A Safer Way to Strong Abs
Stephen Clark, PT, DPT, MHS, OCS, MBA

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Start out gradually with this exercise and progress, as you get stronger.

1. Lie on top of the ball so that your lower back is supported, your thighs are parallel to the ground and your feet are flat and shoulder-width apart.
2. Place your arms across your chest or behind the head, gently supporting your head.
3. Allow your body to curve over the top of the ball letting your stomach muscles stretch.
4. Tighten your stomach muscles as you curl your body up and around the ball.
5. Once you have reached the top, slowly lower yourself down and repeat.
6. Once you master that, try twisting slightly as you curl-up. This will really get the sides and give you a great looking and strong abdominal region.

This exercise is one of many that you can perform on the stability ball. The ball allows for a full range of motion while combining strength and balance to perform individual exercises. This will help you become strong and coordinated for everyday activities. Unfortunately, a lot of the fancy equipment in your gym just doesn't offer the same result.

- written by Stephen Clark, PT, DPT, MHS, OCS, MBA (original article printed in Los Angeles Sports and Fitness, November 2001)