Are you looking for a great and inexpensive way to develop ankle strength and mobility?!
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I too, like you have suffered from poor ankle mobility, and still do, more on one foot than the other.
My range of motion seems temperamental, and that is because my practice is not what it should be, but its not easy, when there are only a few exercises that directly focus on creating a strong ankle, I often overlook them.
in this review we will take a look at the Balance board by Amazon.
Link to the Balance Board Here:
amzn.to/2tTVCLR
While this is not cutting edge, it is one of the best tools you can use for developing balance, ankle strength and better proprioception.
First Impressions:
Available in 4 colors, I chose this in black and I couldn’t be more pleased, I like a simple aesthetic and this board with a non-slip tape in teardrop segments similar to a “Simon Says game”
The board is a laminated circular wood disk, balanced perfectly on a domed plastic base allowing for up to
20 degrees of tilt in any direction.
And rated to handle up to 265lbs
This a well designed balance board, it is neutral without any adjustment.
Allowing you to train at the drop of a hat.
Whether at your desk at work, gym or in your home, this is a great tool for staying active engaging your full focus and developing core longevity attributes of core strength, coordination, posture, and balance.
You know I love some foot health, but this tool can go beyond lower body focus, you can incorporate pushups and planks into the uses of this board.
As a warning, I do not advocate carrying load, while attempting to use the board, I find it, not only dangerous, but unable to transfer into every day movements.
I think you will it a challenge, especially if you are creative, without any added weight at all.
Their favorable features are that:
The Board is Solid and the non stick surface was flawless and was grippy, but not abrasive to my bare feet.
Easy Balance - some balance boards come in 2 pieces, making initial setup a juggle, this is a no brainer.
The disk style allows for me to train all directions of the ankle joint and the corresponding muscles.
Whether 2 feet or one at a time, this board gives many options on what you can focus on.
Just start with a 2 foot balance, once you have established balance, attempt to touch down laterally while maintaining your balance, and then the next side, like skiing a slalom, then do that from front to back….. These basic moves should also be tried with a single leg,
What I didn't like:
the plastic base of the board is very slippery and slides around too much on carpet. You need a rubber mat or something with grip to use it on.
Summary (In Closing):
Great alternative to pricey boards, that can cost up to $100, this balance board cost me $20 and I believe it is worth it.
From Rehab, to strength and mobility development, I find this a useful tool for any runner or someone engaged in sport.
We are seeing countless ankle injuries amongst professional athletes, and while you may not be competing at their level, we should understand that the ankle is rarely trained amongst everyone and a well developed sturdy ankle will make your every move better.
Link to the Balance Board Here:
amzn.to/2tTVCLR
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