The first thing someone usually thinks when sees a fitball is “how fun it would be to sit on it and bounce”. Fitball are great for core strengthening, physical improvement and joint protection. There are ideal for functional training and rehabilitation. Due to their versatility they can offer a challenging program. The cost does not exceed 20 euros.

Fitball exercises  “lead” to the next level.

Proprioception is necessary inside and outside the gym. It protects you from injuries as the joints are more stable and the muscles have the power to respond to “sudden” movements and situations.

You can exercise your entire body with a fitball as effectively as training with Pilates machines. Choose the right size and follow the instructions of our personal trainer Foteini Alexopoulou.

Front kicks

Exercise of the week!

Starting position: Kneel and lean your hip against ball. Place the one hand  on top of the ball, and the other slightly  on it for balance. Your bottom hip should be directly over your bottom knee. Extend your top leg to hip height, ensuring that the leg is parallel to the floor.

Execution: Inhale as you flex the top leg and pulse forward. Exhale as you point your leg and pulse backwards.

• keep your torso firm
• avoid hyperextending your torso as you pulse your leg backwards
• strenghten your core
• your bottom hip should be directly over your bottom knee
• move slowly

Varvara Solomonidou,Wellness Specialist, Personal Trainer, Seminar & Conference Lecturer, Pilates Master Trainer “AthensTrainers® Ultimate Pilates System®”, Member of Pilates Method Alliance (PMA),  Member of European Lifestyle Medicine Organization (ELMO), DNAFit®  Certified Trainer, General Manager & Owner of AthensTrainers®

Photos: Kostas Kapareliotis

Fotini wears H&M clothes, Ultra Boost Adidas shoes, mat and  Fitball from Intersport

Source: Body Magazine, April 2019