stability ball

You’d be amazed what you can make from an exercise ball. We were today when 20-some teams transformed BalanceBalls into all manner of animal, vegetable and mineral, competing during our summer picnic to win gift certificates to the Gaiam Café.

Last week I wrote about keeping your gym membership and focusing on the gym amenities you really use. But if getting to the gym isn’t working for you, I suggest stocking your home with a few well-chosen pieces of exercise gear to help you start or maintain a consistent fitness regimen. Having your own gear handy puts you in control. It saves you time, since you never have to drive to and from the health club. It gives you a weatherproof alternative to outdoor activities like walking or biking. And it lets you squeeze in exercise in the morning before the kids wake up, in the evening while you’re watching your favorite TV show …

I love to use a stability ball with my personal training clients and in my strength training classes. Stability balls, also called fitness balls, BalanceBalls or Swiss balls, add that extra balance challenge, involving your core muscles in every move. They add fun and variety, they’re affordable and easy to move around, and their uses are numerous!

It’s finally “hip” to give healthy gifts! We are all realizing that health is our greatest gift — so why not support your loved ones’ fitness and wellness endeavors or motivate them to take care of themselves? Here my best ideas (some old, some new) for giving the gift of fitness:

1. Heart Rate Monitors