Stability Ball Sitting versus Chair Sitting During Sub-maximal Arm Ergometry.

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Sports Science

Background:

• Arm ergometry is a common exercise modality.
• Stability balls are increasingly used in exercise settings.
• The impact of stability balls on physiological responses during arm ergometry is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of sitting on a stability ball versus a chair during arm ergometry.
• To determine if stability ball use elevates cardiovascular parameters.
• To assess the association between stability ball use and skeletal muscle recruitment.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-six healthy adults performed arm ergometry at 15 W, 30 W, and 45 W on a stability ball and a chair in a randomized order.
• Measurements included open-circuit spirometry, EMG, blood pressure, and heart rate.
• Data were analyzed using ANOVA for repeated measures and paired-t testing.

Main Results:

• Oxygen consumption was 10–16% higher when exercising on the stability ball.
• No significant differences in heart rate or blood pressure were observed between conditions.
• EMG activity of rectus femoris and external oblique muscles was significantly higher on the stability ball.

Conclusions:

• Stability ball use during arm ergometry increases oxygen consumption.
• This increase is associated with greater thigh muscle activation and altered lower leg positioning.
• Stability balls offer a way to enhance exercise intensity without increasing cardiovascular strain.