Medicine balls and stability balls are the most commonly used types of exercise balls, both of which are commonly used by physical therapists and personal trainers to improve core strength, balance and upper body strength. They are inexpensive, portable, easy to store and versatile.

Medicine balls range in size and weight. They are usually made of durable rubber or leather and then filled with sand. They range from 2 to 30 pounds in weight. Most exercise with medicine balls involves throwing and catching the ball (or throwing it against a wall, if it bounces, so you won’t need a partner). Because the ball is so heavy, it challenges your upper body and core muscles as you catch and release the ball. You can also use it as a weight for lifting, in place of a dumbbell. Some medicine balls have handles on them for easier manageability. Make sure you choose a medicine ball that is heavy enough to challenge your arms, shoulders, back and abdominal muscles, but not so heavy to wear you out in a few repetitions.

Stability balls are larger than medicine balls, but are very light because they are filled with air. Ranging from 45-80 centimeters in diameter, you will want to find a stability ball that allows you to position your legs so that your knees are at a 90 degree angle when you sit on the ball. Stability balls are used for a variety of balancing and strengthening exercises, such as holding plank positions, doing crunches, performing push-ups and executing squats. The ball provides a challenging back drop for these exercises, forcing you to engage your abdominal muscles as you balance and perform.

If you want to maximize your exercise potential, invest in a medicine ball and a stability ball, then hire a personal trainer for one session to learn the basics of exercise ball routines. Another option is to attend aerobics classes at a fitness center or to invest in a DVD of stability and medicine ball exercise techniques. You’ll find that exercise with the medicine ball and stability ball combined can most muscle groups effectively.

Have you ever wondered why we have countless individuals finding out ways to quit alcohol and drug addiction without having success? I have come across countless of them in forums. They tell you of their desire to quit. They know of the devastating effect their addiction is bringing on them and their loved ones. Many of them have even lost high paying jobs and are now broke. But despite the answers of countless individuals in such forums and articles on the internet, there are still lots of individuals who are unable to win the fight. The problem with such individuals is that they fail to take the necessary steps required. These individuals simply read books, magazines, articles and answers on countless forums but they are not taking the steps needed. I want you to know that you can never overcome your addiction problem if you don’t take action.

If you are short of cash and can’t afford to check into an alcohol and drug addiction treatment center, there are some steps you can take to quit. One of the numerous steps you can take is to separate yourself from individuals that customarily make you to take to drinks and substances. If you are really serious about dropping out, you will dump all your alcohol and drug dependent friends. No matter what you used to overcome the problem, as long as these friends are still around, you will have problem dropping out. So, separate from them. Furthermore, there is need for you to avoid all forms of gatherings that will make you fall. Politely turn down any request to attend late night parties where the temptation is often strong and hard to resist.

After avoiding individuals and gatherings that promote alcohol and drug addiction, it is really important for you to replace them with individuals and gatherings that will sustain your new life. This is very important because if you don’t replace them with these new individuals and gatherings, your desire for a new life will be short-lived. Get involved in community projects or religious activities. These will consume your attention and time and you will not have time for drinks and substances again.