Form for pikes and tucks on stability ball

[Alhambra]

Cathe

I love the core work on your videos. The core work has made my abs and back strong. This is very important as I have a 2 year old and a 4 year old.
When I do the pikes and tucks (feet on stability ball, arms below shoulders) my lower back hurts. It doesn't hurt on any other core exercise like planks, side planks, etc. I was hoping for form pointers, because I really want to be able to do these exercises and not have to substitute after doing one or two.

 

[amy_b]

1) Have you already tried starting with the ball under a higher part of your body? For ex; Kathy might balance herself with her knees on the ball and you could start off with your thighs on the ball. 2) round out your shoulders and core, almost like you would in a cat stretch. This will help the weight to be more evenly distributed across your core and back. Of course, 3) don't sag. 4) Finally, check your ball size and inflation. I'm kind of new to Cathe, but I'm a longtime gymnastics coach and I love those pikes!

 

[Bobbi]

When you move into your planks, are you pulling your abs in? If you are focusing on getting into position, you might be letting them go. I say kudos to you for getting into position. I have ended up off my ball everytime!
Bobbi "Chick's rule!" http://www.handykult.de/plaudersmilies.de/chicken.gif