SPRINGER: Fitness: New gadget hits gyms

By now the large resistance balls seen around the gym are common-place. Many people are using them as part of their regular fitness routine and they continue to gain popularity.

The phrase "core stability" is still hot in the fitness industry and there is a new gadget that intends to take this type of training to the next level.

The BOSU balance trainer is a hybrid fitness tool that looks like a large fitness ball cut in half and mounted on a flat surface. BOSU is an acronym for "both sides up" meaning the trainer can be used with the platform side either up or down for different types of balance challenges.

The BOSU can be used for sports conditioning, stabilization, strength training and is easily incorporated into any existing fitness program.

Sports conditioning by nature is dynamic. The qualities of sports movement that can be trained with the BOSU include muscular strength, endurance and power, agility, balance, proprioception and flexibility.

Static exercises like standing on one foot coupled with dynamic exercises like jumping on the ball and "sticking" a position can transfer to virtually any sport.

According to Douglas Brooks, a medical specialist and leader in the exercise field, balance training on a dynamic, gel-like surface requires a collaborative effort by your muscles, which will result in improved posture and functional movement experiences.

Balance training will enhance coordination and neuromuscular function. From rehabilitation and daily movement requirements to enhancement of functional movement and sports performance, balance training has specific carry-over.

When training with the specific goal of improving balance, you must start with a graduated course of movements. From simple to complex, each movement builds upon a foundation you have already established.

For example, a simple balance drill would involve standing on the BOSU with both feet and maintaining proper posture. Next, you would advance to adding arm movements. This same course is followed but the next level would be to stand on one leg. Again, the fun in using the BOSU is that you can use either side to create a different challenge in your program.

The current issue of Men's Fitness contains a simple BOSU trainer workout. This series is just part of the spectrum of exercises that the BOSU can be used for. The BOSU retails for about $150 but I would highly suggest buying it in addition to some type of training manual.

As with any new balance tool, whether it is the BOSU, the Core Board or a balance board, it is natural to move into and out of balanced positions. This same fact holds true for real-life movement, which is why functional balance training is so important to daily life and sport requirements.

Kim Springer and her husband, Mike, are Certified Personal Trainers and owners of Springer Training. They can be reached at 233-9442 or at their Web site www.springertraining.com.


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