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Teaching Hatha Yoga: Yoga on the Ball
by Peter M. MrBy Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500
Where did this ball come from? Is the stability ball a legitimate Yoga prop or just a marketing gimmick for equipment sales? Who could benefit from the use of the ball in a class? When can the stability ball fit into a Hatha class? Where did this ball come from? Stability balls have been around since 1963, originating in Italy. The first time I saw a stability ball, we called it a, “Swiss Ball.” Yet, the Swiss Balls at that time, were all made in Italy. American Physical Therapists saw the ball, in use, within physical therapy Swiss units.
As a result, the ball was nick named the Swiss Ball by Americans for decades. The first balls we used at Aura Wellness Center were made by Gymnic Balls in Italy. We tried many brands, but my personal ball is an old Gymnic Ball, which has taken more abuse than it deserved. At this time, these balls are commonly referred to as stability balls, Yoga balls, exercise balls, or balance balls. They are used in physical therapy units, Pilates classes, Yoga studios, and in many health clubs. Many elite and professional athletes use them for coordination.
Is the stability ball a legitimate prop or just an exercise marketing gimmick for equipment sales? Any piece of equipment can be termed an exercise marketing gimmick, but the stability ball has hundreds of uses. You can use the ball before and during asana practice, while performing a standing warm up, Sun Salutation, seated series, prone series, table series, supine on the ball series, and supine on the floor series (with legs or feet on top of the ball).
Who could benefit from the use of the ball in a class? Beginners can use the stability ball for many poses. For example: In wheel posture (Chakrasana), holding this position is not for everyone, but the stability balls, and a wall, make it possible for everyone. With a stability ball, beginner Hatha Yoga students can gain the benefits of Chakrasana for minutes. To be more enlightened about Teaching Hatha Yoga: Yoga on the Ball visit www.aurawellnesscenter.com.
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About Peter M. 
Mr
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