Bosu, An Instrument To Improve Your Physical Condition

The BOSU (Both Sides Up) is an instrument for physical exercise recently incorporated in the training of sports professionals. Little by little it is becoming common in gyms, either as a complement to toning exercises or using it in directed classes.

Find out in this article what this hemispherical platform consists of and how you can benefit from it. You’ll see how you want to try it!

What is the BOSU?

The BOSU is a platform in the shape of a half sphere with a rigid base, as if it were a half ball. It can be used on both sides, multiplying its possibilities.

In addition, it is suitable for working with different levels of intensity. In fact, it is used by people who only want to improve their elasticity with stretching, to elite athletes for their preparation.

The BOSU allows so many possibilities that we can already see it in different sports disciplines. Next, we detail what they are.

Of course, in the case of suffering any problem or physical pain, you should consult with the doctor who follows the patient’s history on the use of this type of platform.

What does the BOSU allow us to work?

First of all, in 45 or 60 minute directed classes, we can use it as a support. We can carry out toning and cardiovascular work programs.

It is a fitness exercise to which is added the fact that you must maintain your balance on a deformable surface. This makes the muscles worked many and with great intensity. The muscles of the legs, abs and back are used. In addition, the exercise is carried out without impacts or loads, minimizing the risk of injury.

The purpose is to do a functional training, in which the movements are similar to those we carry out continuously in daily life. Therefore, we do not train isolated muscle groups, but by toning the whole body and integrating it with coordination, balance and proprioception.

We can also use the BOSU to perform series of exercises such as squats, sit-ups, stretching, balancing exercises on one leg, dynamic bottom, etc. Either supported on the rigid base or on the unstable one.

Benefits of BOSU

The benefits of exercising on unstable surfaces during workouts have been a topic of discussion in recent years, as noted in a Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine. According to this medium:

Now, the same research indicates that its effects can vary depending on the type of exercise, the instability device used, the weight lifting and the subject’s training history.

In any case, practicing BOSU on a regular basis, under a professional-led training program, can provide the following benefits:

• For starters, build muscle strength and endurance. Strengthens the muscles of the trunk, abdomen, back, legs and buttocks.
• It favors the adaptation of the muscles.
• It allows us to perform postural reeducation exercises to take care of our back and prevent injuries or future problems.
• Improves flexibility and elasticity. Specifically, when placed with the dome up, it turns out to be a good support for back and abdominal stretches. 
• Work on agility and coordination.
• It also helps us stay focused.
• Helps in injury recovery.
• In addition, if we perform aerobic exercises with the BOSU, we will burn calories, helping us in a weight loss program.
• Finally, it adapts to different levels of work.

Have you tried the BOSU yet? If you just know it, enlist the help of a professional trainer to start incorporating it into your exercises. In addition, gradually adjust the intensity of the routine to avoid falls or injuries.