The Gym Ball has also been known as the Pregnancy Ball, Birth Ball and even the Pregnancy Exercise Ball.
There is never a more important time to be fit and healthy than when you are pregnant. But, as with all exercises, you should consult your doctor before beginning them. While gym balls are generally safe to use during a pregnancy, they may not be recommended for some women.
When inflating your gym ball make sure you begin with the ball partially inflated. The firmer the ball the less stability it has and the harder the exercises.
The Gym Ball helps with pregnancy by improving your balance and strengthening abdominal muscles. This in turn makes it easier for you to push more effectively during labour which can speed up labour. It also helps with lower back pain and can help relax the pelvis. It is also understood that it can help with 'optimal foetal positioning', helping to get the baby into a good position for birth.
Many pregnant women say that just sitting on it helps, and that it was in fact the only thing comfortable to sit on in late pregnancy. When your contractions are hurting just getting onto your gym ball and moving around in a figure of 8 helps no end.
It works because when you are sitting on the ball, in order to balance you have no choice but to sit correctly, keeping your back straight and pelvis aligned, and so reducing backache and helping the baby get properly engaged in a good position.
Rather than slouching on the sofa watching tv, try sitting on your gym ball instead! You'll find it very relaxing to bounce and rock on your ball, especially in early labour.
When you have got used to your gym ball, try doing a few gentle exercises. Here is a great video to get you started, and when you are ready for some more exercises, check out our DVD and Books section!
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Birth-ease Birth Ball & Pump (75cm) Sale Price: £21.99  Eligible for free shipping!Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days 1 new from £21.99  |
Description
The Birth-ease Birth Ball and Pump Created exclusively for Birth-ease with pregnancy and labour in mind. A superior quality, anti-burst birth ball for comfort and exercise during pregnancy, encouraging optimal foetal positioning and an active, mobile birth. After your baby is born, use the ball for gentle bouncing to soothe your newborn - the modern day rocking chair! The detailed photographic guide shows you how to use your Birth Ball: In Pregnancy: * for relief from back pain and pregnancy discomfort * for optimal foetal positioning, getting your baby into the best position for birth * for prenatal exercises to keep fit during pregnancy and build strength for labour. These include squats, stretches and leg bends * for pelvic floor exercises In Labour: * help to cope with contractions * for relaxation in labour * for progressing labour and dilation of the neck of the uterus * to support mobile, active birth positions Superior birth ball quality The Birth-ease Ball is manufactured in Italy by Birth Ball specialists. It's anti-burst construction means that should the ball get punctured whilst you are sitting on it, it will deflate gradually to prevent you and your baby from injury. It is rigorously tested up to 300kgs in weight and its non-slip surface helps give extra stability. 65cm (or 75cm) Sizing When sitting on the ball, your hips should be 8-10cm higher than your knees. Select the correct size for your height: 65cm: Up to 5'8 (up to 173cm) 75cm: 5'8 and over (174cm and over) Hand Pump Supplied with a quality faster blaster hand pump for inflation. Its dual action means the ball can be inflated in a few minutes. Very useful when taking the ball to hospital with you and also could be used as a balloon pump for all those birthday parties to come!
Features
- Superior Quality Anti-burst Birthing Ball. Made in Italy by Birthing Ball specialist.
- Supplied with full instructions for pregnancy exercises, labour support & active birth positions
- Faster Blaster Hand Pump included and 2 plugs.
- Size 75cm for height 5'8 (173cm) and over. (65cm ball also available on Amazon for women under 5'8)
- Fast despatch
