Pregnancy Ball
When people talk about a pregnancy ball, or pregnancy exercise
ball, they are usually talking about Swiss exercise balls, but for the
benefit of this article we will refer to them as pregnancy balls.
Why use a Pregnancy Ball?
Sitting on an pregnancy ball is
excellent for reducing lower back pain thanks to the soft but firm
support provided by the ball,
you also slightly tilt the pelvis which especially helps reduce the
build up of pressure. Plus a gentle bounce
while seated will stimulate spinal fluid.
The use during pregnancy of a
ball to adapt exercises
to a seated position can also be very beneficial for those who wish
to remain active, adding support, comfort and relieving pressure on
joints, while still allowing you freedom of movement.
Furriballs
Let’s face it, when you’re pregnant being comfortable
isn’t always easy. Furriballs are soft furry covers specifically
made to go over these pregnancy balls. With a variety of colours and short
or long furred options to choose from, not only do they feel good,
but they look good too. (Plus they are pretty much guaranteed to
make you smile.)
Post Pregnancy
Did you know that getting back into exercise quickly after
pregnancy may help reduce the likelihood of postnatal depression?
Pregnancy balls are widely used for strengthen
trunk muscles, while improving balance and posture, plus they are also
great for engaging your pelvic floor muscles, as demonstrated in
Gin
Millers Exercise Ball DVD. So a
ball could be just the thing
to start you exercising as a mum.
Pregnancy & Exercise
The
Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Women's
Health have some wonderful information available including a
Fit for
Birth pdf and a
Fit for Pregnancy pdf full of useful advice for all
stages of pregnancy including post birth. |
