I'm including images from the boxes, because it does a better job showing how to use these products than I'll be able to explain with words:
The Ab Roller is an interesting addition to our home gym equipment. As shown by the photo on the box, you kneel, grab onto the handles, and roll forwards, then back to your starting position. Both my Husband & I have noticed that while doing the exercise (2-3 sets of 10), it doesn't seem very difficult. However, the next day we both really feel it in our abs! I like it. My only complaint is that the knee pad that is included is too thin to be helpful. If you have your own mat at home, use that instead.
The Balance Board is more of a therapeutic tool, in my opinion. It's something that was recommended to me by my PT for rehabilitating my knee. The main idea is that you stand on it, and shift your weight side by side to improve balance and agility. You can also stand on it while to engage your core while doing upper body free weight exercises. I like the balance board for these reasons, but I'm not sure it's something every runner would appreciate. However, I did notice that Balance Board exercises were mentioned in the latest issue of Runner's World in conjunction with barefoot running, so maybe I'm wrong on that point.
Thanks for stopping by! I used a type of balance board a lot in PT. I would balance on my bad leg and throw a ball. Either way it works the muscles for sure.
ReplyDeleteReally the ab roller didn't seem that tough? It seems like it would be preposterously hard...to me anyway.
ReplyDeleteI have a balance board. Sad to say the kids use it way more than I do.
My dad has the ab roller and I've tested it out -- it IS tough!
ReplyDeleteThey have something similar to the ab thing at physical therapy and they have those exact balance boards. Yeah, even though the ab thing seems gimicky, it does work, but like most things it only works if you use it. LOL. (My boss buys anything that says it's for abs and gives up after a short while...) Try doing squats on the balance board -- those can be seriously tough!
ReplyDeletei've been wanting one of those ab rollers for a while, and i've used the one at the gym before. looks great! but yea tough.
ReplyDeleteGreat review Lisa! I had an abe roller just like the one you have pictured. I have no idea where it is right now:) Thanks for the trip down memory lane!
ReplyDeleteI've used things like this is bootcamp classes at the gym - I'd love to have them at home!
ReplyDeletePhotos of boxes? How about some videos ;)
ReplyDeletemy parents had an ab roller at some point. It can defintely make you sore!
Look at you, big shot - getting products to review. ;)
ReplyDeleteThose balance boards are great for strengthening the stabilizer muscles in your ankles! Good stuff!!
ReplyDeleteI have always wanted to try the ab roller. Glad you feel results from it.
ReplyDeleteBTW, I go back to to work in about two weeks. We (teachers) officially start on the 26th, kids start the 31st, but I am sure I will be going in to prep my room on 23rd. Yay....
i have wondered about a balance board a number of times! I think it would be good to use while lifting and probably help with my ITB too
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