The pilates ball was introduced into the Pilates fitness program after the passing of the founder, Joseph Pilates. An Italian toy maker, Aquilino Cosani, has been credited with the invention in the 1960’s. They appeared in European hospitals and clinics, and were used for physical therapy in Switzerland, thus the moniker ‘Swiss balls’. Pilates is a generic term applied to a philosophy, which is based upon breath awareness and mindful attention, as one strengthens the core muscles. Termed ‘the powerhouse’, they include abdominals, pelvic floor, diaphragm, and muscles of the back, hips, and buttocks, which in turn support correct posture and spinal alignment. Pilates balls are also referred to as fitness balls, balance balls, stability balls, physio balls, or Swiss balls, and are used for a variety of exercises in addition to specific pilates ball exercises. When shopping, look for a pump and instructional DVD in your package.

Before beginning your pilates ball workout, ascertain that you have the correct size. Although balls of varying sizes can be incorporated into a routine, it is important to have one which, when sitting with your feet flat on the floor, produces a 90 degree, or slightly larger, angle. And for safe and comfortable handling, your pilates fitness ball should be slightly under inflated. Now you can apply creativity and imagination to all of your exercises using the pilates core ball. A simple forward and backward stretch over the ball can be almost indulgent. Substitute it for your office chair, even if for a brief period of your day. You will strengthen your core muscles, practice proper alignment, improve balance, and even have fun with a little bounce now and then. Any use will challenge balance, leverage, and stability. The addition of hand weights will intensify any workout, and the effort to maintain proper form according to Pilates principles will amplify results. It is recommended than one be an intermediate or advanced practitioner of Pilates when incorporating the ball into specific exercises. Modifications include propping legs up on the ball, placing it between the ankles, balancing hips on the ball, resting hands on the ball, or holding it in the hands for roll ups and other floor moves. One need not be a Pilates participant to benefit from this equipment. Yoga enthusiasts as well as exercise generalists enjoy the challenges to balance and abdominal strength provided.

The pilates ball has proven to be motivating in schoolrooms, increasing good posture and core strength in young children as they work to stay on their individual balls. There is a training period and timed applications so they do not roll off or tire. Children designated as hyperactive are calmed by the attention required to balance. WittFitt, LLC is one company that promotes their use in classrooms with a well thought out curriculum and integration with a physical education program. The company offers the additional features of feet, a rolling base, or a full rolling frame. Every student will ‘be on the ball’, engaging mind and body.