I recently purchased a Wobble Balance board using my airmiles credit card on paypal. Anyway, I purchased the board for a total of $50 after shipping (to Canada) from ebay! I've now had the board for over a month and think a review is in order.

I purchased this board because I've had problems with my ankles in the past. I originally had a high ankle strain, similar to Sidney Crosby, about 2 years ago. Since then I've had ankles that are fairly weak. A friend recommended a wobble board to rehabilitate and strengthen it. Probably what Sidney Crosby is up to!

I purchased the EVERLAST FITNESS BALANCE WOBBLE BOARD. This board is approximately 16" in diameter and measures 1.5" from the ground (or 10-20 degree tilt). This board is a great for beginners because of the low tilt. The higher the tilt the harder the balance point. Although, I'm happy with my purchase I'd recommend looking for a board with different height settings. You'll probably pay a little extra, however, you'll have the ability to change the difficulty level for when you improve.

Anyway, here are four exercises that I've found that have really improved my balance and strength. I definitely recommend these exercises when you get your board. Do you have any other exercises that you like? I'm always looking for more to add to my repertoire (and this hub).

1. Two Foot Balance
   • This consists of simply standing on the board and finding your balance. Sounds easy right? It's not that simple though. If you do find it simple then try and rocking forward and backwards to change the muscles that are being activated.
2. One Foot Balance
   • Similar to the two foot balance. However, this time you're using one foot. (shown on the right, sorry about the ugly foot). This one is much trickier and I recommend having a wall near when you first start out. When you find this one easy you can start incorporating the Tree (from yoga).
3. Balance and Squat
   • Balance as in the two foot balance. Once balance is reached perform a squat. This will make a normal squat into a very challenging squat.

4. Push-up
   • Place both hands on the wobble board and perform a push-up. This will work all your chest and back muscles for maximum balance and strength!

Finally, I guess if you're board (get it? board?) you can always hop on the board with your dog. It worked for the guy in the video to the right. LOL!

If you have ankle or balance problems I highly recommend getting yourself a wobble board. I'm sure you'll find that they'll improve your core and strength. If you have any other exercises let me know and I'll try them out!