Working out with a stability, or Swiss ball, is an awesome way to get a good workout. If you're not familiar with what a stability ball is, then you can look it up on your computer or stop by a sport store. They are large rubber balls that allow you to work on numerous things. Their sizes range from 35 cm to 85 cm depending on the types of movements you want to do. Some of the benefits include balance, stability and core exercises, and they are also great to stretch on. Brynn just bought one for relatively cheap at our local Wal-Mart. If you decide to buy one, you have the option of purchasing the nicer name brand models, but from my experience, a rubber ball is a rubber ball. Anyway, this morning, I found myself working out on our stability ball and it felt wonderful!

I started with just a basic stretch session to warm myself up. First, I laid myself down on top of the ball and reached back over my head as far as I could. I did this while laying on both my stomach and my back. Both ways feel great. Remember to be cautious when you are trying these exercises and to start with just some basic actions. The idea behind these initial movements is to work on balance as well.

Next, I propped one leg on top of the ball and kept the other out in front of me. This allowed me to work on single leg squats. A more simple variation is a wall squat and would be more suitable for beginning ball users. To do this, prop the ball up against a wall and position the ball on your lower back area. Then, simply lower yourself without going too far down, until a comfortable stretch is felt, and then raise up and repeat a few times until your muscles have a good pump. This exercise is a great way to build leg, lower back and abdominal strength. You can also find pictures of these exercises on the web.

To finish, I sat back down on the ball and then slightly rolled forward a little. I positioned myself to do a ball supported abdominal crunch. You can try squeezing and holding your abs tight to get a good workout too.

Remember, when your working with a stability ball you can achieve many things including balance, strength, and good stretching techniques. Always check with your physician, or the makers of your Swiss ball, to determine their recommended exercises and safe use procedures. People can sometimes overuse their stability balls creating better chances for injury. Be careful, have fun, and check with your doctor before use!

I might also add that this is a great way for people with diabetes to exercise in the safety of their own homes. This way, you will have access to food or drink if need be and also you can stop and check your sugar too. Sometimes people find it more comforting to GET BUFF on their swiss ball in their home and not at a crowded gym! I like to have my sugar a touch higher than normal depending on how long it has been since I have eaten or taken insulin. I would recommend that you try different things and find out what ways work best for you. However, if you're living with diabetes and you enjoy working out too, then you are well aware that nothing is ever the same with this disease! It is rare to find a "pattern!"

Thank you for reading -Andy.