Stabilizing and Strength

Hi,

Yesterday we talked about the use of stabilizing balls in the gym.  If you are trying to build strength then it is best to stay away from these balls.  You need a solid platform to work on your strength.

If you use stability balls then use them for only that purpose - to work on your balance and stabilizing muscles.  And use much less weight. 

But, what if there was a way to do both?  Well, there is. 

However, in our example from yesterday with biceps curls, it is still much better to work from a stable position if your main goal is strength. 

If you feel you need help with your stabilizing muscles and still want to build strength, then try a few of these exercises.  You will be using dumbbells for these biceps curl exercises. 

From a standing position step forward with your left foot and do one curl with your left arm.  Do the same thing with the right side.  Repeat this pattern for five or six times to complete your set. 

From a standing position step backwards with your left foot and do one curl with your left arm.   Do the same thing with the right side. Repeat this pattern for five or six times to complete your set.

From a standing position step sideways with your left foot and do one curl with your left arm.  Do the same thing with the right side. Repeat this pattern for five or six times to complete your set.

You can also step forwards and backwards at 45 degree angles.  Another variation is to step with the left leg and curl with the right arm and vice versa. 

You can also walk the length of the gym while doing curls.  Walk forwards, backwards and sideways. 

Doing these exercises will help you increase your balance, increase the neuron activity in your stabilizing muscles and also work your biceps muscles. 

This is the best of all worlds.  Your stabilizing and your strength will both increase.

If you would like to see these exercises being performed you can click on the link below.

Thanks,

Mike Val
stabilizing exercises