1. Improving Your Flexibility and Balance Alexa Appignani

2. Why is Flexibility Important?  According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM): Tight muscles = pain or difficulty in simple, everyday tasks.

3. Why Is Balance Important?  ACSM states, “Poor balance is known to increase risk of falling in older people as well as affect sports performance in younger individuals.”

4. Goal  To inform audience about unique equipment to increase balance and flexibility in clients.

5. Bosu Ball Cost: $120+ Description: Latex free burst resistant material holds up to 350 lbs. Weighs less than 14 lbs. Measures 25" in diameter and 12" high when fully inflated Purpose: To improve balance Use/Value: The BOSU Exercise Ball is a versatile training device for balance, core stability and proprioception training Buy it Here: http://www.performbetter.com/web app/wcs/stores/servlet/Product2_101 51_10751_1003510_- 1_1000532_1000501_1000501_Product DisplayErrorView http://www.performbetter.com/web app/wcs/stores/servlet/Product2_101 51_10751_1003510_- 1_1000532_1000501_1000501_Product DisplayErrorView

6. Stability Balls Cost: $25-$75 Description:An air-filled ball constructed of elastic PVC which measure 35 to 85 cm Purpose: To improve balance and range of motion by developing intramuscular coordination. Use/Value: Can be used in a variety of ways to focus on balance and increasing difficulty in exercises. Buy it here: Any sporting good store or online at www.dickssportinggoods.comwww.dickssportinggoods.com

7. Stretch-Rite  Cost:$30.00  Description:ergonomically designed handgrips that allow you to stretch comfortably, increase your range of motion in stages and visually monitor your progress.  Purpose: To improve Flexibility  Use/Value:The StretchRite gives you a safer, more effective way to improve flexibility and get total body relief for sore tight muscles.  http://www.healthmegamall.com/prodVi ew-Stretch-Rite_c11444_p235762.htm http://www.healthmegamall.com/prodVi ew-Stretch-Rite_c11444_p235762.htm

8. The Stretch Cage  Cost: $2000-$2500+  Description: Revolutionary equipment that provides a natural approach to flexibility training  Purpose: The revolutionary TRUE Stretch provides a dedicated, self-contained stretching area that allows users a safe platform for comprehensive stretching to increase flexibility and reduce the risk of injury  Use/Value: TRUE Stretch eliminates the need for floor-based stretching or leaning uncomfortably over other equipment or an exercise ball.  Buy it Here: http://www.gymsource.com/true- stretch- cage?gdftrk=gdfV27640_a_7c1255_a_7c3158_a_7c TRU_d_STRETCH&gclid=CJ2N8cKDrboCFZSk4Aodpg 8AXQhttp://www.gymsource.com/true- stretch- cage?gdftrk=gdfV27640_a_7c1255_a_7c3158_a_7c TRU_d_STRETCH&gclid=CJ2N8cKDrboCFZSk4Aodpg 8AXQ

9. Mayo Clinic Software  Simple balance and stretching exercises to work on at home with little to no equipment http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ba lance-exercises/SM00049&slide=6

10. Conclusion  These tools will allow for a well rounded facility without JUST weight training equipment  Cheap and effective equipment will be a positive asset to invest in  Unique designs will make for a more engaged clientele

11. References  http://www.acsm.org/access-public- information/articles/2012/02/02/improving -your-flexibility-and-balance http://www.acsm.org/access-public- information/articles/2012/02/02/improving -your-flexibility-and-balance