Want to maximize your calorie burn and take your strength training to the next level? Today we are going to accomplish this by adding a BOSU Ball to your Total Gym Workout.
Benefits of BOSU® Ball Training
The BOSU ball is a functional tool that trains movement. It helps improve coordination, stability and balance within every component of fitness. Why is functional training important? Because it allows you to perform everyday functions with ease of movement and trains you to move quickly and efficiently with little to no wasted movement. Every exercise performed on the BOSU, whether sitting, standing or lying on the ball challenges your core muscles to work smart. I personally love that both Total Gym and the BOSU are amazing core training tools and work very well together.
Burn More Calories
Doing an exercise on the BOSU versus a stable surface increases the intensity of the workout because you’re adding instability. This is a big plus for maximizing your hard work and keeping your body strong and agile. Of course we work hard because we want to look great, but having a strong, healthy body in the long run is a pretty nice perk too.
The amount of calories you burn largely depends on your level of fitness and the intensity you put into the workout. Based on post-workout heartrate monitor data, women can burn up to 700 calories and men 1000 calories performing the full-body workout below.
Some days are harder than others. We’ve all had those days when it takes a bit more to get the engine going. Maybe you didn’t sleep well the night before, you’re having a busy day and didn’t have time to eat lunch or you’re stressed. I’m just saying listen to your body and work smart – take care of your body and it will take care of you. Do the work and results will follow.
Let’s Talk Safety
Make sure your BOSU is inflated to the correct level. A flat BOSU can be hard on your ankles while an over-inflated ball makes it more challenging to balance.
Cross training shoes are best because they provide heel to toe and lateral support. You can work out in runners, but be mindful not to let your ankles roll out to the sides. The correct shoe can also help to minimize foot fatigue.
Keep your knees slightly bent while standing on the ball. Locking at the knee joints may cause injury to your back if you lose your balance.
Wipe surface sweat from the BOSU. It is slippery when wet.
Keep your eyes on the prize and more importantly keep your eyes open. Keeping your eyes fixed on an object can help you stay balanced. Closing your eyes on the BOSU is awesome too, but that’s a workout for another time.
Now go grab your workout gear, a towel and some water and let’s work get to work.
Total Gym + BOSU Ball Full Body Workout
