Exercise Ball History
In spite of its original name, the "Swiss Ball" was invented in Italy
in 1963 as a toy called the Gymnastik
by an engineer Aquilino Cosani.
Using the Bobath method of stroke/neuro-developmental
rehabilitation, Dr. Elseth Kong and Mary Quinton, an English physical
therapist developed pediatric neurological rehab programs
using the Swiss Ball. Dr. Susan Klein-Vogelbach (a Swiss
Physical
Therapist) incorporated its use into orthopaedic and other medical
areas, postural
re-education and back
rehabilitation.
In the 1980's American physical therapists visiting European clinics
learned of its use and brought this knowledge back to North America;
hence, the name "Swiss
Ball". During the early 1990s, the exercise ball moved from
the rehabilitation setting into the athletic arena and now is prominent
in the fitness world. The fitness industry being as it is, is
always on the look out for new and innovative ways to keep its
clientele interested and began stocking its gyms with balls, started a
new "trend" in core
strengthening.
These days balls are used by physical
therapists, athletic trainers, coaches and other health professionals
for exercising,
sitting,
stretching, specific
sports training, and much more.
For information on Physical Therapy go to the Greatlakes
Physiotherapy Centre's Website.