Five must-have fitness props that make a difference

For less than $20, you can get your hands on some fitness props that are great support aids if you’re rehabbing an injury, or want to mix up your workout.

It doesn’t take much to keep active, and with my injury, I’ve been learning how to modify exercises and discovering new patterns of movement to protect my joints and ligaments.

I’ve had to scale back my high intensity workouts and  while running is still months away, I’ve found ways to still keep moving, while being more stationary.

I’ve ramped up my use of fitness props, and wanted to share with you why they’re on my must-have list.

Yoga block

When used in a yoga class, a yoga block is a great prop to support you in certain poses, like bridges or waterfall (legs in the air, back flat on the mat). I like to use the block while working on my core – in crunches reaching into the air, or passing from hands to feet in an extended abdominal curl.

Gliding discs

These are great for knee injuries to support heel slides, but they can offer so much more. They are perfect for mountain climbers to avoid the impact of jumping legs in and out, and great for controlled balance activities. One of my favourites includes standing with one foot flat on the ground, the other on the disc. Bend at the knees and slide your disc leg out parallel and draw back up to standing to work your adductor muscles and keep that hip joint working well.

Resistance bands – loop and open variety

Resistance bands are awesome for muscle activation, isolation and strength and have been my steady go-to when I don’t want to lift weights. Slide them over your knees for clams and hip bridges while lying on the floor, or use standing in crab walks to target hamstrings, inner thighs and glutes. I like to use open bands for upper body work targeting shoulders, triceps and upper back.

Trigger ball

This little gem is worth every cent you pay, though my physio gave me one for free! Perfect for myofascial release and getting into those tricky spots like that meaty part just under you shoulder blade or the pesky glute med that everyone forgets about. While not a fitness aid to use during a workout, it’s essential in my mind for post workout recovery.

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Stay injury free my friends!
Maryanne K