your knees should not be higher than your hips.The ball should be inflated to the height that is indicated on the ball. Do not over inflate as this may cause the ball to burst.

  2. Step 2

    To position yourself, sit on the ball and walk your legs forward so that your body slides down the ball. Stop when your lower back is entirely against the ball.

  3. Step 3

    Lean back so that your back drapes over the ball. Interlock your fingers behind your head and pull your elbows away from each other. This will be your starting position for your crunch.

  4. Step 4

    Contract your abs and lift your upper body forward. Squeeze at the top of the move and exhale.

  5. Step 5

    With a controlled movement, lower your torso back over the ball and inhale as you get to the bottom of the move.

Tips & Warnings
  • Check with a trainer to ensure proper form.
  • Take care when getting on or off the exercise ball.
  • Do not over inflate the exercise ball.
  • If you experience pain before, during or after exercise, stop the exercise and consult a doctor.
Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Get Free Sports & Fitness Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

eHow Sports and Fitness
eHow_eHow Sports and Fitness