Bosu balls are half stability balls attached to a firm, flat base. They are used for
core fitness
and to improve balance by creating an unstable surface for exercisers.
They have become very popular as the focal point of fitness workouts. By
balancing
on them in a variety of positions (e.g., standing, seated, in a push up position), you have to tighten core (trunk) muscles to maintain stability. Movements in a variety of ranges can simulate daily activities, which helps improve daily function and prevent injuries.
Examples of Exercises:
Workouts that also include other types of exercise equipment (e.g.,
medicine balls,
foam rollers, exercise bands) make for good cardio and general fitness training, adding variety both for personal training and fitness classes.
There is some research that shows that these and other pieces of equipment can improve core strength and balance; however, the use of
free weights
appears to be more effective, perhaps due to the potential for greater
overloading.
The bottom line is, if you don't use free weights, these and other such balance devices are useful. If you train with free weights, you are already developing core strength and balance to the point where these devices are not so effective.
Recommended Products
Power Systems carries a good quality balance trainer (click banner below for website). The ideal one comes with a pump and DVD.
Bosu Balance Trainer with DVD--better to have one like this with a reinforced base of support (so it doesn't flip) regardless of the manufacturer.
--you might get a better deal here on a ball of the same quality, as long as shipping doesn't offset the better price.